These Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs are a delicious and easy meal that combines the sweetness of pineapple with savory barbecue sauce and a touch of soy for a tropical twist on classic ribs. With just a few simple ingredients, the slow cooker does all the work, resulting in tender, flavorful ribs that fall off the bone.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 cup diced pineapples, fresh or canned (drained 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
Step 1: Season the Ribs
Season the pork ribs with salt and pepper on both sides. If the ribs are long, you can cut them into smaller sections to fit better in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
Step 3: Add Pineapples and Ribs to the Slow Cooker
Place the diced pineapples at the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange the seasoned ribs on top of the pineapples, then pour the prepared sauce over the ribs, making sure they are well coated.
Step 4: Cook the Ribs
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 145°F for pork).
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker and set them aside. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker and turn the heat to high. Let the sauce cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Serve
Place the ribs on a serving platter and drizzle the thickened sauce over them. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.
Cooking Notes:
- Rib Options: Baby back ribs are leaner, while spare ribs are meatier. Both work well in this recipe, so choose based on your preference.
- Pineapple Substitution: If you don’t have fresh or canned pineapple, you can use pineapple juice instead of diced pineapples and reduce the amount of liquid in the sauce slightly.
- Extra Flavor: For a smokier flavor, use a barbecue sauce with hickory or mesquite notes.
Variations:
1. Spicy Hawaiian Ribs
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a bit of heat.
2. Hawaiian Ribs with Coconut
For a tropical twist, stir in 1/4 cup of coconut milk during the last hour of cooking. It adds a creamy texture and subtle sweetness to the dish.
3. Honey Garlic Hawaiian Ribs
Swap the brown sugar for honey and add extra garlic for a sticky, sweet, and garlicky glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use beef ribs instead of pork ribs?
A: Yes, you can use beef ribs instead of pork ribs. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as beef ribs may take slightly longer to become tender.
Q: Can I prepare the ribs the night before?
A: Absolutely! You can season the ribs and prepare the sauce the night before. Store everything in the refrigerator, then simply transfer it to the slow cooker in the morning.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, these ribs freeze well. Once the ribs have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure that your barbecue sauce is gluten-free.
These Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs are an easy and flavorful meal that brings a tropical twist to classic barbecue ribs. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, and rich barbecue sauce makes for a delicious sauce that perfectly complements tender, slow-cooked pork ribs. Whether you’re preparing these ribs for a family dinner or a special occasion, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the irresistible flavors of Hawaiian-inspired ribs
