Step 1

Season ribs with salt, pepper, and BBQ rub if using. Pour 1/2 cup water into slow cooker, then place ribs in slow cooker. Scatter onion over top. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-8 hours, or HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until ribs are tender (see cooking notes).

Step 2

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Transfer ribs from the slow cooker to a baking sheet. Discard onion. Coat ribs with BBQ sauce. Bake ribs in oven about 10-15 minutes, or until sauce caramelizes. Let ribs sit for a few minutes, slice and serve with traditional BBQ side dishes.