Sprinkle spareribs with salt and pepper. Brown ribs for 30 minutes in a heavy skillet or broiler pan. Put alternate layers of spareribs, sauerkraut, cabbage, onion and apple in crockpot. Add caraway seeds or dill to water and pour over all. Cover and set to low for 6-8 hours. (High 4-5 hours). Stir several times during cooking when using high only.
Note: May be prepared using all sauerkraut or all cabbage if desired.