Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Set the slow cooker to low and spray with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the ribs do not stick during cooking.
Prepare the Ribs
Remove the silver membrane from the back of the ribs. This thin layer can make the ribs tough if left on.
Make the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, whisk together the smoked paprika, brown sugar, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
Apply the Dry Rub
Rub the dry mixture evenly over the entire surface of the ribs, ensuring they are well coated for maximum flavor.
Brush with Barbecue Sauce
Brush both sides of the ribs generously with barbecue sauce to add moisture and flavor during cooking.
Arrange the Ribs in the Slow Cooker
Place the ribs in the slow cooker, standing upright with the meaty side against the inside wall to ensure even cooking.
Pour Remaining Barbecue Sauce
Pour any remaining barbecue sauce over the ribs to enhance the flavor and keep them moist throughout the cooking process.
Optional: Add Apple Cider Vinegar
If you are using a sweet barbecue sauce, pour the apple cider vinegar over the ribs. This will help balance the sweetness.
Cover and Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the ribs are fork-tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
Prepare for Serving
Once cooked, serve the ribs with additional barbecue sauce, or strain the cooking juices through a fine-mesh strainer into a medium saucepan.
Reduce the Sauce
Bring the strained sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture has reduced to about 2 cups.
Slice and Serve
Slice the meat between the bones and serve with the reduced barbecue sauce on the side.
Notes
Rib Preparation
Removing the silver membrane is crucial for tender ribs. It allows the flavors of the rub and sauce to penetrate better.
Dry Rub Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the amounts of spices in the dry rub according to your taste preferences.
Barbecue Sauce Choices
Choose your favorite barbecue sauce. Sweet sauces pair well with apple cider vinegar to cut the sweetness.
Cooking Time Variations
Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker model and the thickness of the ribs. Always check for tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
These ribs pair well with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking allows the ribs to become tender and juicy over an extended period. Cooking on low for 5-6 hours ensures the meat falls off the bone.
Dry Rub Application
A dry rub of smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and spices enhances the flavor of the ribs. Massaging the rub into the meat helps the flavors penetrate more deeply.
Layering the Sauce
Brushing the ribs with barbecue sauce before cooking adds a rich flavor. Pouring additional sauce over the ribs while cooking keeps them moist and infuses the meat with flavor.
Maintaining Moisture
Using apple cider vinegar with a sweet barbecue sauce can balance flavors and maintain moisture. This is especially helpful if the sauce lacks acidity.
Reducing Cooking Juices
Straining the cooking juices and reducing them on the stovetop intensifies the flavor of the sauce. This concentrated sauce can be served on the side for added richness.
