Take your taste buds on a tropical journey with these succulent Hawaiian-Style Slow Cooker Ribs. This recipe infuses tender pork ribs with the sweet and savory flavors of pineapple, soy sauce, and brown sugar, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare, allowing the ribs to cook to perfection while you go about your day. Whether you’re hosting a luau or simply craving a taste of the islands, these ribs are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds pork ribs
- 12 ounces pineapple juice
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup vinegar
- ½ cup rice vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ⅓ cup water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, thinly sliced onion, vinegar, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and pepper. Stir well until the brown sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Prepare the Ribs:
- Cut the pork ribs into smaller sections, if necessary, to fit them into your slow cooker.
- Place the ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Cook the Ribs:
- After marinating, transfer the ribs and the marinade into your slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Once the ribs are cooked, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. Cover with foil to keep warm.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water to create a slurry.
- Pour the marinade from the slow cooker into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
- Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the thickened sauce over the ribs.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the marinade for a spicy version.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute the pineapple juice with a combination of orange and lemon juice for a different tropical flavor.
- Grill Finish: For a smoky finish, you can place the cooked ribs on a hot grill for a few minutes on each side after slow cooking, basting with the thickened sauce.
Keto Version:
- To make this recipe keto-friendly, replace the brown sugar with a keto-approved sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Ensure the pineapple juice is unsweetened, and use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Low Carb Version:
- Similar to the keto version, use a low-carb sweetener in place of brown sugar and ensure all other ingredients are low in carbs. Reduce the amount of pineapple juice if necessary and replace with more soy sauce or water
Hawaiian-Style Slow Cooker Ribs are a delicious and easy way to bring the flavors of the islands to your dinner table. With minimal preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs with a tropical twist. Perfect for family meals or entertaining guests, these ribs are sure to be a hit. Try this recipe today and savor the taste of paradise!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use beef ribs instead of pork ribs?
A: Yes, you can substitute beef ribs for pork ribs. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check for tenderness and adjust accordingly.
Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can cook the ribs in the oven. Place the ribs and marinade in a covered baking dish or foil packet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours, or until tender.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the marinated ribs?
A: Yes, you can freeze the marinated ribs. Place the ribs and marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Q: What sides go well with Hawaiian-Style Slow Cooker Ribs?
A: Serve these ribs with steamed rice, pineapple coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. Grilled vegetables or Hawaiian rolls also make great accompaniments.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of pineapple juice?
A: Yes, you can blend fresh pineapple to make juice if you prefer. Ensure it is well blended and strained to remove any pulp.
Enjoy your Hawaiian-Style Slow Cooker Ribs, a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite
