First, you’ll need to choose the right ribs. Baby back ribs, St. Louis-style ribs, and spare ribs all work well in a slow cooker.
To prepare the ribs for cooking, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This can be done by starting at one corner and using a paper towel to grip and pull the membrane off the back of the ribs. This will help the meat absorb the flavors of the sauce while cooking.
Next, create a delicious sauce for the ribs. This can be made from scratch or by using a pre-made barbecue sauce. Some people like to use a combination of ketchup, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce and apple cider vinegar. Mix the sauce together in a bowl, and set it aside for later.
Now it’s time to season the ribs. Sprinkle your favorite dry rub over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly on both sides. You can use a simple rub made of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt, or experiment with other blends.
Once you have seasoned the ribs, you can begin adding them to the slow cooker. Place the ribs inside the pot, making sure not to overcrowd them. Pour the sauce over the ribs, making sure it is evenly distributed.
Set the slow cooker on low heat and cover it tightly. Allow the ribs to cook for at least six hours. The longer you allow the ribs to cook, the more tender they will become. If you are in a rush, you can also cook the ribs on high for four hours.
After the ribs have cooked for the appropriate amount of time, you can remove them from the slow cooker. If you prefer crispy ribs, you can place them on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes. This step is optional.
Finally, you can serve the ribs with your favorite sides. Coleslaw, mac and cheese, and baked beans are all classic options that pair well with ribs.
In conclusion, cooking ribs in a slow cooker is a great way to get tender and flavorful meat without any fuss. Whether you’re preparing for a barbecue or simply want to impress your family, this is a foolproof method for delicious ribs. Just remember to choose the right ribs, prepare a delicious sauce, season them well, and set the slow cooker on low heat for several hours. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be able to create perfectly cooked ribs every time.