Slow cooker barbecued beef ribs offer several health and nutritional benefits. Here are some of them:
1. High-quality protein: Beef ribs are a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
2. Vitamins and minerals: Beef ribs contain various vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health. These include B vitamins (such as B12 and niacin), zinc, iron, and selenium. B vitamins play a crucial role in energy metabolism, while zinc, iron, and selenium are important for immune function and cellular health.
3. Collagen and gelatin: Slow cooking beef ribs can break down collagen and connective tissues, resulting in tender meat and the release of gelatin. Collagen and gelatin are beneficial for joint health, skin elasticity, and gut health.
4. Healthy fats: While beef ribs do contain fat, they also provide beneficial fats. Grass-fed or lean cuts of beef can provide omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and support heart health.
5. Nutrient-dense marinades: When marinating beef ribs for slow cooking, you can use flavorful and nutrient-dense ingredients. For example, marinades made with natural ingredients like garlic, ginger, onions, and herbs can provide additional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
6. Control over ingredients: When preparing slow cooker barbecued beef ribs at home, you have control over the ingredients used. This allows you to choose high-quality, organic, or locally sourced ingredients, and adjust the seasonings and sauces to your preference, reducing the intake of unhealthy additives or excessive sodium.
However, it’s important to note that the overall healthiness of slow cooker barbecued beef ribs also depends on how they are prepared and consumed. It’s recommended to trim excess fat from the ribs before cooking and to pair the dish with a variety of nutritious sides, such as vegetables, whole grains, or salads, to create a balanced meal. Moderation is also key, as beef ribs can be calorie-dense, so it’s important to enjoy them as part of a well-rounded diet.
Slow Cooker Barbequed Beef Ribs
Ingredients
2 cups your favorite Barbecue Sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, freshly minced
2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
1 tsp cayenne pepper, optional
4 to 5 pounds baby back ribs
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Instructions
In a zip lock bag pour in the Barbecue Sauce
Add in the brown sugar, garlic, Worcestershire sauce and cayenne if chosen
Zip the bag closed and using your hands to knead the bag, mix the sauce ingredients together well.
Open the bag and stick the ribs inside
Close the bag and shake the bag to coat the ribs completely
Spray the inside of the crock pot
Open the bag and place the ribs into the crock pot
Pour ¾ of the sauce from the bag into the crock pot, making sure to cover the ribs with the sauce.
Cook on high for 4 to 5 hours for fall off the bone meat, on low for 9 hours for fall off the bone.
If you prefer the meat super soft, but staying on the bone, cook on low for 7 hours to fall off the bone meat.
Have some of the sauce available for on the table, then each person can choose if they want more or not.
Certainly! Here are some tips for making delicious slow cooker barbecued beef ribs:
1. Choose the right ribs: Look for meaty and well-marbled beef ribs. Beef short ribs or beef back ribs are great options for slow cooking as they become tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow.
2. Season the ribs: Before placing the ribs in the slow cooker, season them generously with a dry rub or your favorite spices. This adds flavor and enhances the taste of the meat. Common spices for barbecue ribs include paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, brown sugar, and black pepper.
3. Sear the ribs (optional): For added depth of flavor, you can sear the ribs in a hot skillet or on a grill before placing them in the slow cooker. Searing helps to develop a rich crust and caramelization on the meat.
4. Add a flavorful liquid: To keep the ribs moist during the slow cooking process, add a flavorful liquid such as beef broth, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, or a combination of these. This helps to infuse the meat with additional taste and ensures juicy ribs.
5. Cook on low and slow: Slow cookers are designed to cook food at low temperatures over a long period. For beef ribs, it’s best to cook them on the low setting for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. This slow cooking method allows the collagen and connective tissues to break down, resulting in tender and succulent ribs.
6. Baste with barbecue sauce: During the last hour of cooking, baste the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce. This adds a sticky and flavorful glaze to the ribs. You can also reserve some sauce for serving alongside the ribs.
7. Finish on the grill or under the broiler (optional): If you prefer a caramelized and slightly crispy exterior, you can transfer the cooked ribs to a hot grill or place them under the broiler for a few minutes. This step adds a smoky flavor and char to the ribs.
8. Rest and serve: Once cooked, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Serve the slow cooker barbecued beef ribs with your favorite sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables.
Remember to adjust the cooking time and temperature based on your slow cooker’s specifications and the size of the ribs. Enjoy your flavorful and tender barbecued beef ribs!