Tender & Healthy Slow Cooked Pork Ribs
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat20gram
Protein30gram
Ingredients
- Pork ribs (preferably baby back or spare ribs) - choose fresh, pale pink colored ribs with no odor1.5 kg
- Apple juice (pure, no added sugar) - adds gentle sweetness and moisture250 ml
- Garlic cloves (fresh, firm, and unblemished) - finely minced3 pieces
- Onion (medium, fresh with no discoloration) - sliced1 piece
- Smoked paprika - for subtle smoky flavor1 tbsp
- Ground black pepper - freshly ground for best aroma1 tsp
- Salt (preferably sea salt) - to taste1.5 tsp
- Olive oil (extra virgin) - to lightly coat ribs1 tbsp
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional) - to add fragrant herbs1 tbsp
This tender and healthy slow cooked pork ribs recipe is perfect for home cooks looking to make juicy, flavorful ribs without the fuss of grilling or smoking. Using a slow cooker breaks down the meat to make it fall-off-the-bone tender. The recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that keep the dish on the healthier side by using minimal added sugars and fats. All you need are some pork ribs, spices, a little apple juice, and a few pantry staples. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $12 USD (about €11, £9, ₹880). Each serving contains approximately 350 kcal, making it suitable for a balanced diet. The recipe is easy in difficulty and takes about 7 hours total including slow cooking time. Food safety is a priority; ensure pork reaches an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F) to be safe to eat. Enjoy delicious ribs with confidence!
Preparation instructions
Prepare the pork ribs
1Remove the pork ribs from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better. Remove the thin membrane from the back of ribs for tender results by sliding a knife and pulling it off.
Season the ribs
2In a small bowl, mix salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs. Drizzle olive oil and rub it in to help the spices stick and aid browning.
Prepare the slow cooker
3Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the slow cooker base. These provide a flavorful bed for the ribs and aroma during cooking.
Add the ribs and liquid
4Place the seasoned ribs on top of the onions and garlic inside the slow cooker. Pour the apple juice gently around the ribs, avoiding washing off the seasoning.
Set cooking time and temperature
5Cover with the slow cooker lid. Cook on low heat for about 6 to 7 hours. Low and slow cooking breaks down connective tissues for tender meat. Check after 6 hours for tenderness.
Check doneness and food safety
6Ensure the pork ribs reach an internal temperature of at least 71°C (160°F) using a meat thermometer inserted at the thickest point without touching bone. The meat should be tender and easy to pull apart. If not done, cook an additional 30 minutes.
Serve and enjoy
7Carefully remove ribs from the slow cooker. Let rest a few minutes, then cut between bones. Serve hot for best flavor and texture.
Cooking Tips
-If you do not have apple juice, you can substitute with unsweetened apple cider or water with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.
-To add a tangy flavor, brush ribs with a small amount of barbecue sauce in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
-Always wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw pork to avoid cross-contamination.
-Slow cookers can vary in temperature; use a meat thermometer to ensure safety and doneness.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Meat thermometer
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Small mixing bowl
- Tongs
Shopping List with Estimated Prices
- [ ] Pork ribs (1.5 kg) – $9 (choose fresh ribs, look for firm meat with pink color)
- [ ] Apple juice (250 ml) – $1.50 (pick pure apple juice with no added sugar)
- [ ] Garlic cloves (3 pieces) – $0.30 (select firm, tight cloves without sprouts)
- [ ] Onion (1 medium) – $0.50 (choose firm, dry skin onion)
- [ ] Smoked paprika (1 tbsp) – $0.40 (buy fresh or from a reputable brand)
- [ ] Ground black pepper (1 tsp) – $0.20
- [ ] Salt (1.5 tsp) – negligible
- [ ] Olive oil (1 tbsp) – $0.50
- [ ] Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, 1 tbsp) – $0.60
Total Estimated Cost: $12.00
FAQ
What internal temperature should pork ribs be cooked to for safety?
Pork ribs should reach an internal temperature of at least 71°C (160°F) to ensure they are safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the ribs.
Can I cook these ribs on high in the slow cooker?
While you can cook ribs on high, it's best to cook them on low for 6-7 hours for more tender and juicy results. Cooking on high usually takes about 3-4 hours but might be less tender.
How do I know if the ribs are fully cooked?
Apart from checking the internal temperature, fully cooked ribs should be tender and the meat should pull away easily from the bones.
Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can bake the ribs in a covered baking dish or foil at 150°C (300°F) for about 2.5 to 3 hours to achieve similar tenderness.
How do I prevent cross-contamination while handling raw pork?
Always wash your hands, knives, cutting boards, and any surfaces that have come in contact with raw pork with hot soapy water to prevent the spread of bacteria.