Ribs are a scrumptious dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Slow cooking them in a crockpot is one of the easiest and most delicious methods. Slow cooker baby back ribs are an easy and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 2-4 lbs baby back ribs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix until all ingredients are combined.
- Rinse the ribs and pat dry with a paper towel. Place the ribs on a cutting board and rub the seasoning mixture on both sides of the ribs. Place the ribs in the slow cooker.
- Mix the apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce in a medium bowl and pour over the ribs.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. Once cooked, remove ribs from slow cooker and serve.
Nutrition
Slow cooker baby back ribs are a delicious and healthy meal. Each serving contains about 300-400 calories, 15-20 grams of fat, and 40-50 grams of protein. This dish is also a source of dietary fiber, calcium, and iron.
For those looking to cut down on calories, try using a reduced sugar ketchup and a vinegar-based marinade instead of the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. This will cut back on the sugar and sodium content of the dish.
If you’re worried about the fat content, try using leaner cuts of meat or opt for a leaner type of rib. Additionally, you can always trim any visible fat before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Slow cooker baby back ribs can be served with a variety of side dishes. For a healthier option, try serving them with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad. You can also serve them with mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or sweet potato fries.
For a classic flavor combination, serve the ribs with a side of coleslaw. This tangy and creamy side dish pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy ribs.
For a more indulgent meal, serve the ribs with a side of mac and cheese or cheesy grits. If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, try serving them with a side of roasted cauliflower or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Storage
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. You can also freeze the cooked ribs for up to three months.
To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then place in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Conclusion
Slow cooker baby back ribs are an easy and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. This dish is not only delicious, but it is also nutritious, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner. With minimal prep and a few simple ingredients, you can have this delicious dish on the table in no time.
