Easy Ribs and Sauerkraut Slow Cooker Meal for Comfort Food
How Long Should I Slow Cook Ribs?
🧑🍳 Slow cook ribs on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours until they’re tender and easily fall apart. Cooking them slowly helps soften the meat for juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs. For added flavor, finish them under the broiler or on the grill for a crispy, caramelized finish.
This easy slow cooker ribs and sauerkraut recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a weekend feast. The pork ribs become incredibly tender and soak up the flavors of sauerkraut, apple, and caraway seeds. Browning the pork or beef ribs before slow cooking enhances the flavor, making this dish a favorite for everyone.
Slow cooker recipes are perfect for a tasty meal with minimal effort. This slow cooker ribs and sauerkraut recipe is a great example. The pork ribs become tender and flavorful as they cook slowly, while the tangy sauerkraut adds a unique twist. The rich sauce formed during cooking enhances the taste, making it a cozy and satisfying meal.
Whether you refer to it as a slow cooker or a crock pot, this recipe is ideal for individuals looking to enjoy a hearty and tasty dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of slow cooker recipes lies in their simplicity and ability to infuse flavors over an extended period, creating mouthwatering meals with minimal hands-on time.
So, if you’re craving a filling and delicious dinner that practically cooks itself, give this slow cooker ribs and sauerkraut recipe a try—it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Table of Contents
- Why Try This Slow Cooker Recipe
- Ribs and Sauerkraut Slow Cooker Recipe
- What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ribs and Sauerkraut
- Tips and Variations for Ribs and Sauerkraut Slow Cooker
- More Recipes to Try
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
Why Try This Slow Cooker Recipe
Slow cooker ribs and sauerkraut is a dish that stands out due to its delightful flavors and unique combination of ingredients. The addition of apple juice not only imparts natural sweetness but also complements the tanginess of the sauerkraut, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
The aromatic caraway seeds lend the dish a warm, earthy aroma, enhancing its overall taste profile. Meanwhile, the subtle sweetness from brown sugar enhances the savory elements without overpowering them, resulting in a well-rounded flavor experience.
For an extra burst of flavor, consider deglazing the pan used to brown the ribs with white wine. This simple yet effective technique helps incorporate all those delicious caramelized bits into the sauce, elevating the depth of flavor in the dish.
Small steps like this can make a significant difference in enhancing the overall taste and richness of slow cooker ribs and sauerkraut, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
Ribs and Sauerkraut Slow Cooker Recipe
Enjoy the comforting tastes of this simple German-inspired dish. It’s easy to make and will surely please everyone.
The tender pork ribs cook slowly with zesty sauerkraut, flavorful vegetables, and a touch of sweetness. This results in a delightful meal in your kitchen!
Get the recipe ingredients, instructions, and variations here.
Begin by preparing your ingredients as discussed earlier. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook the ribs until they are golden brown. Once browned, transfer the ribs to your slow cooker.
This recipe is great for a warm family dinner during the week. It will also impress your friends at the next potluck. Let’s begin!
Ingredients
To make this dish, you will need these easy-to-find ingredients:
- 3 lbs Country Style Boneless Pork Ribs: Country-style ribs are great for slow cooking. They become very tender and will almost fall apart.
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil: Use olive oil to brown the ribs, enhancing their rich flavor and natural taste.
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt: Season ribs with salt to get a better taste and help keep them moist while cooking. You can change the amount based on your preference.
- ½ tsp Pepper: Black pepper adds a mild spice to the ribs, which helps balance the flavor. You can try other types of pepper, like cayenne, if you want it spicier.
- 1 cup Chicken Broth: Use chicken broth to add a rich, savory depth to the dish. It helps to keep the ribs moist and enhances the overall flavor profile of the slow cooker ribs and sauerkraut.
Ingredients for Sauerkraut
The sauerkraut mixture makes the pork ribs taste even better. It adds a tangy and savory flavor that is great with the rich taste of the ribs. Here’s what you will need:
- 1 (24 oz) jar Good German Sauerkraut: This is fermented cabbage known for its unique tangy taste and many health benefits.
- 1 Tbsp Caraway Seeds: These seeds add a warm, sweet, and peppery flavor that goes well with the sauerkraut.
- ½ cup Apple Cider or Apple Juice: The slight sweetness of apple cider helps balance the sour taste of the sauerkraut. It also adds more depth to the flavor.
- 1 Apple, diced large: A big diced or chopped apple brings natural sweetness and some texture to the sauerkraut mixture.
Instructions
Browning the ribs before you put them in the slow cooker is very important. It brings more flavor and gives a nice crust to the ribs.
Season your ribs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, gently place the ribs in the skillet. Make sure you do not put too many in at once.
Cook the ribs for about 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Adjust cook time to create a tasty crust and adds flavor to the dish. After you brown the ribs, move them carefully to a large slow cooker.
With the ribs nicely browned and placed in the slow cooker, it’s time to mix in the other ingredients and let slow cooking do its job.
Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the browned ribs. This will infuse the ribs with delicious flavors as they cook.
Then, sprinkle the caraway seeds over the ribs and onions to enhance their warm and spicy taste.
Drain half of the sauerkraut juice and set aside. Add the drained sauerkraut and remaining juice to the slow cooker.
Mix in the diced apple with the sauerkraut. Pour apple juice and chicken broth over the sauerkraut and ribs.
Set your slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The ribs are ready when they’re super tender.
Before serving, taste the sauerkraut and ribs. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or spices if you need. For extra tang, add some reserved sauerkraut juice.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ribs and Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut, a flavorful and hearty dish, pairs perfectly with a variety of sides that complement its tangy flavors.
In Germany, it is commonly served with classic accompaniments such as potatoes, dumplings, or bread to soak up the delicious juices. Enhance your slow cooker ribs and sauerkraut meal by considering these delectable side dishes:
Mashed Potatoes: Silky-smooth mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the tanginess of sauerkraut and the tenderness of the ribs.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and red potatoes intensifies the robust flavors of the dish while adding a touch of sweetness.
German Potato Salad: This traditional salad featuring potatoes, vinegar, and onions offers a zesty and invigorating flavor profile that complements sauerkraut beautifully.
Rye Bread: A crusty loaf of rye bread serves as an ideal tool for sopping up the savory sauce and capturing every drop of flavor.
Spaetzle: Soft and pillowy German noodles known as spaetzle contribute a sense of comfort and satisfaction to the overall dining experience.
These side dishes not only enhance the culinary experience but also offer a range of textures and flavors that elevate the enjoyment of this classic dish.
Consider adding these options into your meal to create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.
Tips and Variations for Ribs and Sauerkraut Slow Cooker
Elevate your ribs and sauerkraut slow cooker dish with these creative variations that will tantalize your taste buds.
Swap out apple juice for white wine to add a tangy twist to the flavor profile. Explore unique tastes by experimenting with spices such as caraway seeds.
Use BBQ sauce or combine beer, brown sugar, mustard, and garlic powder for seasoning.
For those with a sweet tooth, try incorporating brown sugar into the mix for a delightful sweetness. Opt for country ribs instead of traditional pork ribs for a heartier meal. Infuse a hint of fruity goodness by adding apple cider to the mix.
These easy yet creative changes can elevate your classic German-inspired recipe, providing a new culinary experience with each bite. Enjoy exploring different flavors and textures in this beloved dish.
More Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed the recipe shared earlier, prepare to be delighted by a myriad of culinary creations that showcase the versatility of your kitchen appliances.
Whether you prefer the convenience of a crock pot or the efficiency of an Instant Pot, there is a world of flavors waiting to be explored. Check out our blog for even more delicious slow cooker recipes.
Instant Pot Short Ribs: Indulge in tender and flavorful short ribs that are cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time when using your trusty Instant Pot.
Slow Cooker Chili: Treat yourself to a hearty and comforting keto chili recipe that slowly simmers in your crock pot, allowing rich flavors to develop over time.
Slow Cooker Pot Roast: Enjoy a classic comfort food staple with ease using this flavorful slow cooker keto pot roast recipe.
Experimenting with different recipes not only adds excitement to your meals but also allows you to make the most out of your kitchen appliances. Embrace your inner chef and dive into a world of culinary possibilities!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Ribs for This Recipe?
It is best not to use frozen ribs for this recipe. Frozen ribs may take longer to cook and can make the dish less tender. To get good results, be sure to thaw your ribs in the refrigerator before putting them in your slow cooker.
Are Slow Cooker Ribs and Sauerkraut Keto-Friendly?
This recipe isn’t truly keto-friendly because it has apple cider and brown sugar. But you can make it keto-friendly easily. Just replace the brown sugar with a keto sweetener. Also, use sugar-free apple cider.
Final Thoughts
Enjoy the delicious taste of our slow cooker ribs and sauerkraut recipe, which promises a delightful experience.
This dish combines tender ribs with tangy sauerkraut for a tasty mix of savory and zesty flavors. Whether you’re a food lover or just enjoy a good meal, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds.
The simplicity of the cooking process makes this dish suitable for any occasion. By following the easy steps outlined in the recipe, you can create a hearty meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Elevate your culinary repertoire with this comforting dish that brings joy to your dining table.
Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying taste of these slow-cooked ribs and sauerkraut. Let the delightful aroma fill your kitchen as you relish each bite of this tasty dish. Bon appétit!