Description
These St. Louis-style spare ribs are rich, saucy, and fall-off-the-bone tender, thanks to the slow cooker. A quick broil at the end gives them a sticky, caramelized finish.
Ingredients
- 1 package (3–4 lb) St. Louis-style spare ribs
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon mustard powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
Instructions
- Prep the ribs: If desired, place a rack bone-side up and slide a small knife under the membrane. Peel it off using a paper towel. Cut the rack in half.
- Make the sauce/rub: In a bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire, kosher salt, chili powder, mustard powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and onion powder. Reserve 1/4 cup for finishing.
- Season the ribs: Use half of the remaining sauce to rub all over the ribs.
- Load the slow cooker: Stack the ribs in the slow cooker with the meaty side up. Pour the remaining sauce over the ribs.
- Cook: Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours. The ribs are done when the meat is tender.
- Broil and finish: Preheat your oven broiler. Transfer ribs to a baking sheet and brush with the reserved sauce. Broil 2–6 minutes until caramelized.
- Rest and serve: Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes, then cut into portions and serve warm.
Notes
For a smokier flavor, consider adding chipotle chili powder or using hoisin sauce. Adjust the cooking time if using baby back ribs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American