Savory Slow Cooker Apple Cider Ribs

Name: Savory Slow Cooker Apple Cider Ribs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 lbs pork ribs; 2 cups apple cider; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; Salt to taste

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 7 hours

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

Be the First to Review!

Welcome to a cozy culinary experience with these Savory Slow Cooker Apple Cider Ribs. This recipe transforms simple pork ribs into a tender, flavor-packed dish that's perfect for any season but especially comforting in the fall.

Save Print Jump to Recipe

Ingredients for Savory Slow Cooker Apple Cider Ribs

Pork ribs are the star of this dish, becoming incredibly tender as they cook. The apple cider infuses the ribs with a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the meat. Adding apple cider vinegar helps tenderize the ribs while enhancing the cider's flavor. Brown sugar adds a touch of molasses-like richness that caramelizes beautifully under the broiler. Soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce bring depth and umami to the dish. Garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper add layers of flavor, while a hint of cayenne pepper delivers a gentle kick. Don't forget to season with salt to taste!

Tips & Tricks

If your ribs are too fatty, trim some fat before seasoning for a leaner dish.
For extra flavor, marinate the ribs overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ribs are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F.

Serving Suggestions

These ribs pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. A side of tangy coleslaw can add a refreshing crunch. For a complete meal, serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use beef ribs instead of pork ribs?: Absolutely! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
What if I don't have a slow cooker?: You can braise the ribs in a Dutch oven at 300°F for about 3 hours.
Can I freeze leftover ribs?: Yes, wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Savory Slow Cooker Apple Cider Ribs Recipe Walkthrough

Start by patting your pork ribs dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick and the ribs brown better later on. Sprinkle them with salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper, rubbing the spices in to coat the meat evenly.

Next, grab a mixing bowl and create the marinade. Pour in the apple cider, then add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Toss in the minced garlic and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir everything until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well combined.

Place your seasoned ribs into the slow cooker. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring they're well-coated. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the ribs cook for about 6-7 hours until they're fork-tender.

When the ribs are nearly done, preheat your oven broiler. Carefully transfer the cooked ribs to a baking sheet. Brush them with some of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker to keep them moist.

Slide the baking sheet under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them so they don't burn. You're looking for a nice caramelized top. Once done, serve them warm, possibly garnished with some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Uses a slow cooker for effortless cooking and tender results.
Apple cider adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
Perfect for gatherings or a hearty family meal.
Minimal hands-on time required—let your slow cooker do the work!

Ingredients

3 lbs pork ribs

2 cups apple cider

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Salt to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Pat the ribs dry and season with salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper to create the marinade.

3. Place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour the marinade over them ensuring they are well-coated.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the ribs are tender.

5. Once cooked, preheat your oven broiler.

6. Carefully transfer ribs to a baking sheet and brush with some of the cooking liquid.