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December 10, 2024
If you’re a fan of tender, juicy pork spare ribs, but don’t have the time to watch over them on a grill or in the oven, then cooking them in a crock pot is the perfect solution. This slow cooking method allows the ribs to become fork-tender and full of flavor, while requiring minimal effort on your part. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want a delicious meal for your family, this recipe will guide you through the simple steps of cooking pork spare ribs in a crock pot.
Before you start, it’s important to choose the right cut of pork spare ribs. St. Louis-style spare ribs are often preferred for their meaty texture and rich flavor. You can ask your local butcher to cut the ribs into individual portions, or you can purchase them pre-cut from the grocery store. Once you have the ribs, it’s time to prepare them for cooking.
Tip: To enhance the flavor of your spare ribs, you can marinate them overnight in your favorite BBQ sauce or dry rub.
Next, you’ll want to season your ribs with your desired spices. A classic combination includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Be generous with the seasoning to ensure that the flavors penetrate the meat. Once the ribs are seasoned, place them in the crock pot. You may need to cut the ribs in half to fit them in a single layer at the bottom of the pot.
Now it’s time to add your favorite BBQ sauce or marinade. Pour it over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly. If you prefer a spicier taste, add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes. Once everything is in the crock pot, cover it with a lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook the ribs, the more tender they will become.
When the ribs are done, carefully remove them from the crock pot and place them on a cutting board. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become even more tender. Serve the ribs with additional BBQ sauce on the side, and enjoy!
Note: If you prefer your ribs to have a caramelized crust, you can transfer them to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Now that you know how to cook pork spare ribs in a crock pot, you can easily enjoy this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Try experimenting with different BBQ sauces and spices to create your own unique flavor combination. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, these slow-cooked ribs are sure to be a hit!
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you can begin cooking pork spare ribs in a crock pot, you will need to gather and prepare the necessary ingredients. Here is what you will need:
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds of pork spare ribs
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 cup of barbecue sauce
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you can begin preparing the pork spare ribs:
1. Trim the Ribs:
Start by removing any excess fat or silver skin from the ribs. This will help prevent the meat from becoming greasy and improve the overall texture of the dish.
2. Season the Ribs:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well to create a spice rub. Apply the spice rub generously to both sides of the ribs, ensuring that they are evenly coated.
3. Preheat the Crock Pot:
Before adding the ribs, preheat your crock pot on the low setting for about 10 minutes. This will ensure that the pot is fully heated and ready to cook the ribs evenly.
With the ingredients prepared, you are now ready to start cooking your pork spare ribs in the crock pot. The next section will cover the cooking process in detail.
Seasoning the Ribs
Before cooking your pork spare ribs in a crock pot, it’s important to season them well to enhance their flavor. Here’s a simple and delicious seasoning that you can use:
Ingredients:
| • 2 tablespoons brown sugar | • 1 tablespoon paprika |
| • 1 tablespoon garlic powder | • 1 tablespoon onion powder |
| • 1 teaspoon salt | • 1 teaspoon black pepper |
| • 1 teaspoon dried thyme | • 1 teaspoon dried oregano |
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients: brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Take the pork spare ribs and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning adhere to the meat.
4. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the ribs, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
5. Once the ribs are seasoned, let them sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Now that your pork spare ribs are seasoned and ready to go, it’s time to move on to the next step: cooking them in the crock pot.
Preparing the Crock Pot
Before you begin cooking the pork spare ribs, you will need to prepare your crock pot for use. Follow these steps to ensure your crock pot is clean and ready for cooking:
Step 1: Wash the crock pot thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Rinse it well to remove any soap residue.
Step 2: Dry the crock pot completely with a clean towel.
Step 3: Place the crock pot on a stable and heat-resistant surface, such as a countertop or table.
Step 4: Plug in the crock pot and ensure that the temperature control knob is set to the desired cooking temperature. Most recipes for pork spare ribs recommend cooking on low heat for 8-10 hours.
Step 5: Preheat the crock pot for 10-15 minutes before adding any ingredients. This will help ensure that the ribs cook evenly and thoroughly.
Step 6: Once the crock pot is preheated, you can start preparing the pork spare ribs by following the recipe of your choice.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific crock pot model. This will help ensure safe and successful cooking.
Cooking the Ribs
Once the ribs have marinated, it’s time to cook them in the crock pot. Follow these steps to ensure delicious, tender ribs:
Step 1: Preparing the Crock Pot
Before cooking the ribs, make sure your crock pot is clean and ready to use. If necessary, give it a quick wash with warm soapy water and dry it thoroughly. Place the crock pot on a steady, heat-resistant surface.
Step 2: Adding the Ribs to the Pot
Take the marinated ribs out of the refrigerator and remove any excess marinade. Place the ribs in the crock pot, arranging them in a single layer if possible. If needed, cut the ribs into smaller pieces to fit the pot.
Step 3: Adding the Cooking Liquid
Pour your chosen cooking liquid into the crock pot, such as broth, beer, or barbecue sauce. The liquid should come just about halfway up the sides of the ribs. Avoid completely submerging the ribs, as this can lead to overcooking.
Step 4: Cooking on Low Heat
Put the lid on the crock pot and set it to cook on low heat. Slow cooking is key to achieving tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs. Cook the ribs on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the meat is easily pulled apart with a fork.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the ribs from the crock pot using tongs. If desired, you can brush the ribs with additional barbecue sauce for added flavor. Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before serving, so the juices can redistribute throughout the meat.
That’s it! You’ve successfully cooked pork spare ribs in a crock pot. Enjoy your delicious and tender ribs!
Adding BBQ Sauce
Once the pork spare ribs are tender and cooked to perfection, it’s time to add some delicious BBQ sauce. This step will enhance the flavor and add a tangy sweetness to the ribs.
Here is a simple recipe to make your own BBQ sauce:
Ingredients:
| 1 cup ketchup | ¼ cup brown sugar |
| 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce |
| 1 tablespoon mustard | 1 tablespoon honey |
| 1 teaspoon paprika | 1 teaspoon garlic powder |
| ½ teaspoon onion powder | salt and black pepper to taste |
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine all the ingredients. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the sauce from the heat and let it cool slightly before using.
Once the BBQ sauce is ready, generously brush it over the cooked spare ribs. Make sure to coat both sides of the ribs to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor.
Once all the ribs are covered in BBQ sauce, you can choose to finish them in the crock pot on low for an additional 30 minutes to allow the sauce to absorb into the meat. Alternatively, you can transfer the ribs to a preheated grill or broiler to caramelize the sauce for a few minutes.
Remember, the BBQ sauce not only adds flavor but also helps to create that sticky, caramelized crust that everyone loves on spare ribs. So, don’t skimp on the sauce!
Your mouthwatering and tender BBQ spare ribs are now ready to be served. They pair perfectly with coleslaw, cornbread, or even a side of creamy mac and cheese. Enjoy!
FAQ
How long does it take to cook pork spare ribs in a crock pot?
The cooking time for pork spare ribs in a crock pot can vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs. In general, it takes about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat to cook the ribs until they are tender and juicy. It is recommended to check the internal temperature of the ribs with a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I use a different sauce instead of barbecue sauce for pork spare ribs in a crock pot?
Yes, you can definitely use a different sauce instead of barbecue sauce for pork spare ribs in a crock pot. Some popular alternatives include teriyaki sauce, honey mustard sauce, or even a homemade marinade of your choice. The sauce you use will affect the flavor of the ribs, so feel free to experiment and find the one that suits your taste preferences.
Should I remove the membrane from the back of the spare ribs before cooking them in a crock pot?
It is recommended to remove the membrane from the back of the spare ribs before cooking them in a crock pot. The membrane can be tough and chewy, and removing it helps to ensure that the ribs will be tender and easily fall off the bone. To remove the membrane, use a paper towel to grip the edge of it and peel it off in one piece.
Can I add vegetables to the crock pot along with the pork spare ribs?
Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the crock pot along with the pork spare ribs. Some common options include onions, bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes. Adding vegetables not only enhances the flavor of the dish, but also provides additional nutrients and creates a complete meal. Just make sure to cut the vegetables into small pieces so that they cook evenly with the ribs.