Don't laugh!! Ribs and crockpots question?

For shortribs he way I like to prepare them is "fresh" (not frozen. Or let them defrost for a day in the fridge). Then get a pan hot with a little shortening and brown the ribs, you can add a little water and simmer them for 10-15 minutes. Then add them to your crock pot. This gives them a GREAT browned/carmelized flavor and just a bit of texture.