Slow Cooker Coca Cola Ribs: Fall-Off-The-Bone Deliciousness!

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress, look no further than Slow Cooker Coca Cola Ribs! This recipe combines the rich, savory flavors of tender ribs with the sweetness of Coca Cola and tangy barbecue sauce. Plus, it’s made in the slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it until dinnertime. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to create these finger-licking ribs, along with helpful cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4-5 pounds)
1 can (12 ounces) of Coca Cola
1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a bit of heat

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ribs:

Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs if it’s still attached. This will help the ribs cook more evenly and tenderize.

2. Season the Ribs:

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Rub this seasoning mixture generously all over the ribs, coating them evenly.

3. Slow Cooker Setup:

Pour the Coca Cola into the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seasoned ribs in the slow cooker, standing them up along the edge of the pot, with the meaty side facing outward.

4. Cook Low and Slow:

Cover the slow cooker and cook the ribs on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of the ribs.

5. Finish with Sauce:

About 30 minutes before the ribs are done, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and transfer them to a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce, covering them completely.

6. Broil for Crispy Finish:

Preheat your oven broiler to high. Place the baking sheet with the sauced ribs under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once caramelized, remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side, if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Precooking Ribs: Some cooks prefer to precook the ribs in the oven or grill before transferring them to the slow cooker. This can help reduce cooking time and intensify the flavor.
Customize the Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite barbecue sauce or experiment with different flavors to suit your taste preferences. From tangy and sweet to smoky and spicy, the choice is yours!
Bulk Cooking: This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for feeding a crowd at your next gathering or party. Simply adjust the ingredients and cooking time as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use diet cola instead of regular Coca Cola? A: While regular Coca Cola is traditionally used for its sweetness and flavor, you can substitute diet cola if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, as diet cola lacks the sugar content of regular soda.

Q: Can I freeze leftover cooked ribs? A: Yes, cooked ribs can be frozen for later enjoyment. Simply wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto:

Sugar-Free Barbecue Sauce: Look for a sugar-free or low-carb barbecue sauce to keep this recipe keto-friendly. You can also make your own keto-friendly barbecue sauce using natural sweeteners like erythritol or stevia.

Low-Carb:

Reduced Sugar: To lower the carb content of the dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar in the seasoning rub and opt for a low-sugar or sugar-free barbecue sauce. You can also omit the Coca Cola or use a diet version to further reduce carbs.

With its tender, juicy meat and irresistible flavor, Slow Cooker Coca Cola Ribs are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. So fire up your slow cooker, grab your ingredients, and treat yourself to a mouthwatering feast that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!