Craving a taste of the tropics without leaving the comfort of your home? Look no further than Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs! This mouthwatering recipe brings together tender pork ribs with the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple and barbecue sauce. Slow-cooked to perfection, these ribs are sure to transport your taste buds to a sunny Hawaiian paradise. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this irresistible dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs work great)
- 1 cup diced pineapples, fresh or canned (drain if using canned)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ribs: Season the pork ribs with salt and pepper to taste, then place them in the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapples, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the Sauce Over the Ribs: Pour the pineapple barbecue sauce mixture over the ribs in the slow cooker, ensuring that the ribs are evenly coated.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking to thicken it.
- Serve: Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon any remaining sauce from the slow cooker over the ribs, then garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Choosing the Right Ribs: Baby back ribs or spare ribs both work well for this recipe. Baby back ribs are more tender and leaner, while spare ribs have more fat and flavor.
- Grilling Option: For an extra layer of flavor, you can finish the ribs on the grill after they’re done cooking in the slow cooker. Simply brush them with additional barbecue sauce and grill them over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until lightly charred.
- Spicy Twist: Add a kick of heat to the sauce by incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple for this recipe. Simply peel and dice a ripe pineapple into small pieces.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and season the ribs in advance, then refrigerate them separately until ready to cook. When you’re ready, simply pour the sauce over the ribs in the slow cooker and cook as directed.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftover cooked ribs in an airtight container or resealable bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this recipe, you can use a sugar-free barbecue sauce and reduce the amount of brown sugar or omit it altogether. Additionally, you can serve the ribs with a side of cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables instead of traditional rice or potatoes.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs are a delightful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender texture and tropical flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these ribs are sure to impress. So fire up your slow cooker and give this recipe a try—it’s a taste of paradise in every bite!
