Are you longing for fall-off-the-bone tender ribs? Look no further, because we have the secret to achieving that restaurant-quality perfection right in your own kitchen. With a few simple steps, you’ll be able to transform your crockpot ribs into beautifully caramelized and irresistibly delicious morsels of meat.
The Magic Behind Crockpot Ribs
We all crave ribs that effortlessly detach from the bone, and the crockpot is our ultimate kitchen ally in making this happen. However, getting to that mouthwatering stage requires a little know-how. If you simply toss the ribs and BBQ sauce into the slow cooker for eight hours, the result may be fall-off-the-bone ribs, but they might lack that appetizing appeal. The BBQ sauce won’t caramelize, and you’ll be left with a runny, unappealing liquid.
That’s where our secret comes in. By combining the convenience of the crockpot with our easy tip, you’ll be able to create some truly amazing ribs that will leave everyone craving more.
The Secret to Crockpot Ribs
- Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This step is easier than you might think. Just slide your fingers around the side to loosen it up and rip it right off.
- Consider giving the ribs a dry rub for an added flavor boost. While this step is optional, some people swear by it.
- Place your ribs in the crockpot and generously coat them with BBQ sauce. You can use a homemade sauce like our Raspberry-Chipotle Barbecue Sauce or a store-bought bottle. Just remember to save a little sauce for later.
- Set your crockpot to cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. Keep in mind that the more racks you have in the pot, the longer the cooking time will be.
- Gently remove the racks from the crockpot and lay them out on a foil-lined baking sheet. Add another layer of BBQ sauce on top.
- For that irresistible caramelization, broil the ribs under a broiler for 3-5 minutes until the BBQ sauce begins to bubble and caramelize. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and grill them for the same effect. This method is particularly useful for large gatherings and picnics since it keeps the ribs warm until they’re ready to be devoured.
Choosing the Right Ribs
Not all ribs are created equal, and different types respond differently to the slow cooker method. For the best results, we recommend using pork ribs such as baby back ribs, spare ribs, St. Louis style ribs, or country style pork ribs. If you’re in the mood for beef short ribs, we have separate recipes tailored to cater to those specific cravings. And if you’re lucky enough to own a smoker, we highly recommend trying our Smoked Beef Ribs.
Taking It to the Grill
While our secret method revolves around using the broiler setting in your oven, we understand that some of you may prefer the grill for that extra burst of flavor. If you choose to grill your ribs, simply place them directly on the grill (or on a piece of aluminum foil) over high heat (around 500 degrees Fahrenheit). Brush them with additional barbecue sauce and close the lid. Let them grill for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce starts to bubble and caramelize.
A Pro Tip for You: One of the best-kept secrets for crockpot ribs is using a crockpot liner. These BPA-free plastic bags line your crockpot, making cleanup a breeze. Say goodbye to scrubbing out caramelized, burnt-on sauce because these liners are a huge time saver. You can easily find them in your local grocery store, near items like aluminum foil and plastic bags.
Now that you have the secret to achieving tender, caramelized ribs, it’s time to gather your loved ones and treat them to an incredible meal. So, fire up your crockpot, follow our easy steps, and get ready to enjoy the most mouthwatering ribs you’ve ever tasted.
Learn more about cooking tips and delicious recipes at Ekilove.
