In a bowl, combine vinegar, soy sauce, bay leaves and chili and set aside.
Season ribs with 1 teaspoon salt. Using a mortar and pestle or small food processor, grind remaining teaspoon salt, garlic and peppercorns to a rough paste. Rub paste into ribs and transfer to resealable plastic bag. Pour in vinegar mixture, seal and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight, turning occasionally.
Transfer ribs and marinade to a pot, bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, 1 hour, until meat is tender. Remove ribs to a baking sheet and simmer sauce until thick.
Meanwhile, preheat broiler. Pour 1/4 cup of thickened sauce over ribs, turn to coat, and broil until nicely browned, about 7 minutes, turning once. Serve with remaining sauce and rice.
