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Slow Cooker Barbecue Pork Loin Ribs
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One reason we love using the slow cooker for ribs is that there is no grilling or basting involved. Just add the ingredients and before you know it you have ribs so tender they fall off the bone.
serves/makes:
ready in:
over 5 hrs
over 5 hrs
5 reviews
3 comments
ingredients
Ribs
4 pounds pork loin back ribs or pork spareribs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh garlic
2 medium onions, sliced
Barbecue Sauce
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 cup prepared mustard, yellow or Dijon
1 bottle (14 ounce size) ketchup
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
directions
Cut the ribs into 2-rib portions. Season with the salt and pepper on all sides. Place in the crock pot.
Top the ribs with the garlic and sliced onions.
Combine all the ingredients for the barbecue sauce in a bowl. Mix well. Pour evenly over the ribs.
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 5-7 hours or until the ribs are tender.
crock pot notes
Crock pots/slow cookers all heat differently. There is no standard among manufacturers. Cooking times are suggested guidelines based on our testing. Please adjust cooking times and temps to work with your brand and model of slow cooker.recipe tips
For a sweeter barbecue sauce, add more brown sugar or a bit of honey.
If you prefer a tangier sauce, increase the amount of apple cider vinegar.
Letting the ribs rest for a few minutes after cooking makes them easier to handle and serve.
Serve the ribs with extra barbecue sauce on the side for those who love their ribs saucy.
Pair these ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a complete meal.
Remember to check the ribs periodically towards the end of cooking to make sure they don't overcook, especially if your slow cooker runs hot.
common recipe questions
Can I use a different type of ribs for this recipe?
You can use pork spareribs or even beef ribs, but cooking times may vary based on the type and size of the ribs.
Can I brown the ribs before slow cooking?
While not required, browning the ribs in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker can add a deeper flavor.
Can I make the barbecue sauce spicier?
Add more chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapenos to increase the heat if desired.
How can I tell when the ribs are done cooking?
The ribs are done when the meat is tender and easily separates from the bone.
Can I cook the ribs on high for a shorter time?
You can cook them on high for about 3-4 hours, but low and slow cooking usually yields more tender ribs. High heat sometimes makes them more tough. If you want to speed up the cooking time, cook them on high for 1 hour then switch to low for 3-4 hours.
Is the liquid smoke necessary?
Liquid smoke adds a smoky flavor, mimicking a grill. If you don't have it, the ribs will still be tasty, but you'll miss the smoky element.
What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar?
You can use white vinegar or lemon juice for a similar acidic flavor.
Can I prepare the barbecue sauce in advance?
You can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How can I thicken the barbecue sauce if it's too thin after cooking?
Remove the ribs and simmer the sauce in a saucepan until is thickened as desired.
Is it possible to overcook the ribs in a slow cooker?
While slow cookers are forgiving, excessively long cooking times can make the ribs too soft and mushy or cooking too long on high heat can make them tough and chewy.
tools needed
Slow Cooker: The hero of this recipe, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting (or should we say, slow cooking) to transform tough ribs into tender, fall-off-the-bone perfection without the need for grilling or basting.
Sharp Knife: To cut the ribs into 2-rib portions, allowing for easier serving and eating.
Cutting Board: A stable surface for cutting the ribs without damaging your countertops.
Tongs: Handy for transferring the ribs from the cutting board to the slow cooker.
Bowl: To mix together all the ingredients for the mouth-watering barbecue sauce that will infuse flavor into the ribs during the slow cooking process.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring out the ingredients for the seasonings and barbecue sauce.
Spatula: For mixing the barbecue sauce ingredients thoroughly until all the flavors are well incorporated
what goes with it?
Coleslaw: the crunchy, tangy coleslaw will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and tender ribs.
Cornbread: the slightly sweet cornbread will soak up the BBQ sauce beautifully
Baked Beans: the creamy, savory baked beans will add a hearty element to your meal and complement the smoky flavors of the ribs.
beverage pairings
Wine Pairings
Zinfandel: Zinfandel's bold flavors, with hints of blackberry and plum, can stand up to the rich, savory flavors of these barbecue ribs. Look for a bottle with a bit of spice to play off the ribs' smoky goodness.
Merlot: A smooth, fruit-forward Merlot can provide a nice contrast to the tangy barbecue sauce, while still complementing the juicy, tender ribs. Aim for a bottle with notes of cherry and plum for a delightful pairing.
Cabernet Sauvignon: If you prefer a bolder wine, a Cabernet Sauvignon with its dark fruit flavors and firm tannins can stand up to the richness of the ribs. Look for one with a hint of oakiness to enhance the smoky notes of the barbecue sauce.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Brown Ale: The malty sweetness and nutty undertones of a brown ale can complement the caramelized flavors of the barbecue sauce while balancing out the savory ribs. Look for one with a slightly roasted finish.
Whiskey Sour: The tartness of a whiskey sour can cut through the richness of the barbecue sauce, while the sweet, citrusy notes can enhance the flavors of the ribs. It's a classic cocktail that pairs perfectly with this hearty dish.
Hard Cider: A crisp, refreshing hard cider can provide a nice contrast to the smoky, savory flavors of the ribs, while the natural sweetness of the cider can balance out the tanginess of the barbecue sauce. Look for a dry cider for a more adult-friendly pairing.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Root Beer: The complex flavors of root beer, with hints of vanilla, sarsaparilla, and spices, can enhance the sweetness of the barbecue sauce while providing a refreshing accompaniment to the savory ribs.
Sweet Tea: The Southern classic of sweet tea can provide a soothing, sweet balance to the tangy barbecue sauce, while the slight bitterness of the tea can cut through the richness of the ribs.
Hibiscus Iced Tea: For a floral twist, try pairing hibiscus iced tea with these barbecue ribs. The natural tartness of hibiscus can complement the smoky flavors of the ribs while adding a refreshing, fruity note.
nutrition data
1053 calories, 73 grams fat, 49 grams carbohydrates, 51 grams protein per serving.
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reviews & comments
How long for 3lbs spareribs
One pound of ribs isn't going to alter the cook time much. I'd cook it the same amount of time but maybe check it 30 minutes earlier than you would otherwise.
January 30, 2014
BEST RIBS EVER!!!!! FALL OFF THE BONE GOOD!!!!!
October 25, 2013
Even my picky husband loved this recipe
January 21, 2012
When I was done making the b'b'q sauce, I knew just by tasting the sauce the ribs would be amazing! I, did, however, mix carrots and potatoes in the slow cooker. Wow, what a fantastic meal!
May 29, 2011
My family of 9 loved this recipe. The sauce is easy to make and fantastic!
Family loved it; took several servings. Left out the chili because grandchildren do not like peppery dishes
May 26, 2009
Very good flavor. Plenty of liquid/sauce but not very thick. I laddled most out at the end of cooking and thickened it on the stove with a simple rue.
The sauce was great, and I'll be using that again. But it didn't make enough to cover the ribs well. There didn't seem to be enough moisture in the cooker, so the ribs came out kinda dry. Next time, I'll skip the onions (didn't really add much flavor) and double the sauce, and layer it as ribs/sauce/ribs/sauce.
Check your slow cooker lid to make sure it fits tightly. A properly working slow cooker will create enough liquid to keep the meat from drying out.