Crock Pot Chinese Ribs

Ingredients

• 4 lbs country-style pork ribs (separated)
• salt and pepper

SAUCE

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice or white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1-2 tablespoon fresh minced garlic (or to taste)
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon cold water
• hot cooked rice

Directions

1. 1

   In a bowl combine ketchup, honey, vinegar, soy sauce, five-spice powder, onion, ginger and garlic; pour into the slow-cooker.

2. 2

   Set oven heat to broil and set the rack 6 inches from heat source.

3. 3

   Season ribs with salt and pepper.

4. 4

   Place the ribs on a baking pan, then broil, turning once until browned (this should take about 10-12 minutes).

5. 5

   Transfer the ribs to the slow-cooker/crock pot; turn to coat with the sauce.

6. 6

   Cover the slow-cooker and cook on LOW heat for about 5-6 hours or until ribs are tender.

7. 7

   Transfer the ribs to a platter to keep warm.

8. 8

   Skim any fat from the top of the sauce.

9. 9

   Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat, cook until reduced to about 1 cup.

10. 10

    In a small cup whisk 1 tablespoon water with 1 teaspoon cornstarch; add to the simmering sauce; simmer until thickened.

11. 11

    Pour the sauce over the ribs and serve.

12. 12

    Serve with cooked rice.