Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs

Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly tender beef ribs, enriched with a homemade barbeque sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. With the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe for Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs will soon become your go-to for a satisfying meal that feels like a labor of love, without the labor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for barbeque lovers. With minimal prep, you get fall-off-the-bone ribs infused with a homemade sauce that you can easily tweak to your liking. Whether you enjoy a hint of heat or a touch of sweetness, this versatile recipe allows for customization that will make your taste buds sing. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon for stirring
• Tongs for handling ribs
• Paper towels (for optional grease removal)
• Optional: broiler for pre-searing ribs

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 pounds beef back ribs
• Optional: 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
• Optional: 1 large onion, sliced
• Optional: honey for added sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the water, ketchup, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, and salt. Stir well to ensure the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
2. If desired, add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
3. Place the beef ribs into the slow cooker, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce mixture.
4. For an optional flavor boost, pre-sear the ribs in a broiler to caramelize the exterior.
5. Cover the slow cooker and set it to Low. Cook for 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. If using, add sliced onions on top of the ribs for added depth of flavor.

Tips for Success

• Broiling the ribs before slow cooking enhances the flavor and adds a nice caramelized crust.
• Consider omitting the water for a thicker sauce, as some users prefer.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or honey to your taste.
• Use tongs and paper towels to remove any excess grease from the slow cooker.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Add sliced onions or garlic for extra flavor dimensions.
• Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a different tang.
• Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for a richer barbeque flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on modifications and additional ingredients.

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Sugar: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use pork ribs instead of beef ribs? Absolutely, pork ribs are a great alternative and will work well with this sauce.

How can I make the sauce thicker? Try omitting the water or reducing it for a thicker sauce consistency.

Can I cook the ribs on high? Yes, you can cook them on high for 4-5 hours, but cooking on low is recommended for the best tenderness.

Conclusion

Ready to elevate your barbeque game with these Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs? Gather your ingredients, start up your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. Don’t forget to tweak the sauce to suit your taste, and share your delicious results with friends and family. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so be sure to leave a comment or share your experience!