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Nothing embodies the spirit of American summertime more than a plate full of tender, juicy, and flavorful BBQ ribs. This dish has been a staple at family gatherings, cookouts, and celebrations for generations. And while traditional BBQ sauce has its roots in the South, variations of this beloved dish have emerged from coast to coast. One such variation is our Slow-Cooked Tangy Orange BBQ Ribs, adding a refreshing citrusy twist to the quintessential BBQ flavor.

What sets this version apart is the addition of orange juice to the classic BBQ sauce, providing a unique tang that instantly elevates the dish. This infusion of Citrus not only tenderizes the meat but also imparts a distinctive sweet yet tart flavor profile that beautifully complements the smoky and spicy notes of the BBQ sauce. Slow cooking allows these flavors to deeply penetrate the ribs, resulting in an extraordinary melt-in-your-mouth experience that is both satisfying and addictive.

The burst of citrus from these Slow-Cooked Tangy Orange BBQ Ribs pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp salad or a generous portion of creamy coleslaw. Alternatively, serve it alongside grilled corn and a cold beer for the perfect summer barbecue. Either way, these ribs are a tantalizing treat that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. So, step up your BBQ game and give this Recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Main Ingredients

• 2 racks pork ribs (about 3 pounds each)
• 2 cups orange juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard

Seasonings and Spices

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Optional Toppings

• to taste fresh orange slices (for garnish)
• to taste chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Preparation

1. Prepare your ribs by rinsing them thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry using a paper towel.
   Tip: Make sure to remove the silvery membrane on the back of the ribs for a more tender result.
2. In a bowl, combine the orange juice, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated.
   Tip: For a smoother sauce, you can blend the mixture in a food processor or blender.

Cooking Instructions

1. Place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour the prepared sauce over them, making sure all sides are coated.
   Tip: You can cut the ribs into smaller sections to fit into the slow cooker if necessary.
2. Set the slow cooker to low heat and let the ribs cook for 7-8 hours. The ribs are ready when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
   Tip: Avoid removing the lid during the cooking process as the slow cooker loses heat and can interrupt the cooking process.

Finishing Touches

1. Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet.
   Tip: Be careful when removing the ribs as they will be very tender and could fall apart.
2. Preheat your oven’s broiler. Baste the ribs with some of the sauce from the slow cooker and broil them for 3-5 minutes until the sauce is caramelized and the ribs have a nice char.
   Tip: Keep a close eye on the ribs during this step to avoid burning them.
3. Serve the ribs hot, garnished with fresh orange slices and chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
   Tip: If desired, you can serve the ribs with extra sauce on the side for dipping.