Teriyaki Slow Cooker Ribs

Indulge your taste buds in a tantalizing fusion of sweet and savory flavors with this Pineapple Teriyaki Slow Cooker Ribs recipe. Perfect for busy days when you crave a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen, these tender ribs are infused with the irresistible taste of teriyaki sauce and pineapple juice. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these slow cooker ribs are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4-6 pounds)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 fresh pineapple, cored and cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Start by seasoning the pork ribs with salt and black pepper to taste. Place the ribs in the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Stir until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Pour Over the Ribs: Pour the teriyaki-pineapple sauce over the ribs in the slow cooker, ensuring that the ribs are evenly coated.
4. Add Pineapple Chunks: Scatter the chunks of fresh pineapple over the ribs in the slow cooker. The pineapple will add a burst of tropical sweetness to the dish as it cooks.
5. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the ribs on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can thicken it with cornstarch. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the ribs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve the ribs hot, garnished with additional pineapple chunks and chopped cilantro if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Prefer Beef Ribs? You can easily swap out the pork ribs for beef ribs if you prefer. Follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting the cooking time as needed based on the size and thickness of the beef ribs.
• Add Heat: If you like a bit of heat in your ribs, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture before pouring it over the ribs.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure that the teriyaki sauce you use is gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

• Keto Version: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Opt for a low-carb teriyaki sauce or make your own using soy sauce, water, and a keto-friendly sweetener.
• Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or omit it altogether to lower the carb content of the dish. Use a low-carb teriyaki sauce or make your own using low-carb ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless ribs for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use boneless ribs if you prefer. Keep in mind that boneless ribs may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I freeze leftover ribs? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover ribs for future enjoyment. Allow the ribs to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the ribs in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use canned pineapple chunks if fresh pineapple is not available. Just be sure to drain the canned pineapple before adding it to the slow cooker.

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of sweet teriyaki and tropical pineapple with this easy and flavorful Pineapple Teriyaki Slow Cooker Ribs recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these tender ribs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So fire up your slow cooker and treat yourself to a mouthwatering meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat!