Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooked Ribs Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that combines convenience with mouthwatering flavor, you’ll love this slow cooked ribs recipe.
I can’t get enough of how effortlessly it transforms simple ingredients into a tender, fall-off-the-bone delight. The best part? You can set it and forget it!
Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. The aroma that fills your kitchen is irresistible, making it hard to wait.
Plus, the sweet and tangy sauce takes these ribs to a whole new level, ensuring they’ll be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy!
Ingredients of Slow Cooked Ribs
When it comes to making delicious slow cooked ribs, having the right ingredients is a must. But don’t worry—these ingredients are pretty simple and easy to find. You might even have some of them in your pantry already! Just gather everything you need, and you’ll be on your way to a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Let’s plunge into the list of ingredients you’ll need for this tasty dish.
- 4 lbs country-style boneless pork ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup Catalina dressing
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/4 cup cold water
Now, let’s talk a bit about the ingredients. The country-style boneless pork ribs are the star of the show—trust me, they’re going to be super tender and flavorful after cooking all day!
The barbecue sauce and Catalina dressing create a unique sweet and tangy flavor that dances on your taste buds. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even swap out the barbecue sauce for a different flavor or add some spice with a dash of hot sauce.
And don’t underestimate the power of garlic; it just brings everything together. Finally, the flour and cold water help thicken up the sauce, giving it that perfect consistency to drizzle over the ribs.
How to Make Slow Cooked Ribs
Making slow cooked ribs is easier than you might think, and it’s a perfect way to impress your family or friends without spending all day in the kitchen.
First things first, take those 4 lbs of country-style boneless pork ribs and cut them into serving-size pieces. This makes it easier to serve later, and let’s be honest, nobody wants to wrestle with a gigantic hunk of meat at the dinner table.
Once you’ve got those ribs prepped, toss them right into your 5-quart slow cooker. It’s like giving them a cozy little home for the next several hours—no complaints from them, I assure you.
Next up, let’s get saucy. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of barbecue sauce with 1 cup of Catalina dressing. Now, I know what you might be thinking—Catalina dressing? Really? But trust me, it adds a delightful tang that pairs beautifully with the sweet barbecue sauce.
Pour this mixture over the ribs, and sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of minced garlic. Ah, garlic—the magical ingredient that makes everything better.
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low, letting it work its magic for about 6 to 7 hours. You can go about your day, but the tantalizing aroma wafting through the house will remind you that something delicious is on the way!
Once the time is up and the meat is fork-tender, carefully remove the ribs and keep them warm—maybe wrap them in foil like a cozy blanket.
Now, let’s turn our attention to that cooking liquid. Strain it into a saucepan, skimming off any excess fat like a pro.
Combine 2 tablespoons of flour with 1/4 cup of cold water until smooth, and stir this into the strained liquid. Bring it to a boil, and watch as it thickens up in just a couple of minutes. It’s so satisfying to see it transform.
Finally, drizzle that luscious sauce over the ribs, and voilà—your slow cooked ribs are ready to be devoured. Just try not to drool too much as you serve them. Enjoy!
Slow Cooked Ribs Substitutions & Variations
Curious about how you can mix things up with your slow cooked ribs? I love experimenting with different flavors!
Instead of barbecue sauce, try teriyaki or a spicy chili sauce for a kick. You can also swap the Catalina dressing for a zesty Italian dressing to change things up.
For a smoky flavor, add some liquid smoke or smoked paprika. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some sliced onions or peppers for extra texture.
Don’t forget about using beef ribs or even chicken wings for a twist on the classic. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and enjoy!
What to Serve with Slow Cooked Ribs
Serving slow cooked ribs is all about complementing their rich flavors and tender texture.
I love to pair them with classic sides like creamy coleslaw and buttery cornbread, which add a nice crunch and sweetness. A tangy potato salad also works well, balancing the richness of the ribs.
Grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad can brighten the plate, while baked beans bring that hearty comfort food vibe.
For drinks, I often serve a cold beer or iced tea, enhancing the laid-back feel of the meal.
These combinations make every bite of those ribs even more enjoyable!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing slow cooked ribs can seem straightforward, a few additional tips can elevate your dish to the next level.
First, I recommend marinating the ribs overnight in the barbecue sauce for deeper flavor. If you like a kick, add a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Also, consider using a mix of sauces—try adding honey or apple cider vinegar for a unique twist.
Don’t rush the cooking process; low and slow is key for tender meat.
Finally, always let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving to retain the juices.
Enjoy your delicious, mouthwatering ribs!