Slow-Cooker Honey Chipotle Pork Ribs

Name: Slow-Cooker Honey Chipotle Pork Ribs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 lbs pork ribs; 1 cup honey; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 7 hours

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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If you're craving tender, flavorful ribs with just the right balance of sweet and spicy, look no further than these Slow-Cooker Honey Chipotle Pork Ribs. This recipe combines the convenience of a slow cooker with a zesty, homemade sauce to create a dish that's sure to impress.

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Ingredients for Slow-Cooker Honey Chipotle Pork Ribs

Pork Ribs: The star of the show, these provide a rich and meaty base. Opt for baby back ribs for a leaner option or spareribs if you prefer something a bit fattier.

Honey: Adds sweetness and helps balance the heat from the chipotle peppers.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Introduces a tangy note that cuts through the richness of the ribs.

Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: These bring the heat and a smoky depth to the sauce. Adjust to taste if you prefer milder ribs.

Tomato Paste: Thickens the sauce and adds a hint of umami.

Smoked Paprika: Enhances the smokiness and color of the sauce.

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These pantry staples add a savory base layer of flavor.

Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the best in all the other ingredients.

Olive Oil: Used for searing, it helps to lock in the flavor and create a nice crust on the ribs.

Tips & Tricks

For extra flavor, marinate the ribs in the sauce overnight in the fridge before cooking.
If you like a crispier finish, broil the ribs in the oven for a few minutes after slow cooking.
Use a slotted spoon to handle the ribs—they'll be tender and may fall apart easily.

Serving Suggestions

These ribs pair beautifully with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh corn salad. For a more filling meal, serve them with mashed potatoes or cornbread. A cool, crisp beer or a tangy lemonade would complement the flavors nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless ribs?: Yes, boneless ribs can be used, but they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them.
How spicy are these ribs?: The heat level is moderate. Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers for less or more heat.
Can I make these ribs in the oven?: Absolutely! Bake them at 300°F for about 2.5-3 hours, covered, then uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes.

Slow-Cooker Honey Chipotle Pork Ribs Recipe Walkthrough

Start by mixing up your sauce. In a small bowl, combine the honey, apple cider vinegar, chipotle peppers, tomato paste, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and you have a smooth sauce.

Next, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, sear the pork ribs on both sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side, just enough to get a good brown crust.

Transfer the seared ribs to your slow cooker. Pour the honey chipotle sauce over the ribs, making sure they're well coated. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for 6-7 hours until the ribs are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.

When the ribs are done, carefully remove them from the slow cooker. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Effortless slow-cooker magic: minimal prep, maximum flavor.
Sweet and spicy sauce that's a flavor bomb in every bite.
Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs done right.
Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

3 lbs pork ribs

1 cup honey

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tbsp smoked paprika

2 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix the honey, apple cider vinegar, chipotle peppers, tomato paste, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

2. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sear the pork ribs on both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.

3. Place the seared ribs in the slow cooker and pour the honey chipotle sauce over them, making sure to coat the ribs evenly.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the ribs are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.

5. Once cooked, remove the ribs from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

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