Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner routine forever! These Slow Cooker Melt Away Ribs are not just a meal – they're a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender, juicy pork ribs so succulent they literally fall off the bone, infused with a perfect balance of tangy barbecue sauce and subtle sweetness. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that requires almost no effort at all!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the back of the rack using a sharp knife, which helps the seasonings penetrate better.
- Season the ribs generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring even coverage on both sides of the meat.
- Place the seasoned ribs vertically in the slow cooker, standing them up along the inner walls of the cooking vessel.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the ribs, making sure to coat all surfaces of the meat.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat, cooking for 8 hours until the meat is extremely tender and begins to pull away from the bones.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Optional: For a caramelized finish, brush additional barbecue sauce and broil the ribs in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly crispy.
- Slice the ribs between the bones and serve hot with extra sauce on the side.
Tips
- Remove the Membrane: Always take the time to remove the tough membrane from the back of the ribs. This ensures your seasonings penetrate the meat and makes the ribs more tender.
- Layer for Maximum Flavor: Standing the ribs vertically in the slow cooker allows for more even cooking and better sauce distribution.
- Don't Rush the Cooking: The 8-hour slow cook is crucial for breaking down the tough connective tissues, resulting in that melt-away texture.
- For Extra Caramelization: The optional broiling step is a game-changer. Those few minutes under the broiler can add a delightful crispy exterior to your ribs.
- Sauce Matters: Use a high-quality barbecue sauce for the best flavor. Feel free to experiment with different brands or even make your own homemade sauce.
- Let It Rest: Always let the ribs rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 130mg
