Tender Crockpot Barbecue Ribs

Introduction: Get ready to savor the fall-off-the-bone goodness of our Tender Crockpot Barbecue Ribs. This slow-cooked dish delivers perfectly tender ribs, coated in a rich, homemade barbecue sauce, all without the hassle of grilling. By using a crockpot, you can enjoy a healthier version of this classic comfort food that’s lower in fat but still packed with flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or backyard gathering!

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs pork baby back ribs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought, low-sugar option)

For the Homemade Barbecue Sauce (Optional):

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ribs:
   • Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for better tenderness.
   • In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
2. Arrange in Crockpot:
   • Place the ribs in the crockpot, standing them upright if necessary to fit. Pour the apple cider vinegar over the ribs to tenderize them as they cook.
3. Cook Low and Slow:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the ribs are tender and the meat pulls away from the bone easily.
4. Make the Barbecue Sauce (Optional):
   • In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, honey or maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Coat and Broil:
   • Once the ribs are fully cooked, preheat your oven’s broiler. Carefully remove the ribs from the crockpot and place them on a baking sheet.
   • Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the ribs. Broil for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce caramelizes and becomes slightly crispy on the edges.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the ribs hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side, along with your favorite sides like coleslaw or cornbread.

Health Benefits:

• Lean Protein: Pork ribs are a good source of lean protein, especially when prepared without deep frying or excessive oil.
• Lower Sugar Option: Using a homemade barbecue sauce allows for control over sugar content, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought versions.
• Reduced Fat: Cooking the ribs in a crockpot eliminates the need for added fats, resulting in a lower-fat meal compared to traditional grilling or frying.

Conclusion: Our Tender Crockpot Barbecue Ribs offer all the flavor and indulgence you crave, with a healthier approach that keeps the dish light without sacrificing taste. Perfectly slow-cooked and caramelized with a tangy barbecue sauce, these ribs are sure to be a hit at your next meal.