The Ultimate Barbecued Ribs

2 slabs baby back pork ribs (about 3 pounds)
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Extra-Virgin olive oil
2 bacon slices
2 tsp. dried thyme
1/2 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, smashed
2 cups ketchup
1 cup peach preserves
2 Tbsp. dijon mustard
2 Tbsp. brown sugar
1/4 cup molasses
2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. ground paprika

Set oven to broil. Place ribs on foil lined baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper. Broil in the oven for 5-10 minutes on each side to sear.

Meanwhile, prepare the sauce.

1. In large saucepan over medium heat, cook the bacon and thyme for 3-5 minutes to render the bacon fat and give the sauce a nice smoky taste. Remove bacon and discard.

2. Add the onion and garlic and cook slowly, without coloring, for 5 minutes. Add all the rest of the ingredients, give the sauce a stir and turn the heat to low.

When ribs are done broiling, cut each slab into individual rib pieces and place in large slow cooker. Pour the sauce over the ribs. Cook in slow cooker on low for 3 to 5 hours.

Serving Size: Makes 8 4-rib servings

Number of Servings: 8

Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user CMYANG.