Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider vinegar works well for added tanginess)
- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard (Dijon or yellow mustard are good choices)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 pounds beef back ribs
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a slow cooker, add 1 cup of water followed by 1 cup of ketchup.
- Incorporate a 6-ounce can of tomato paste into the mixture.
- Add 3/4 cup of brown sugar to the cooker, ensuring to break any clumps to help it dissolve smoothly.
- Pour in 1/2 cup of vinegar to introduce some acidity which will balance the sweetness of the sugar.
- Mix in 2 tablespoons of prepared mustard for a touch of spice and depth of flavor.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of salt to enhance all the flavors; mix well until all the ingredients are well combined and the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
- Cook the Ribs:
- Place the beef back ribs into the slow cooker. Toss them gently in the sauce until they are well coated.
- Set the slow cooker to the low temperature setting. Cover the pot and let the ribs cook for approximately 8 hours. The low and slow cooking process will make the ribs tender and allow them to absorb all the flavors of the sauce.
Tips:
- Variations in Ingredients and Cooking Time: If you prefer a less salty flavor or are cooking a larger batch of ribs, consider adjusting the salt and the amount of water. The magazine version of this recipe suggests using 4 pounds of beef short ribs, 1/4 cup of water, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt for a larger batch.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these tender ribs with a side of mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or your favorite steamed vegetables. Drizzle some of the cooking sauce over the ribs just before serving to enhance the flavor.
- Optional Enhancements: For an added kick, you could include a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika in the sauce to introduce a smoky or spicy element.
This version of the recipe ensures each step is clearly defined, making it easier to follow and ensuring delicious results.