Hawaiian-Style Slow Cooker Ribs are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. These tender ribs are cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. The combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar gives the ribs a unique and delicious taste that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create these mouthwatering Hawaiian-Style Slow Cooker Ribs step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork ribs
- 12 ounces pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/3 cup water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
- Trim Ribs: Trim any excess fat from the pork ribs and cut them into individual portions if they are not already separated.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
- Mix Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, sliced onion, vinegar, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and pepper. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Ribs
- Arrange Ribs: Place the ribs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Add Marinade: Pour the marinade over the ribs, making sure they are well-coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
- Remove Ribs: Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. Cover with foil to keep warm.
- Prepare Thickener: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth.
- Thicken Sauce: Transfer the remaining liquid from the slow cooker to a saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Gradually stir in the cornstarch mixture, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Serve
- Glaze Ribs: Pour the thickened sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Garnish: Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Serving
- Serve: Serve the Hawaiian-Style Slow Cooker Ribs hot, accompanied by steamed rice and your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes
- Ribs: Baby back ribs or spare ribs work well for this recipe. Ensure they are fresh and trimmed of excess fat for the best results.
- Marinade: For a more intense flavor, marinate the ribs in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- Sauce: Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce to your liking by varying the amount of brown sugar and vinegar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, you can use beef ribs or even chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is tender and fully cooked.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can bake the ribs in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until tender. Cover them with foil to prevent drying out and baste with the marinade occasionally.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of Hawaiian-Style Slow Cooker Ribs, follow these modifications:
- Sugar: Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Soy Sauce: Use a low-sodium soy sauce or tamari.
- Thickener: Use xanthan gum or glucomannan instead of cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Hawaiian-Style Slow Cooker Ribs are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender texture and delicious glaze, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of the islands right at home!
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