Should you defrost ribs in microwave then cook crockpot?

It's not recommended to defrost ribs in the microwave before cooking them in a crockpot. Here's why:

* Uneven thawing: Microwaving can lead to uneven thawing, resulting in some parts of the ribs being cooked through while others are still frozen.

* Toughening: The heat from the microwave can toughen the meat, making it less tender and flavorful.

* Loss of moisture: Microwaving can dry out the ribs, leading to a less juicy and flavorful final product.

A better approach:

* Refrigerator thawing: The safest and most effective way to defrost ribs is to transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator. Allow at least 24 hours for every 5 pounds of ribs to thaw completely.

* Cold water thawing: Submerge the ribs in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. This method can take several hours, but it will ensure even thawing.

Once the ribs are fully thawed, you can safely cook them in the crockpot. Enjoy the delicious, tender results!