Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Beef Ribs are a mouthwatering dish that combines tender beef ribs with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Cooking them in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the meat becomes fall-off-the-bone tender. This easy recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and it pairs wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes!

Ingredients

For the Ribs:

• 3-4 pounds beef ribs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for searing)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

1. Pat the beef ribs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs (Optional)

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step adds depth of flavor but can be skipped for quicker preparation.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Ribs

1. Place the seared (or raw) beef ribs in the slow cooker.
2. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the ribs are tender and the meat pulls away from the bone easily.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

1. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the ribs and transfer the sauce to a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for a few minutes until thickened.

Step 6: Serve

1. Return the ribs to the sauce to coat them. Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy with rice or mashed potatoes!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 6 Servings)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 0g

Healthier Alternatives

• Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content.
• Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.
• Serve with steamed vegetables instead of starch for a lighter meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes for a comforting side.
• A fresh salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Ensure ribs fit comfortably for even cooking.
• Not browning the ribs: Optional, but searing enhances flavor.
• Skipping the thickening step: Cornstarch makes a big difference in sauce texture.

Storing Tips

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Can also be frozen for up to 3 months, though texture may change slightly.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes! You can use pork ribs or chicken wings with the same honey garlic sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the honey garlic sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function for browning and then pressure cook for about 30-35 minutes.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for extra heat.