Preparing tender, flavorful barbecue ribs in a crockpot is both convenient and delicious
Ingredients:
2 cups of your favorite barbecue sauce
2 teaspoons brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
4 to 5 pounds baby back ribs
Instructions:
Prepare the Sauce: In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper (if using). Seal the bag and mix the ingredients thoroughly by kneading the bag with your hands.
Marinate the Ribs: Open the bag and place the ribs inside. Reseal and shake the bag to ensure the ribs are evenly coated with the sauce mixture.
Set Up the Crockpot: Lightly spray the interior of the crockpot with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Open the bag and transfer the sauced ribs into the crockpot. Pour any remaining sauce from the bag over the ribs, ensuring they are well-covered.
Cook the Ribs:
For fall-off-the-bone tenderness: Cook on high for 4 to 5 hours or on low for 9 hours.
For tender meat that stays on the bone: Cook on low for approximately 7 hours.
Serve: Once cooked to your desired tenderness, carefully remove the ribs from the crockpot. Serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side, allowing everyone to add more if they wish.
Tips:
Removing the Membrane: For better sauce absorption and tenderness, consider removing the inner membrane from the ribs before marinating.
Browning for Extra Flavor: After slow cooking, you can place the ribs under a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes to caramelize the sauce and add a slight char for enhanced flavor.
Adjusting Spice Levels: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
This method ensures you enjoy succulent, flavorful ribs with minimal effort, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
