Traditional Slow Cooked Ribs

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 8 hours
🍽 Serves: 4
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There's something about slow-cooked ribs that just feels like a warm hug. This recipe promises fall-off-the-bone tenderness with a rich, caramelized finish that makes these traditional ribs a true comfort food classic.

Ingredients for Traditional Slow Cooked Ribs

The star of the show is, of course, the pork ribs. Their marbling ensures they become juicy and tender as they cook slowly. Our homemade spice rub, featuring brown sugar, adds a sweet note that balances the savory spices like paprika, which gives a subtle smokiness, and garlic powder and onion powder for a savory depth. A touch of salt and black pepper enhances all these flavors, while cayenne pepper brings a hint of heat. The apple cider vinegar not only helps tenderize the meat but also adds a tangy edge that cuts through the richness. Finally, barbecue sauce is the finishing touch, offering a sticky, sweet glaze.

Tips & Tricks

  • Removing the membrane from the ribs ensures they cook evenly and lets the flavors penetrate better.
  • For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce before brushing it on the ribs.
  • If you like a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper to a full teaspoon.

Serving Suggestions

These ribs are fantastic with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled corn on the cob. For a more substantial meal, pair with baked beans or a fresh garden salad. A cold, crisp apple cider or a chilled beer complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use beef ribs instead of pork?
Yes, you can substitute beef ribs, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time to achieve the same tenderness.
What if I don't have a slow cooker?
You can bake them in a covered roasting pan at 275°F for 3-4 hours instead. Just keep an eye on them to make sure they don't dry out.
Can I make these ribs ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cook the ribs, refrigerate, and reheat them in the oven with the BBQ sauce just before serving.

Traditional Slow Cooked Ribs Recipe Walkthrough

First, prep the ribs by removing the tough membrane from the back. This part can be a little tricky, but once you get a corner lifted with a knife, you can usually pull it off in one go. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to ensure the spice rub adheres better.

Next, mix up your spice rub. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this mixture all over the ribs, making sure every nook and cranny is covered. This is where the flavor magic starts!

Now, stand the ribs upright in your slow cooker, leaning them against the sides. Pour the apple cider vinegar into the bottom of the slow cooker. This will help keep the ribs moist as they cook. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. You'll know they're ready when the meat is tender and nearly falling off the bone.

About 30 minutes before the ribs are done, preheat your oven to 400°F. Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet. Brush them generously with barbecue sauce. Pop them in the oven and let them bake for 10 to 15 minutes. This step caramelizes the sauce, giving you that irresistible sticky finish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly slow-cooked for unbeatable tenderness.
  • Richly flavored with a custom spice rub that brings depth.
  • Simple to prep with minimal active cooking time.
  • Ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

4 lbs pork ribs
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and pat them dry.
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the ribs.
4. Place ribs in the slow cooker, standing them up against the sides of the pot.
5. Pour apple cider vinegar into the slow cooker.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until ribs are tender.
7. Preheat oven to 400°F.
8. Remove ribs from slow cooker and place on a baking sheet.
9. Brush generously with barbecue sauce.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the sauce caramelizes.
11. Serve hot with additional barbecue sauce if desired.

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