Savory Apple Butter Pork Ribs
These Savory Apple Butter Pork Ribs are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them a perfect main dish for any family gathering or weekend dinner. Slow-cooked to perfection in a crock pot, the pork ribs become tender and infused with the rich, tangy sweetness of apple butter, enhanced by the savory depth of onions and garlic. Serve them up with a side of mashed potatoes or coleslaw, and watch your guests rave about this comforting dish. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy family meal, these ribs are sure to impress!
4
Servings
700
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Country-style boneless pork ribs
3 lbs (Trim excess fat if necessary)
Salt
3/4 teaspoon (For seasoning)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (For seasoning)
Chopped onion
1 cup (Freshly chopped)
Apple butter
3/4 cup (Store-bought or homemade)
Brown sugar
3 tablespoons (Light or dark, as preferred)
Liquid smoke
1 teaspoon (Optional, for added smoky flavor)
Garlic cloves
2 (Finely chopped)
Instructions
1
Start by generously rubbing the country-style boneless pork ribs with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
2
Place the seasoned ribs into the bottom of your crock pot, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking.
3
Sprinkle the chopped onions evenly over the ribs, allowing their sweetness to infuse into the meat as it cooks.
4
In a separate bowl, combine the apple butter, brown sugar, liquid smoke (if using), and finely chopped garlic cloves. Mix well until fully blended.
5
Pour the apple butter mixture over the ribs and onions, ensuring everything is well coated.
6
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 9 hours, or until the ribs are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
7
Once done, serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the deliciously rich flavors!
Nutrition Information
50g
Fat
21g
Carbs
39g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Apple Butter Pork Ribs?
They are tender, slow-cooked pork ribs infused with a blend of sweet apple butter, brown sugar, and savory garlic and onions.
What type of ribs are used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for 3 lbs of country-style boneless pork ribs.
How long do the ribs need to cook in the crock pot?
The ribs should be cooked on the low setting for 9 hours until they are tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
Do I need to sear the meat before putting it in the slow cooker?
No, the instructions indicate you can place the seasoned ribs directly into the bottom of the crock pot.
What is the purpose of the liquid smoke?
Liquid smoke is an optional ingredient used to add a deeper, smoky flavor to the ribs, mimicking a barbecue style.
Can I use bone-in ribs instead of boneless?
While the recipe specifies boneless country-style ribs, bone-in ribs can be used, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Is there a specific preparation for the onions?
Yes, you should use 1 cup of freshly chopped onions sprinkled evenly over the meat.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 700 calories, 50g of fat, 21g of carbohydrates, and 39g of protein.
What should I serve with these apple butter ribs?
Common side dish recommendations include mashed potatoes or coleslaw to complement the sweet and savory flavors.
Can I use homemade apple butter?
Yes, you can use either store-bought or homemade apple butter for this recipe.
What is the protein content of this dish?
The dish provides a high protein content of 39g per serving.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe because it primarily involves layering ingredients in a slow cooker.
Should I trim the fat from the ribs?
The recipe suggests trimming excess fat from the pork ribs if necessary before seasoning.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe calls for 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped.
What type of sugar is best for the sauce?
You can use 3 tablespoons of either light or dark brown sugar, depending on your preference.
How do I know when the ribs are finished cooking?
The ribs are done when they are tender enough to be easily pulled apart with a fork.
Can I cook this recipe on high for a shorter time?
The instructions recommend cooking on low for 9 hours for maximum tenderness, but standard slow cooker conversions usually suggest 4-5 hours on high.
What seasoning is applied directly to the meat?
The meat is rubbed with 3/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper before other ingredients are added.
Does this recipe include many ingredients?
No, it is a simple recipe with only 8 total ingredients.
What categories does this dish fall under?
It is categorized as a main dish and a comfort food, often associated with family meals or barbecues.
Is the onion cooked before being added?
No, the raw chopped onion is sprinkled directly over the seasoned ribs in the crock pot.
Can I garnish the ribs?
Yes, the instructions suggest garnishing with fresh herbs when serving hot.
Is this dish sweet or savory?
It is both; the apple butter and brown sugar provide sweetness, while the garlic, onion, and pork provide savory depth.
How much apple butter is needed?
You will need 3/4 cup of apple butter for the sauce.
Do I need to stir the ribs while they cook?
No, you simply pour the mixture over the ribs and onions, cover, and let it cook undisturbed.
Is liquid smoke required for safety or just flavor?
Liquid smoke is strictly for flavor and is entirely optional based on your taste preference.
What kind of pot is required for this recipe?
This recipe is specifically designed for a slow cooker or crock pot.
How should I layer the ingredients?
Place seasoned ribs on the bottom, sprinkle onions on top, then pour the sauce mixture over everything.
Can this be a weekend dinner?
Yes, its slow-cooking nature makes it an ideal choice for a cozy weekend dinner or a family gathering.