Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Ribs

4.93 from 13 votes

Sticky, sweet, and savory, these slow cooker honey garlic ribs are so easy to make and turn out perfectly tender every time!

Prep Time10

Cook Time6

Total Time6 10

Servings:

Combine the onion powder, paprika, and cumin, and rub the ribs with dry rub.
½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika powder, ½ teaspoon cumin, 1 spare rib rack
Mince the garlic and combine with the dark soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, and honey. Brush over the ribs. Save some of the marinade.
4 garlic cloves, ¼ cup dark soy sauce, ¼ cup sweet soy sauce, ¼ cup raw honey
Cut the ribs in half and place them in the slow cooker. Cook for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Brush the rack of ribs every hour with the remaining marinade. Check for doneness by ensuring the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

For best results, choose high-quality spare ribs with good marbling for tenderness and flavor. Baby back ribs are another great option.
For extra depth of flavor, add a teaspoon of ground ginger to the spice rub, or a bit of sesame oil to the marinade.
For a shortcut, use jarred minced garlic or garlic paste in place of the fresh garlic.
A nice variation is to layer sliced onions, bell peppers, or any other vegetables of your choice at the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a bed for the ribs and adds more flavor to the finished dish.
Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices.
For a pretty presentation, sprinkle chopped green onions or sesame seeds on top for garnish and added flavor.
Serve with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.