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These pork ribs simmered low and slow with a tangy BBQ sauce and smoky spices turn into a cozy, hearty treat. The slow cooking melts the meat off the bones, making every bite full of deep, rich flavor with very little effort.
I found this dish when I was craving that BBQ flavor without firing up a grill. It quickly became my favorite for relaxed weekends and casual dinners.
Needed Ingredients
- Pork ribs: 2 pounds, baby back ribs work great for tender meat and just enough fat
- Barbecue sauce: 1 cup, pick a style you like whether sweet, smoky, or spicy
- Garlic powder: 2 teaspoons adds a savory punch but fresh garlic works if you prefer
- Onion powder: 2 teaspoons brings a subtle sweetness that pairs well with smoked paprika
- Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon for that deep smoky aroma without actual smoking
- Salt and black pepper: 1 teaspoon salt plus ½ teaspoon black pepper for balanced seasoning, adjust to your taste
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons to brighten the flavor and tenderize the meat a bit
- Tip: Look for ribs with smooth texture and enough fat for juicy results
Step-by-Step Cooking
I like to throw in a drop of liquid smoke sometimes especially when it’s cold outside to boost that smoky vibe. One time I took these ribs to a family get-together and everyone loved how juicy and tasty they were— all without grill marks! It felt great serving up that big barbecue taste with just a slow cooker.
Storing Leftovers
Ingredient Swaps
Great Side Ideas
Every time I whip up these ribs I’m reminded how just a handful of simple ingredients plus some patience can turn into a memorable meal. It’s a fantastic way to bring friends and family together without stressing over tricky cooking but still delivering that classic barbecue goodness.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → What's the best way to peel off the membrane from pork ribs?
Slide a knife under the thin layer on the ribs' back, then lift it up. Grab it with a paper towel to pull it off fully, which helps make the ribs more tender.
- → Can I change the cooking time for different slow cooker settings?
Definitely. You can cook ribs on high for 3-4 hours or go low for 6-8 hours. Cooking them low and slow usually makes them softer.
- → Where does that smoky taste in the ribs come from?
The spice mix has smoked paprika giving that warm smoky flavor. If you want, a bit of liquid smoke adds even more smoke flavor.
- → How can I get sticky ribs at the end?
After the slow cook, paint on some extra barbecue sauce and put the ribs under a broiler for 5 minutes until they get bubbly and sticky.
- → What temperature should the ribs reach so they’re done right?
When ribs hit 190-200°F (88-93°C) inside, they’re juicy and tender and cooked just right.