Pork ribs are a classic for a reason: they're flavorful, juicy, and relatively easy to make. This recipe for bay leaf and slow-cooked pork ribs is no exception. The ribs are first browned in a skillet to give them a nice crust, then they're transferred to a slow cooker and cooked with bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, garlic, and beef broth. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become fall-off-the-bone tender. Serve the ribs with your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Pork ribs have been a staple of American cuisine for centuries. They were first brought to the Americas by Spanish explorers in the 16th century, and they quickly became a favorite food of both Native Americans and European settlers. Ribs were typically cooked over an open fire or in a Dutch oven, and they were often seasoned with simple spices like salt and pepper. Over time, more elaborate recipes for pork ribs began to emerge, and today there are countless ways to cook this delicious dish. This recipe for bay leaf and slow-cooked pork ribs is a modern take on a classic, and it's sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Prep time: 30 | Cook time: 480 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
Pork ribs (1 rack)
Bay leaves (5-6)
Thyme (1 tsp)
Rosemary (1 tsp)
Garlic cloves (4)
Beef broth (2 cups)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Olive oil (1 tbsp)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Generously season the pork ribs with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Brown the ribs on all sides (approximately 2-3 minutes per side).
Transfer the ribs to a slow cooker.
Add bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, garlic and beef broth to the slow cooker.
Cover and cook for 6-8 hours on low or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Remove the ribs from the slow cooker and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Why It Works
Browning the ribs in a skillet before slow cooking them gives them a nice crust and helps to seal in the flavor.
Cooking the ribs in a slow cooker with bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, garlic, and beef broth infuses them with a rich and complex flavor.
Slow cooking the ribs for 6-8 hours allows the meat to become fall-off-the-bone tender.