Are you craving delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs without the hassle of constant monitoring and tending? Look no further than your Ninja slow cooker. This versatile kitchen appliance is perfect for cooking a variety of dishes, including tender and flavorful ribs. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of cooking ribs in a Ninja slow cooker, from preparation to serving.
Choosing the Right Ribs
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of ribs for your Ninja slow cooker. You can opt for either pork or beef ribs, but pork ribs are more popular and tender. Within the pork ribs category, you have two options: baby back ribs and spare ribs.
Baby Back Ribs vs. Spare Ribs
Baby back ribs are leaner and more curved, making them easier to cook and more tender. They are also more expensive than spare ribs. Spare ribs, on the other hand, are meatier and have more fat, which makes them more flavorful. However, they can be tougher and require longer cooking times.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Ribs
When selecting ribs, consider the following factors:
- Freshness: Opt for fresh ribs with a pleasant smell and a smooth, even texture.
- Size: Choose ribs that fit comfortably in your Ninja slow cooker. You can always trim them to size if needed.
- Marbling: Look for ribs with a good amount of marbling (fat distribution), as this will make them more tender and flavorful.
Preparing the Ribs
Once you’ve chosen your ribs, it’s time to prepare them for cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Removing the Membrane
The membrane is a thin layer of tissue that covers the bony side of the ribs. Removing it will help the rub penetrate the meat and make the ribs more tender. To remove the membrane, follow these steps:
- Flip the ribs over and locate the membrane.
- Use a paper towel to grip the membrane and pull it off.
- If the membrane doesn’t come off easily, use a knife to loosen it.
Applying the Rub
A dry rub is a mixture of spices and herbs that adds flavor to the ribs. You can use a store-bought rub or create your own. Here’s a simple recipe for a dry rub:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
Apply the rub evenly to both sides of the ribs, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
Cooking the Ribs in a Ninja Slow Cooker
Now that your ribs are prepared, it’s time to cook them in your Ninja slow cooker. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Setting Up the Ninja Slow Cooker
- Place the ribs in the Ninja slow cooker, bone-side down.
- Add your favorite barbecue sauce or a mixture of sauce and broth to the slow cooker. The liquid should cover the ribs about halfway.
- Close the lid and set the slow cooker to low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Finishing the Ribs
After 8-10 hours, remove the ribs from the slow cooker and brush them with additional barbecue sauce. You can also add a glaze made from honey, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you prefer a crisper exterior on your ribs, you can finish them in the oven or on the grill. Here’s how:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for 5-10 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
Serving and Storing the Ribs
Once the ribs are cooked, it’s time to serve and store them. Here are some tips:
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the ribs with additional barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and cornbread for a classic Southern-style meal.
- Offer a variety of sides, such as baked beans, grilled vegetables, and potato salad.
Storing Leftovers
- Cool the ribs to room temperature and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store the ribs in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you achieve the perfect ribs in your Ninja slow cooker:
Tips for Tender Ribs
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ribs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker, as this can prevent the ribs from cooking evenly.
- Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup and to prevent the ribs from sticking to the pot.
Variations for Different Flavors
- Korean-style ribs: Add a Korean-inspired rub made from gochujang, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
- Mexican-style ribs: Add a spicy rub made from chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
- Indian-style ribs: Add a blend of Indian spices, such as garam masala, cumin, and coriander.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to achieve delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs in your Ninja slow cooker. Experiment with different flavors and variations to find your favorite way to cook ribs. Happy cooking!
What is the best type of ribs to use for fall-off-the-bone ribs in a Ninja Slow Cooker?
The best type of ribs to use for fall-off-the-bone ribs in a Ninja Slow Cooker is pork ribs, specifically baby back ribs or St. Louis-style pork ribs. These types of ribs are meatier and have more fat, which makes them perfect for slow cooking. The fat will melt and tenderize the meat, making it fall-off-the-bone tender.
When choosing pork ribs, look for ones that are fresh and have a good balance of meat and fat. You can also opt for beef ribs, but pork ribs are generally more tender and flavorful. Avoid using spare ribs, as they can be too tough and chewy.
How long does it take to cook fall-off-the-bone ribs in a Ninja Slow Cooker?
The cooking time for fall-off-the-bone ribs in a Ninja Slow Cooker can vary depending on the type and size of the ribs, as well as the desired level of tenderness. Generally, it takes around 8-10 hours on low heat or 4-6 hours on high heat to cook the ribs to perfection.
It’s essential to check the ribs periodically to ensure they are cooked to your liking. You can check for tenderness by inserting a fork or knife into the meat. If it slides in easily, the ribs are done. If not, continue cooking for another 30 minutes to an hour and check again.
Can I use a dry rub or marinade for the ribs?
Yes, you can use a dry rub or marinade for the ribs to add extra flavor. A dry rub is a mixture of spices and herbs that you rub onto the ribs before cooking, while a marinade is a liquid mixture that you soak the ribs in before cooking. Both methods can add a lot of flavor to the ribs.
When using a dry rub, make sure to apply it evenly to both sides of the ribs, making sure to coat all surfaces. For a marinade, place the ribs in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Do I need to brown the ribs before cooking them in the Ninja Slow Cooker?
Browning the ribs before cooking them in the Ninja Slow Cooker is optional, but it can add a rich, caramelized flavor to the ribs. To brown the ribs, heat a skillet or oven to high heat, and sear the ribs for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned.
If you don’t have time to brown the ribs, you can skip this step and cook them directly in the Ninja Slow Cooker. The slow cooker will still produce tender and flavorful ribs, but they might not have the same level of browning as pan-seared ribs.
Can I cook multiple racks of ribs in the Ninja Slow Cooker at the same time?
Yes, you can cook multiple racks of ribs in the Ninja Slow Cooker at the same time, but it depends on the size of the ribs and the slow cooker. If you have a large slow cooker, you can fit two or three racks of ribs, but if you have a smaller one, you might only be able to fit one rack.
When cooking multiple racks of ribs, make sure to leave enough space between them for even cooking. You can also stack the ribs, but make sure to separate them with foil or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
How do I store leftover ribs?
To store leftover ribs, let them cool completely, 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.
When reheating leftover ribs, you can wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat them, as they can become dry and tough.
Can I make fall-off-the-bone ribs in a Ninja Slow Cooker ahead of time?
Yes, you can make fall-off-the-bone ribs in a Ninja Slow Cooker ahead of time. In fact, cooking the ribs ahead of time can make them even more tender and flavorful. To cook the ribs ahead of time, cook them in the slow cooker as instructed, then let them cool completely.
Once the ribs are cool, you can refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to serve. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the ribs in the oven or microwave, and serve them with your favorite sides and sauces.