This isn't just any old freezer meal; it's the answer to all your barbecue dreams. Imagine a world where the perfect rib rub is always at your fingertips, ready to transform a humble rack of ribs into a masterpiece of flavor.
This BBQ Ribs recipe may surprise you because it is clean and preservative free. Years ago I started to take on the Whole 30 challenge every year in January, in eating clean whole food recipes I felt 1000 times better and I love sharing easy homemade foods that satisfy your taste buds and body all at the same time.
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Rib Rub Freezer Meal Recipe
Hannah Stewart
This isn't just any old freezer meal; it's the answer to all your barbecue dreams. Imagine a world where the perfect rib rub is always at your fingertips, ready to transform a humble rack of ribs into a masterpiece of flavor.
Prepare a gallon freezer bag, labeling according to your preferred method.
Add all ingredients, except BBQ sauce and water, into gallon freezer bag. Shake bag to evenly coat ribs with spices.
Seal bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to three months.
Slow Cooker Directions:
Thaw freezer bag in fridge 12-24 hours before cooking.
Add freezer bag contents into slow cooker, plus 1 cup water.
Cook on low 8-10 hours.
Remove ribs from slow cooker and serve with BBQ sauce.
Notes
You can use a bbq sauce instead of dry rub if desired and follow the same cooking directions for a delicious rib! Use 2 cups sauce if this is the route you take.
This recipe is paleo because of the coconut sugar. You can use regular granulated sugar or brown sugar if desired.
Keyword Best Rib Recipe, Best Rib Rub Recipe, crockpot dinners, Easy Dinner, Slow Cooker Recipes
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Your Questions Answered
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Why you’ll love this BBQ Ribs recipe
Allergy-Friendly: Free of gluten, dairy, and other common allergens, this recipe is a win for those with food intolerances and allergies. Potluck Hero: A crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings without the hours of slaving over a hot stove or grill. Family Favorite: Who doesn’t love ribs? Both kids and adults will be pleased with this dinner. No Grilling Required: Enjoy mouthwatering BBQ flavor without the need for outdoor grilling.
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Popular Substitutions
Substitutions: BBQ Sauce: Instead of a dry rub, buy or make your favorite Whole 30-compliant BBQ sauce. BBQ Dry Rub: Instead of making your own BBQ dry rub, feel free to find a Whole 30-compliant BBQ dry rub in your local grocery store.
How to reheat and store BBQ Ribs
The best way to store leftover BBQ Ribs is in an airtight container in the refridgerator.
How long will cooked BBQ Ribs last in the fridge?
If stored properly in an airtight container, cooked BBQ ribs will stay fresh in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Can I freeze BBQ Ribs?
We recommend freezing the ribs before cooking, not after. By freezing raw the recipe you preserve fresh flavor and texture, however if you freeze after cooking you can lose a lot of that freshness and end with a less desirable product.
How to reheat BBQ Ribs?
Microwave: Place ribs in a microwave safe dish, microwave on medium high for 3-5 minutes. Check to ensure fully heated (time may vary depending upon amount of ribs being reheated, adding 1-2 minutes as needed) Internal temperature should reach 130F
Oven: The best way to reheat BBQ ribs is in the oven, preheat to 275F, wrap the ribs in aluminum foil, place wrapped ribs in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. Cook for 15-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 130-165.
Are BBQ spare ribs healthy?
While BBQ spare ribs can be a part of a well-balanced diet, they typically aren’t labeled as a health food due to their high fat content. You could occasionally indulge by pairing them with a Whole 30-approved sauce that has no added sugars.
How many ribs can feed 30 people?
For 30 people, 8 to 10 racks of ribs should suffice, depending on the size of the racks and what you plan to serve alongside the ribs. Be mindful that each rack usually contains 10 to 12 ribs.
Are baby back ribs pork or beef?
Baby back ribs, known for their tenderness and flavor, are cut from the back of the pig.
Can you smoke spare ribs at 300 degrees?
300 degrees is a higher temperature than the traditional method of low-and-slow cooking. If you choose to cook your spare ribs at this temperature, the ribs will have a different texture. And though it will take less time, to avoid overcooking, be sure to monitor them closely.
What is the healthiest cut of ribs?
Baby back ribs are a leaner cut of ribs and therefore are a great option for those who follow a Whole 30-approved diet. Baby back ribs have less fat than spare ribs, so they are a better choice for anyone wanting to reduce their fat intake.
What is the 3-2-1 rule for smoking ribs?
The 3-2-1 rule consists of 3 hours of smoking ribs unwrapped, 2 hours wrapped in foil with added liquid, and finishing with 1 hour of smoking without foil. Balancing cooking time with moisture retention results in tender, flavorful ribs.
Do you flip ribs when smoking them?
The indirect heat and slow-cooking process that the 3-2-1 method encompasses ensures they cook evenly and end with a flavorful bark on the top side. Because of this, it is not necessary to flip ribs when smoking them.
What does apple cider vinegar do to ribs?
Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy flavor to ribs and helps tenderize the meat throughout the cooking process. You can add it to your marinade or mop sauce when smoking ribs.
Should I wrap my ribs in foil when smoking them?
The “Texas crutch” is the nickname for wrapping ribs in foil when smoking them, and it certainly can help with accelerating the cooking and tenderizing process. Don’t fret, though – wrapping your ribs is a personal preference, dependent upon the result you’re looking for.
How often do you spritz ribs?
To keep the ribs moist and add flavor during the smoking process, spritz a mixture of apple cider vinegar, water, or other liquids every 30 to 60 minutes.
Should I spray or mop ribs?
Spraying and mopping are equally effective methods for adding moisture and flavor to ribs during smoking. As you may guess, mopping involves using a brush or mop to apply liquid directly on the ribs, while spraying is a lighter application. The choice between these methods depends on your preference and desired results.
If you like this recipe here are some other whole 30 recipes you’re sure to love:
As a full time working mom of four, I know how hard it is to find time (or energy) to cook. That’s why I’ve spent over a decade perfecting freezer meal recipes to make sure they’re not only quick to prepare but packed with flavors the whole family will love!
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