Dive into a world of tender, juicy ribs bursting with smoky barbecue goodness with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for busy days when you crave a satisfying meal without the fuss, these BBQ country style ribs will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Let your slow cooker do the work as you indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of fall-off-the-bone pork. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 pounds boneless country-style pork ribs
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bottle BBQ sauce (18 ounce bottle)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ribs:
- Season the pork ribs generously with salt and black pepper.
- Place the ribs in the slow cooker.
- Add Flavor:
- Pour the liquid smoke over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar over the ribs, followed by the diced onion.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
- Finish with BBQ Sauce:
- Once the ribs are cooked, pour the BBQ sauce over them, covering them entirely.
- Let the ribs cook for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Remove the ribs from the slow cooker and serve hot, garnished with extra BBQ sauce if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Charred and Crispy: For a caramelized finish, transfer the ribs to a preheated grill or broiler for a few minutes after cooking in the slow cooker. This will give them a delicious char and crispy texture.
- Tangy Twist: Experiment with different flavors of BBQ sauce, such as honey mustard, hickory smoke, or spicy chipotle, to customize the taste according to your preferences.
- Herbaceous Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by adding dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika to the seasoning mix for an extra layer of complexity.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Substitute the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener to reduce the carb content while maintaining the sweetness of the dish.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Opt for a sugar-free BBQ sauce or make your own low-carb version using tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and a blend of spices to control the carb intake without sacrificing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use bone-in country-style ribs instead? A: Yes, bone-in ribs can be used in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in ribs may require slightly longer to cook compared to boneless ribs.
Q: Can I prepare the ribs ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can season the ribs and store them in the refrigerator overnight before placing them in the slow cooker the next day for added convenience.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Yes, leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave or oven.
Q: What can I serve with BBQ country-style ribs? A: These ribs pair well with classic BBQ sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or potato salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
With minimal effort and maximum flavor, these easy slow cooker BBQ country style ribs are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, these tender and succulent ribs will steal the show. Customize them to your taste preferences and dietary needs, and watch as they disappear from the dinner table in no time. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade deliciousness with this irresistible recipe!
