Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this incredible slow cooker recipe for country-style pork ribs! Forget tough, chewy ribs – this method guarantees melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. It's one of the best recipes for busy cooks looking for delicious and healthy meals. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, making it a go-to for quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs country-style pork ribs
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite!)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Ribs: Pat the pork ribs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely and develop a deeper flavor.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the pork ribs, chicken broth, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure the ribs are mostly submerged in the liquid.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the ribs are incredibly tender and easily pull apart. The longer they cook, the more tender they become.
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Shred and Serve: Once cooked, remove the ribs from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. You can either return the shredded ribs to the slow cooker to coat them further in the sauce or serve them directly.
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Serve & Enjoy: Serve your delicious country-style pork ribs on their own, on slider buns, or as part of a larger meal. They are fantastic paired with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Extra Delicious Ribs:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the ribs to cook evenly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to customize the spices to your liking. Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a little heat or some brown sugar for extra sweetness.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it on the stovetop after the ribs are cooked, reducing it until it reaches your desired consistency.
Variations:
- Spicy Ribs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the cooking liquid.
- Sweet and Savory Ribs: Increase the amount of brown sugar or add a splash of maple syrup.
- BBQ Rib Rub: For a more intense smoky flavor, try rubbing the ribs with a dry BBQ rub before cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a healthy and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the deliciousness and the ease of this incredible slow cooker recipe!