Indulge in Tropical Bliss: Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs
Transport your taste buds to the shores of Hawaii with our delectable Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs recipe. This dish combines the sweetness of pineapples with the savory goodness of tender pork ribs, creating a mouthwatering fusion of flavors that’s sure to delight your senses. Whether you’re hosting a luau-themed party or simply craving a taste of the islands, these succulent ribs cooked to perfection in the slow cooker will take you on a culinary journey you won’t soon forget.
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
Pro Tip: Choose high-quality pork ribs for the best flavor and texture.
Instructions:
- Prep the Ribs:
- If necessary, trim any excess fat from the pork ribs. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapples, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Mix until well combined.
- Layer and Cook:
- Place the seasoned pork ribs in the slow cooker. Pour the pineapple barbecue sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook the ribs on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cook for an additional 30 minutes on high heat, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the ribs are done cooking, remove them from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon the thickened sauce over the ribs and garnish with sliced green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Grill Option: If you prefer, you can grill the ribs instead of using the slow cooker. Simply marinate the ribs in the pineapple barbecue sauce for at least 1 hour before grilling.
- Spicy Twist: For an extra kick of flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pork ribs with tempeh or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Swap the brown sugar for a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Use a low-carb barbecue sauce that’s sweetened with natural ingredients like monk fruit or stevia.
Low-Carb Version:
- Reduce the amount of pineapple and barbecue sauce to lower the carb content of the dish.
- Serve the ribs with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad instead of traditional carb-heavy sides like rice or potatoes.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of the tropics, these tender pork ribs cooked low and slow will satisfy your cravings and leave you longing for more. Give this recipe a try and transport yourself to paradise with every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use boneless pork ribs for this recipe? A: While boneless pork ribs can be used, bone-in ribs will yield more flavor and tenderness. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if using boneless ribs.
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will add a vibrant flavor to the dish. Just be sure to dice it into small pieces to ensure even cooking.
Q: Can I freeze leftover ribs? A: Yes, leftover ribs can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
