Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs

If you’re craving tender, flavorful beef ribs that practically fall off the bone, then this Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs recipe is exactly what you need. Infused with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce and slow-cooked to perfection, these ribs are a perfect combination of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors. The best part? The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs beef ribs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Season the beef ribs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
2. Place the seasoned ribs in the slow cooker.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the ribs, ensuring the ribs are well-coated.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and fully cooked.
6. Once the ribs are done cooking, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. You can brush the ribs with additional BBQ sauce for extra flavor if desired.
7. Serve the ribs hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)
• Total Time: 6-8 hours
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the BBQ sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
• Smoky Flavor: For a more smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix or BBQ sauce.
• Sweet and Spicy: Mix in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup along with a small amount of hot sauce for a sweet and spicy BBQ sauce blend.
• Grilled Finish: After slow cooking, finish the ribs on a hot grill for a few minutes on each side to get that crispy, caramelized exterior.
• Vegetarian Option: You can use the same sauce for vegetarian-friendly options like grilled portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooked ribs in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave, oven, or stovetop. If reheating in the oven, wrap the ribs in foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use pork ribs instead of beef ribs?
   Yes, you can use pork ribs in place of beef ribs. The cooking time may vary slightly, but the method remains the same.
2. Can I cook these ribs on high if I’m short on time?
   Yes, cooking on high for 3-4 hours will give you tender ribs, though the texture may be slightly different than the low-and-slow method.
3. What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?
   Use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it’s sweet, tangy, or smoky. A homemade sauce or a store-bought version works great.
4. Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or carrots to the slow cooker along with the ribs for extra flavor. Just be sure to cut them into large pieces so they don’t overcook.
5. How do I know when the ribs are done?
   The ribs are done when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. You can also check with a meat thermometer—beef ribs are safe to eat when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
6. Do I need to brown the ribs before slow cooking?
   No, browning the ribs is not necessary for this recipe, as the slow cooker will tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
7. Can I use a different kind of vinegar?
   Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
8. Can I cook these ribs for longer than 8 hours?
   It’s best not to cook the ribs longer than 8 hours on low, as they may become too soft and start to fall apart.
9. Can I make the BBQ sauce from scratch?
   Absolutely! You can make a homemade BBQ sauce by combining ketchup, vinegar, sugar, mustard, and spices to your liking.
10. What can I serve with these ribs?
    These BBQ beef ribs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad or grilled corn on the cob also makes for a great side.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs are an easy and delicious way to enjoy tender, juicy ribs with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, a backyard BBQ, or a special occasion, these ribs are sure to impress. The slow-cooked method ensures that the meat is perfectly tender and packed with flavor, while the homemade BBQ sauce brings a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Set it and forget it, and let your slow cooker work its magic!

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