Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep the Ribs: Cut the rack of ribs into manageable portions of 2 to 3 bones each. Place them inside your slow cooker.
2. Mix the Braising Liquid: Whisk together all remaining ingredients in a bowl, except for the barbecue sauce.
3. Slow Cook: Pour the whisked liquid over the ribs. Cover and cook on High for 5 to 6 hours or on Low for 8 to 10 hours .
4. Remove: Carefully transfer the ribs out of the liquid and place them on a clean plate or tray.
5. Preheat Grill: Fire up your outdoor grill to medium heat when you are ready to serve.
6. First Sauce Layer: Generously brush one side of the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce.
7. Grill & Sear: Place the ribs on the hot grill grates, sauce-side down. Immediately brush the top side with more sauce.
8. Char: Close the grill lid. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until distinct, caramelized char marks form.
9. Flip: Carefully flip the ribs, close the lid, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
10. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve immediately while hot.

📝 Recipe Notes

• Remove the Membrane: For ultra-tender ribs, look at the bone side of the rack before cutting. Peel away the thin, silvery membrane (silverskin) using a paper towel for a better grip. This helps the flavor penetrate deeper.
• Oven Broiler Alternative: If you do not have an outdoor grill, you can achieve the same caramelized finish using your oven's broiler. Lay the sauced ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for 3 to 4 minutes per side until bubbling.
• Watch the Sugar Content: Because the braising liquid contains a lot of sugar from the juice and brown sugar, keep a close eye on the ribs during the final grilling step. Sugar burns quickly, so stay within the 2 to 3-minute window per side.
• Handle with Care: Slow-cooked ribs become incredibly tender. Use wide tongs or a spatula when transferring them to and from the grill so they do not fall apart.