Get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food with these Slow Cooker Tangy Ribs—fall-off-the-bone tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. This easy slow-cooker recipe transforms baby back or spare ribs into a mouthwatering masterpiece by using a savory dry rub and a tangy sauce made with barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a touch of Worcestershire. The slow-cooking process ensures the ribs are perfectly tender, while an optional final step in the oven adds a sticky, caramelized finish. Ideal for weeknight dinners or backyard gatherings, these tangy slow-cooked ribs are great when paired with classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread. Whether you're an experienced home cook or a beginner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and is sure to become a family favorite!
Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and brown sugar to create a dry rub.
Rub the dry seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the ribs.
Place the ribs in the slow cooker, arranging them so they fit snugly (you can cut the rack into smaller sections if needed).
In another bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, honey, and liquid smoke (if using). This will be your tangy sauce.
Pour the sauce evenly over the ribs in the slow cooker, making sure they are well coated.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and the meat is pulling away from the bone.
Optional: For caramelized, sticky ribs, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and transfer the cooked ribs to the sheet. Brush with additional barbecue sauce and bake for 10-15 minutes, or broil for 3-5 minutes until slightly charred.
Serve the ribs warm with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy!
Calories |
4883 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 318.8 g | 409% | |
| Saturated Fat | 118.5 g | 592% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1279 mg | 426% | |
| Sodium | 8942 mg | 389% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 233.4 g | 85% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g | 6% | |
| Total Sugars | 207.5 g | ||
| Protein | 278.9 g | 558% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 452 mg | 35% | |
| Iron | 19.4 mg | 108% | |
| Potassium | 3872 mg | 82% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.