Welcome to a journey of flavor with our Tender BBQ Pork Ribs recipe. This dish promises fall-off-the-bone goodness with a fuss-free method that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a cozy weekend meal or an outdoor gathering, these ribs are sure to impress.
Let’s break down what makes these ribs so special. The base of our flavoring starts with a spice rub. First, we have pork ribs, the star of the show. Opt for meaty ribs for the best results. The BBQ sauce brings in a sweet, tangy finish that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Apple cider vinegar is our secret weapon for tenderizing the meat while imparting a subtle tartness. Our dry rub includes brown sugar for sweetness and caramelization, smoked paprika for that irresistible smoky aroma, garlic powder and onion powder for savory depth, and salt and black pepper to enhance all those flavors.
These ribs pair wonderfully with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, cornbread, or a light, zesty salad. For a touch of indulgence, serve with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. A cold beer or a refreshing iced tea can complete the meal perfectly.
First things first, you'll want to prepare your ribs. Turn them bone-side up and use a small knife to loosen the thin silver skin membrane. It can be a bit tricky, but once you get an edge, just use a paper towel to grip and peel it off. This step is crucial for getting that tender meat we love.
Next, grab a small bowl and mix together your spice rub: brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Once combined, rub this mixture all over the ribs. Be generous here—this is where a lot of your flavor comes from.
Now it's time to set up your slow cooker. Stand the ribs up against the walls of the cooker, curved side facing outward. This allows the heat to circulate evenly. Pour in the apple cider vinegar, which will help tenderize the meat as it cooks.
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low. Let the ribs cook for 6 to 8 hours. You'll know they’re done when the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bones.
Once your ribs are cooked, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully transfer the ribs to a baking sheet. Be gentle—they're going to be quite tender! Brush them generously with BBQ sauce. This step is where the magic happens as you bake them for 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize into a sticky, flavorful coating.
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