Are you looking for a mouth-watering, fall-off-the-bone country style ribs recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering? Look no further! This slow cooker country style ribs recipe is a game-changer, and we’re excited to share it with you.
What are Country Style Ribs?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about what country style ribs are. Country style ribs are a type of pork rib that’s cut from the shoulder or loin area of the pig. They’re meatier than traditional pork ribs and have a lot of connective tissue, which makes them perfect for slow cooking. Country style ribs are often boneless, but you can also find them with bones. For this recipe, we’ll be using boneless country style ribs.
The Benefits of Slow Cooking Country Style Ribs
Slow cooking country style ribs is a great way to prepare them because it allows the connective tissue to break down, making the meat tender and juicy. Slow cooking also helps to infuse the meat with flavor, which is especially important when you’re using a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce like we are in this recipe.
Why Use a Slow Cooker?
Using a slow cooker is a great way to prepare country style ribs because it’s easy and convenient. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, turn it on, and let it do the work for you. Slow cookers are also great for busy people because they allow you to cook a meal while you’re away from home. Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this slow cooker country style ribs recipe:
- 2 pounds boneless country style ribs
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup beer (optional)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s talk about how to make this delicious slow cooker country style ribs recipe.
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
The first step is to prepare the ribs. Rinse the ribs under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture from the ribs, which can make them steam instead of brown in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This is the dry rub that we’ll be using to season the ribs.
Step 3: Season the Ribs
Rub the dry rub all over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly. This will help to add flavor to the ribs as they cook.
Step 4: Add the Ribs to the Slow Cooker
Add the ribs to the slow cooker, then pour in the BBQ sauce and beer (if using). Make sure the ribs are covered in the sauce, then cover the slow cooker with a lid.
Step 5: Cook the Ribs
Cook the ribs on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. This will depend on your schedule and how tender you like your ribs. If you prefer your ribs to be fall-off-the-bone tender, cook them on low for 10 hours. If you prefer them to be a little more firm, cook them on high for 4 hours.
Step 6: Finish the Ribs
After the ribs have finished cooking, remove them from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet. Brush them with a little more BBQ sauce, then sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using). This will help to add a little more flavor and texture to the ribs.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the most of this slow cooker country style ribs recipe:
Use a Variety of BBQ Sauces
One of the best things about this recipe is that you can use a variety of BBQ sauces to change up the flavor. Try using a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, a spicy BBQ sauce, or a smoky BBQ sauce to add a little more flavor to the ribs.
Add Some Wood Chips
If you want to add a little more smoky flavor to the ribs, try adding some wood chips to the slow cooker. You can use hickory, apple, or cherry wood chips to add a rich, smoky flavor to the ribs.
Use a Slow Cooker with a Temperature Control
If you have a slow cooker with a temperature control, use it to cook the ribs at a consistent temperature. This will help to ensure that the ribs are cooked evenly and are tender and juicy.
Conclusion
Slow cooker country style ribs are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. By following this recipe and using a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouth-watering, fall-off-the-bone tender rib dish that’s sure to impress. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Sodium | Carbohydrates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 540 | 35g | 42g | 450mg | 20g |
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
What are Country Style Ribs and how do they differ from other types of ribs?
Country Style Ribs are a type of pork rib that is meatier than other types of ribs. They are typically cut from the shoulder or loin area of the pig, which makes them more tender and flavorful. Unlike baby back ribs or spare ribs, Country Style Ribs are not as curved and have more meat on the bone.
This makes them perfect for slow cooking, as the meat can absorb all the flavors and become tender and fall-off-the-bone. Country Style Ribs are also often less expensive than other types of ribs, making them a great option for those on a budget. Overall, Country Style Ribs are a delicious and affordable option for anyone looking to try a new type of rib.
What is the best way to prepare Country Style Ribs for slow cooking?
To prepare Country Style Ribs for slow cooking, start by seasoning them with your favorite spices and herbs. You can use a dry rub or a marinade, depending on your preference. Make sure to coat the ribs evenly and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the ribs until they are browned on all sides. This will help create a crispy crust on the outside of the ribs, which will add texture and flavor to the dish. After searing the ribs, place them in the slow cooker and add your favorite sauce or braising liquid.
How long does it take to cook Country Style Ribs in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for Country Style Ribs in a slow cooker will depend on the temperature and the size of the ribs. Generally, it takes 8-10 hours on low heat or 4-6 hours on high heat to cook the ribs until they are tender and fall-off-the-bone.
It’s also important to note that the ribs will continue to cook a bit after they are removed from the slow cooker, so make sure to check on them periodically to avoid overcooking. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs, which should be at least 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
Can I use a different type of sauce or braising liquid for the Country Style Ribs?
Yes, you can use a different type of sauce or braising liquid for the Country Style Ribs. Some popular options include barbecue sauce, honey mustard sauce, and beer-based braising liquid. You can also experiment with different combinations of herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
When using a different sauce or braising liquid, make sure to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly. You want to make sure that the ribs are covered in liquid, but not so much that they are swimming in it. Also, be aware that different sauces and braising liquids can affect the cooking time, so make sure to check on the ribs periodically to avoid overcooking.
Can I cook Country Style Ribs in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook Country Style Ribs in the oven instead of a slow cooker. To do this, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the ribs in a large baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2-3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and fall-off-the-bone.
You can also use a similar sauce or braising liquid as you would in a slow cooker, but make sure to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly. Keep in mind that cooking the ribs in the oven will result in a slightly different texture and flavor than cooking them in a slow cooker.
How do I store and reheat leftover Country Style Ribs?
To store leftover Country Style Ribs, let them cool completely and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
To reheat the ribs, you can place them in the microwave or oven. If reheating in the microwave, cover the ribs with a damp paper towel and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, preheat to 300°F (150°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I serve Country Style Ribs as a main dish or as a side dish?
Country Style Ribs can be served as either a main dish or a side dish, depending on your preference. As a main dish, you can serve the ribs with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.
As a side dish, you can serve the ribs alongside other barbecue favorites, such as grilled chicken or burgers. You can also serve the ribs as an appetizer or snack, perfect for parties or game days. Regardless of how you serve them, Country Style Ribs are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.