Description
Tender and flavorful slow-cooked ribs, perfect for busy nights and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 2 racks of pork ribs (about 3–4 lb total; baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (substitute lemon juice or white vinegar if needed)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark; honey or maple syrup can be swapped in)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika OK)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the membrane: slide a small knife under the thin silver skin on the bone side. Grab it with a paper towel and pull it off.
- Season the ribs: pat the ribs dry. Rub both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar.
- Fit the ribs in the crockpot: if needed, cut each rack into halves so they fit comfortably. Arrange them bone-side down.
- Make the sauce: whisk together the BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Pour evenly over the ribs.
- Cook low: cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours until the meat is tender.
- Optional finish under the broiler: transfer ribs to a baking sheet, brush with extra BBQ sauce, and broil for 5–8 minutes until caramelized.
- Rest and serve: let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing between bones.
Notes
For a spicier profile, add crushed red pepper or chipotle in adobo to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American