I love pork ribs when the meat falls off the bone and I find the the easiest way to make that happen is with slow cooking. And the ol fashioned crock pot is perfect for me! You can also make these in the oven, cooking at 200 for a few hours.
What I like the best about this recipe, is there isn’t a bunch of added sugar you’d find with traditional sauces used on BBQ ribs. The apples are sweet enough. Coupled with some spices and you’ve got yourself a tasty treat! This has become a bit of a signature dish of mine. I keep on tweaking it and I think this version is a home run!
Ingredients:
2-4 Tablespoons coconut oil or avocado oil
2 gloves garlic, sliced thin
2-3 lbs pork ribs
4 large apples, cored and cut into chunks
1 leek, sliced or 1 onion cut into small wedges
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 1/2 tsp Real salt
3 tablespoons ground coffee (optional)
1 tablespoon maple syrup
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon molasses (optional)
Directions:
1.Rub the meat with salt 1-2 hours prior to cooking. If you don’t have time to wait the 1-2 hours, don’t worry about it. The meat just tastes more flavorful if allowed to sit.
2. Pour 2 Tbsp of oil into a large heavy skillet (I prefer my cast iron skillet). Heat on medium high for 3-5 minutes. Add the ribs and sear on each side for about 3-5 minutes on each side. Remove the ribs and place on a plate.
3. Add the spices and coffee grounds (if using them) to the skillet and let them cook for about 3 minutes to allow the spice’s aroma to open.
4. Add either leeks or onions and saute for about 10 minutes. Then add apples and cook for another 10 minutes. Remove mixture from the pan and place into the crock pot.
5. Mix the remaining ingredients together in a small bowl, along with 1 Tbsp. of water. Add this mixture to the skillet and cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes. Part of this is to absorb all of the spices. Then pour the mixture over the ribs.
6. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 5 hours-until the meat falls off the bone.
7. This step is optional. If you have an audience that likes a little Primal BBQ sauce glaze, remove and place the ribs on a foil lined baking pan and brush with a paleo BBQ sauce. Broil on high for 2 minutes to carmelize.
My favorite way to serve these is over my cauliflower mash and with my infamous coleslaw!
Thanks Cindy
I’m going to make them for a New Year’s Eve dinner party I’m hosting.
Very cool Diane! Let me know how they turn out! Happy New Years!