How to Make Irresistible Country Style Beef Ribs in a Slow Cooker

Country style beef ribs in a slow cooker are a tender and flavorful meal. They are perfect for any time of the year. The ribs are cooked low and slow, making them melt in your mouth.

The rich, savory sauce goes great with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite sides. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can make a delicious dish. It’s sure to please the whole family.

Understanding Country Style Beef Ribs

Country style beef ribs are a tasty and versatile cut of meat. They taste similar to chuck roast when cooked right. These ribs are less fatty than chuck roast but still have enough marbling for tenderness and flavor.

Different Cuts of Country Style Ribs

There are two main types of country style beef ribs. Short ribs come from the chuck or plate primal cut. Back ribs are from the loin primal cut. The fat in plate short ribs keeps the meat moist, especially when smoking.

Less common cuts include the English cut and flanken cut. These are not as easy to find.

Bone-in vs Boneless Options

Country style beef ribs come in both bone-in and boneless forms. Bone-in ribs have more flavor and a richer texture. Boneless ribs are more versatile and easier to cook with methods like braising or slow roasting.

Selecting Quality Meat

When picking country style beef ribs, look for cuts with a fatty layer on top and good marbling. This fat and marbling keep the ribs moist and tender during cooking. It’s also important to handle, cook, and control the temperature properly for safe and quality ribs.

“Proper handling, cooking techniques, and temperature control are crucial for ensuring the safety and quality of beef ribs.”

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Slow Cooker Ribs

To make the ultimate slow-cooked beef ribs in your crockpot, you need the right ingredients. The secret to tender, flavorful slow-cooked beef ribs is a mix of great flavors. Let’s look at the key ingredients that make beef ribs in crock pot a special treat.

The main ingredient is the country-style beef ribs. You’ll need 3 pounds of these tasty cuts for plenty of servings. A 12-ounce can of cherry Coke adds a unique twist to the sauce.

Garlic is a must, with 4 cloves adding a strong aroma. A tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce brings a savory taste. A large onion adds sweet, caramelized flavors. And 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth completes the sauce.

With these ingredients, you’re set to make perfect slow-cooked beef ribs in your crockpot. The mix of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors will make your beef ribs in crock pot a hit.

The secret to great ribs is choosing the right ingredients carefully. By using this recipe, you’ll get tender, flavorful slow-cooked beef ribs that everyone will love.

Preparing Your Slow Cooker and Ribs

Getting your slow cooker ready is key for perfect country style beef ribs. Start by seasoning the slow cooker boneless beef ribs with a flavorful dry rub or marinade. This will make the meat tender and full of flavor.

Seasoning and Marinade Tips

Make a simple dry rub with herbs and spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Rub it all over the country style beef ribs slow cooker before cooking. Or, mix soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard for a tasty marinade.

Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker or covered roaster
• Tongs or forks for handling the ribs
• Basting brush (optional)
• Meat thermometer

Pre-cooking Steps

1. Brown the ribs in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side. This adds a delicious sear and caramelized flavor.
2. Arrange the seasoned ribs in the slow cooker or roaster, making sure they are in a single layer.
3. Add your favorite braising liquid, such as root beer, vanilla extract, or soy sauce, to the slow cooker.

With your slow cooker and ribs prepped, you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering, tender, and flavorful dish. It will have your guests coming back for more.

Creating the Perfect Root Beer-Based Sauce

When making the ultimate barbecued beef ribs, the sauce is key. A root beer-based sauce can make your country style beef ribs stand out. It adds a unique and flavorful twist.

The secret to this amazing sauce is the mix of root beer, vanilla extract, and soy sauce. Root beer brings a sweet, caramelized flavor that pairs well with the ribs. Vanilla extract adds a creamy, aromatic touch that brings all the flavors together.

To make this tasty sauce, mix root beer, soy sauce, vanilla extract, chile powder, and dark brown sugar in a saucepan. Heat it over medium, stirring now and then, until it thickens. This should take about 15-20 minutes. The result is a rich, complex sauce that will wow your guests.

“The root beer-based sauce is an absolute game-changer for my barbecued beef ribs. The sweetness and creaminess of the sauce perfectly complement the savory, tender ribs. This is now my go-to recipe for impressing friends and family.”

This sauce is very versatile. You can adjust the amounts or add your twist to match your taste. Whether you’re having a backyard barbecue or just want a tasty meal, this sauce will elevate your country style beef ribs.

Country Style Beef Ribs Seasoning Guide

Seasoning is key when making smoked or grilled beef ribs. Country style beef ribs are meatier, perfect for slow cooking. The right dry rub can make these ribs taste amazing.

Dry Rub Combinations

A classic dry rub for country style beef ribs includes:

• Brown sugar
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Chili powder
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper

You can also add:

• Dried thyme
• Paprika
• Cumin
• Cayenne pepper

Seasoning Application Techniques

Apply the dry rub generously on all sides of the smoked beef ribs or grilled beef ribs. This creates a tasty crust. Rub the seasoning into the meat with your fingers, covering all areas.

Let the seasoned ribs sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors meld together.

“The secret to perfect country style beef ribs is all in the seasoning. A well-balanced dry rub creates a mouthwatering crust that seals in the natural juices.”

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking country style beef ribs in a slow cooker is easy and makes the ribs tender and flavorful. Start by spraying your slow cooker with non-stick cooking oil. Then, put your seasoned slow cooker beef ribs inside.

1. Place the seasoned ribs in a single layer in the slow cooker. If needed, cut the ribs to fit well.
2. Put your chosen liquid, like beef broth or root beer, over the ribs until they’re almost covered.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours. The meat should be fork-tender.
4. Halfway through, make a simple gravy by mixing the cooking liquid with onion gravy mix.
5. Pour the gravy back into the slow cooker. Keep cooking until the ribs are tender and the sauce thickens.

The result is tender country style beef ribs with rich flavors. Serve them with your favorite sides for a cozy meal.

“The secret to tender, flavorful slow cooker beef ribs is in the low and slow cooking process. The patience pays off with ribs that practically melt in your mouth.”

Temperature and Timing Guidelines

Cooking braised beef ribs or slow-cooked beef ribs in a slow cooker needs the right temperature and timing. This ensures they become tender and delicious. Follow these tips to make your country-style beef ribs perfect every time.

Optimal Cooking Duration

Cook your country-style beef ribs on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking breaks down the meat’s connective tissues. It makes the ribs tender and full of flavor. If you prefer the oven, roast them at 325°F for 2.5 hours. Then, raise the temperature to 350°F for the last 30 minutes.

Internal Temperature Requirements

• The braised beef ribs should have an internal temperature of at least 145°F. This ensures they are cooked and safe to eat.
• For the best tenderness, cook them until they reach 190-200°F. At this temperature, the collagen breaks down. This makes the slow-cooked beef ribs tender and easy to pull apart.

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check the ribs’ internal temperature. It helps you get the ribs just right.

“The key to juicy, tender beef ribs is low and slow cooking. Be patient and let the ribs braise until they’re literally falling off the bone.”

Making the Perfect Gravy

Beef ribs in crock pot or country style beef ribs slow cooker recipes need a great gravy. Making the perfect gravy is easy and rewarding. It turns your slow-cooked ribs into a delicious meal.

To start, take 2 cups of the flavorful cooking liquid from the slow cooker. Mix it with a packet of onion gravy mix until it’s well combined. Then, put it back in the slow cooker and let it simmer. This lets the flavors mix and the gravy thicken.

For a richer gravy, make a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 cup of cold water. Slowly add this slurry to the simmering liquid, stirring constantly. This makes the gravy thicker and more velvety.

The secret to great gravy is balancing flavors and getting the right consistency. Add salt, pepper, or herbs to taste. Serve the slow-cooked beef ribs with this rich gravy for a comforting meal.

“The secret to making the perfect gravy is all in the slow-cooked juices, the right thickening agent, and a touch of seasoning to bring it all together.”

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

There are many ways to serve your country style beef ribs. They go great with classic sides that match their bold taste. Try serving them with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans or Brussels sprouts, or a fresh coleslaw. This helps balance the richness of the ribs.

Classic Pairings

For a traditional look, place the ribs on a bed of mashed potatoes. Drizzle the cooking liquid over them for a tasty gravy. You can also use fluffy white rice or buttery egg noodles as a base. Add baked beans or a crisp salad to complete the meal.

Plating Recommendations

To plate your ribs, put them on a mound of mashed potatoes or rice. Add a sprinkle of dried parsley for color and freshness. For a family-style look, serve the ribs on a platter. This lets everyone enjoy the meat and sides.

FAQ

What are country style beef ribs?

Country style beef ribs are a tender and flavorful cut of meat. They taste like chuck roast when cooked right. They are less fatty but still have good marbling for flavor and tenderness.

What are the best cooking methods for country style beef ribs?

You can cook them low and slow in the oven or slow cooker. This method makes the meat tender and flavorful. It’s great with a rich au jus or gravy.

What key ingredients are used for slow cooker country style beef ribs?

The key are the ribs, root beer, vanilla extract, and soy sauce. You’ll also need seasonings like garlic salt and black pepper. Bay leaves and onion gravy mix are also used. Some recipes add brown sugar and barbecue sauce.

How do you prepare the ribs for the slow cooker?

First, season the ribs with a dry rub or marinade. Then, put them in the slow cooker. You’ll need a slow cooker or covered roaster. Browning the ribs before cooking can add extra flavor.

What makes the root beer-based sauce unique?

The sauce is rich and decadent, thanks to root beer, vanilla extract, and soy sauce. The root beer’s sweetness caramelizes, adding a creamy aroma from the vanilla.

How do you make a flavorful dry rub for country style beef ribs?

Mix brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper for the rub. Tarragon and bay leaves can add more flavor.

What is the optimal cooking time and temperature for country style beef ribs in the slow cooker?

Cook them on low for 6-8 hours for tenderness. The ribs should reach 145°F for safety. But, keep cooking until they’re fork-tender.

How do you make the gravy for country style beef ribs?

Remove 2 cups of cooking liquid and mix with onion gravy mix. Return it to the slow cooker. For a thicker gravy, simmer the liquid and add a cornstarch slurry.

What are some classic side dishes to serve with country style beef ribs?

Serve them with mashed potatoes, green beans, or Brussels sprouts. Place the ribs on mashed potatoes, drizzle with gravy, and garnish with parsley.