How to Cook Country Style Beef Ribs: Oven, Crock Pot, and Slow Cooker
Country style beef ribs are tender and full of flavor. They can be cooked in the oven, crock pot, or slow cooker. These ribs are loved for their rich taste and soft texture when cooked right. We’ll look at how to cook them perfectly, along with the key ingredients and tips to make your meal better.
Table of Contents
Understanding Country Style Beef Ribs
Country style beef ribs are a standout for their savory and tender taste. They come from the chuck or rib section of the cow. This makes them similar to a chuck roast but with a unique flavor.
As you learn to cook country style beef ribs, knowing what makes them great is key. This knowledge helps you get the best results in the kitchen.
What Are Country Style Beef Ribs?
Country style beef ribs are a boneless cut from the chuck and rib sections. They are known for their rich flavor and tender texture. This makes them perfect for slow-cooking methods like braising or smoking.
Unlike traditional bone-in beef ribs, country style ribs are easier to handle. This makes them simpler to prepare and serve.
Best Cuts to Choose
When picking country style beef ribs, look for good marbling. Marbling is the fat that makes the meat juicy and flavorful. The fatty layer on top of the ribs is also a quality indicator.
Choose cuts that look fresh and have a vibrant red color. Avoid those with discoloration or drying.
Meat Quality and Marbling
The quality of the beef is crucial for country style ribs. Cuts with good marbling from the chuck or rib sections are best. This ensures tender and flavorful results.
Look for ribs with fat evenly distributed in the muscle. This ensures the meat stays moist and succulent during cooking.
| Beef Rib Cut | Marbling | Meat Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Country Style Beef Ribs | Excellent Marbling | Tender and Juicy |
| Bone-In Beef Ribs | Moderate Marbling | Flavorful but can be Tougher |
| Beef Back Ribs | Lean, Less Marbling | Leaner, Can Become Dry |
Understanding country style beef ribs helps you make delicious dishes. This versatile cut is sure to impress your guests.
Essential Equipment and Tools
Preparing delicious country style beef ribs requires the right tools. You’ll need a covered roaster, a slow cooker, or a crock pot. A covered roaster is great for slow-cooking, keeping meat moist and tender.
These cooking vessels are easy to find and won’t break the bank. They’re a smart choice for any home cook.
Slow cookers and crock pots are also great for cooking ribs. They cook meat low and slow, making it tender. Choose a tool that fits the size of your ribs.
Consider getting a digital meat thermometer too. It helps you check the ribs’ internal temperature. This ensures they’re cooked just right for the best taste and texture.
“The key to perfectly cooked country style beef ribs is all in the equipment. A covered roaster, slow cooker, or crock pot will give you the best results, every time.”
Key Ingredients for Perfect Country Style Beef Ribs
Creating delicious country style beef ribs starts with the right ingredients. You need the perfect proteins and seasonings. Each part adds to the flavor and texture of this dish.
Base Ingredients
The recipe centers around boneless beef country ribs. Choose high-quality, marbled cuts for tenderness and flavor. Onions add depth and sweetness to the dish.
Seasonings and Spices
For the best flavor, mix garlic salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add tarragon and bay leaves for a complex taste. Try adding root beer or vanilla extract to your spice rub for a unique flavor.
Sauce Options
The sauce is the final touch. You can make your own BBQ sauce or use Sweet Baby Ray’s. The sauce glazes the ribs and enhances the spice blend’s flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless Beef Country Ribs | 3-4 lbs |
| Onions, diced | 2 medium |
| Root Beer | 1 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| BBQ Sauce | 1 cup |
| Garlic Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black Pepper | 1 tsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp |
| Tarragon | 1 tsp |
| Bay Leaves | 2 |
With these ingredients, you’re set to make amazing country style beef ribs. Your guests will love the rich flavors of your dish!
Preparing the Ribs Before Cooking
To make perfect country-style beef ribs, preparation is key. Start by making a flavorful spice rub. This rub will add amazing aromas and flavor to the meat. Mix brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Then, rub it all over the ribs.
This spice rub will bring out the natural beef taste. It also gives a tasty base for cooking.
For more flavor, marinate the ribs. Use a mix of root beer, vanilla extract, and soy sauce. This marinade tenderizes the meat and adds sweetness and umami. Let the ribs soak in this marinade for at least 30 minutes. Or, up to 24 hours for even more seasoning.
- Create a spice rub by mixing brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Apply the spice rub evenly over the country-style beef ribs.
- For added flavor, marinate the ribs in a mixture of root beer, vanilla extract, and soy sauce for 30 minutes to 24 hours.
“The secret to mouthwatering country-style beef ribs lies in the preparation. With a few simple steps, you can unlock a world of flavor.”
By preparing the ribs well, you’re ready for a tasty cooking experience. Whether you use the oven, slow cooker, or crock pot, the ribs will be tender and full of flavor. The spice rub and marinade make sure every bite is delicious.
Oven-Baked Country Style Beef Ribs Method
To make mouthwatering oven-baked country-style beef ribs, find the right balance between slow and low cooking. First, heat your oven to 325°F. Put the seasoned ribs in a covered roasting pan and cook for 2.5 hours. This lets the flavors mix well and the meat get tender.
Temperature Settings
After 2.5 hours, turn the oven to 350°F. This higher heat will make the ribs’ outside crispy. It also keeps the juices inside, making the ribs even tastier.
Cooking Duration
It takes about 3 hours to cook the ribs in the oven. This slow cooking makes the meat tender and juicy. It prevents the meat from drying out.
Basting Techniques
Basting the ribs with the cooking liquid in the last 30 minutes makes a big difference. It adds more flavor to the meat and makes it look glossy. You can also try adding gravy mix to the basting liquid for more taste.
“The secret to perfectly tender oven-baked country-style beef ribs is all in the low and slow cooking method. The patient approach allows the flavors to fully develop and the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth delicious.”
Slow Cooker Technique for Tender Results
Slow cooking is the secret to tender slow cooker ribs. Cooking country style beef ribs low and slow makes them melt-in-your-mouth. This method is perfect for busy days or lazy weekends.
To start, put your seasoned ribs in the slow cooker. Add a can of root beer, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, and your favorite seasonings. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours. Then, stir in a packet of gravy mix for the last hour to thicken the sauce.
The result is fall-off-the-bone ribs that melt in your mouth. Serve these slow cooker ribs with your favorite sides for a comforting meal. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless Country Style Pork Ribs | 1.5 lbs |
| Root Beer | 12 oz can |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| Gravy Mix | 1 packet |
This slow cooker recipe for country style beef ribs has over a million views. It’s one of the most popular rib dishes. By using this simple technique, you can make tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs that will delight your taste buds.
“The best slow cooker ribs I’ve ever made! They were so tender and flavorful. I’ll definitely be using this recipe again.”
Crock Pot Cooking Instructions
Cooking country-style ribs in a crock pot is easy and convenient. The secret to delicious crock pot ribs is layering and controlling the temperature.
Layering Ingredients
Begin by placing the crock pot ribs at the bottom. Make sure they’re in a single layer, with big pieces in the middle. Then, pour barbecue sauce over them, covering them well. Add diced onions on top for extra flavor.
Timing and Temperature Control
- Set the crock pot to low for 4-6 hours. This layering technique and cooking time makes the ribs tender and flavorful.
- Check the ribs after 4 hours. They should be tender and the internal temperature should be at least 145°F. Keep cooking until they’re easily pulled apart.
Being patient is important for crock pot ribs. The slow cooking makes the ribs tender. The sauce and onions keep the meat moist and tasty.
Follow these easy crock pot cooking instructions for tender ribs. Serve them with your favorite sides for a delicious meal.
Creating the Perfect Sauce and Au Jus
Make your country-style beef ribs even better with a tasty sauce and au jus. The key to a great sauce is the cooking liquid. It turns into a rich, savory sauce.
Begin by mixing the cooking liquid with onion gravy mix. This mix adds a deep flavor that goes well with the beef. To make it thicker, simmer it and add a cornstarch slurry. This makes a smooth sauce perfect for drizzling over the ribs or as a dip.
The au jus, or cooking liquid, is also essential. Serve it with the ribs for guests to enjoy the juices. It’s also great for making more sauces or gravies, adding more flavor to your dish.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 117 |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 534mg |
With the right sauce and au jus, your beef ribs will be a hit. Serve them hot with the sauce and au jus on the side. Your family and friends will love every bite.
“The secret to a great sauce is in the cooking liquid. Transform it into a rich, velvety accompaniment that brings out the best in your country-style beef ribs.”
Side Dish Pairings and Serving Suggestions
When you serve country-style beef ribs, the right sides make a big difference. You can choose from classic favorites like mashed potatoes and green beans or try something new. This way, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and well-rounded.
Traditional Sides
Classic sides for country-style beef ribs include creamy mashed potatoes, tender green beans, and zesty baked beans. These options offer a great mix of flavors and textures. They perfectly complement the rich taste of the ribs.
Modern Accompaniments
- Serve the ribs over fluffy egg noodles or fragrant white rice for a fuller meal.
- Add chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley for a pop of color and herbal flavor.
- Roast a mix of seasonal side dishes like Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, or carrots. They add nutrition and flavor to your dish.
Choosing the right side dishes is key. You want to balance the bold flavors of the ribs with sides that offer different textures and tastes. Try out different combinations to find the perfect match that will impress your guests.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage and reheating are key to keeping leftover country-style beef ribs tasty. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months.
There are a few ways to reheat your ribs. For the oven, put them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, turning them now and then. For the microwave, heat in 1-2 minute intervals on 50% power, adding a bit of broth or water to keep them moist.
Make sure to heat the ribs well and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This lets the juices spread out evenly. Your leftover ribs will taste as good as when they were first cooked.
