Are you ready to take your taste buds on a mouthwatering adventure? Imagine tender, flavorful pork riblets slow-cooked to perfection, bathed in a rich BBQ sauce that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This "Slow Cooker Pork Riblets" recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that promises to elevate your dinner game with minimal effort. With just 15 minutes of prep time and 6 hours of slow cooking, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the deliciousness that awaits!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork riblets
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the riblets by removing any excess fat and patting them dry with paper towels.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the pork riblets into the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the riblets, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 6 hours. During this time, the riblets will become tender and absorb the rich, tangy flavors.
- After 6 hours, carefully remove the riblets from the slow cooker using tongs.
- Optional: For a caramelized finish, transfer riblets to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until slightly crispy on the edges.
- Let the riblets rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley or green onions.
Tips
- Choose Quality Meat: Opt for fresh, high-quality pork riblets for the best flavor and tenderness. Look for riblets with a good amount of meat and marbling.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to tweak the BBQ sauce to your liking! Add your favorite spices or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Layering is Key: If your slow cooker is small, consider cutting the riblets into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: For the best results, resist the urge to open the lid during cooking. This will keep the heat and moisture locked in.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: For a delightful caramelized finish, transfer your cooked riblets to a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes. This step adds a delicious crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the riblets to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish. Enjoy your cooking adventure and prepare to indulge in these irresistible Slow Cooker Pork Riblets!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
