Are you craving a melt-in-your-mouth, incredibly flavorful meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This crock pot boneless country style pork ribs recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy ribs bursting with delicious BBQ flavor are just a few hours away, thanks to the magic of slow cooking. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a truly impressive healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs boneless country-style pork ribs
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ribs: Pat the boneless country-style pork ribs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely and develop a deeper flavor.
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Combine the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
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Marinate (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor, place the ribs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the sauce mixture over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This step significantly enhances the flavor penetration.
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Slow Cook: Place the ribs in your slow cooker. Pour any remaining marinade over the ribs. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the ribs are fork-tender and easily shred.
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Shred and Serve: Once the ribs are cooked through, use two forks to shred them into bite-sized pieces. If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes to thicken it. Serve immediately on buns, over rice, or with your favorite sides.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the ribs to cook evenly.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker and the thickness of the ribs. Check for doneness using a fork; they should easily shred.
- Get creative with BBQ sauce: Experiment with different types of BBQ sauce to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Add vegetables: For a heartier meal, add chopped onions, peppers, or carrots to the slow cooker along with the ribs.
Variations:
- Spicy Ribs: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Sweet and Savory Ribs: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce for a sweeter flavor.
- Citrusy Ribs: Add the zest and juice of one orange or lemon to the sauce for a brighter, tangier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutritional calculator and input your exact ingredients and portion size. However, this recipe generally provides a good source of protein and is relatively lower in fat compared to traditional bone-in ribs.
This crock pot boneless country style pork ribs recipe is a simple, delicious, and healthy way to enjoy a comforting meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Enjoy!