Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs

Imagine a lazy afternoon where the tantalizing aroma of sweet and savory ribs fills your kitchen, promising a taste of tropical paradise. Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs offer that very experience, effortlessly transporting you to a sun-soaked beach with each mouthwatering bite. This dish is not just about the food; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories that come together to create something truly special.

My fondest memory of these ribs involves a summer family reunion, where we gathered in the backyard for a laid-back barbecue. The slow cooker was a kitchen hero, doing the heavy lifting while we focused on laughter and stories. The ribs, tender and glistening with a rich pineapple-barbecue glaze, were the star of the show. Each bite was a perfect balance of sweet pineapple, tangy barbecue sauce, and a hint of ginger and garlic. The joy of sharing this meal with loved ones, paired with the ease of preparation, makes these Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs a dish close to my heart.

The slow cooker’s magic lies in its ability to infuse meat with flavor over time, turning even the most basic cuts of pork into a succulent feast. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply want a comforting meal after a busy day, these ribs are your ticket to a flavorful escape.

Servings: 4-6

INGREDIENTS:

2 pounds of pork ribs (either baby back or spare ribs)

1 cup of diced pineapple (fresh or canned, juice drained if canned)

1/2 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce

1/4 cup of soy sauce

3 tablespoons of brown sugar

2 cloves of garlic, finely minced

1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon of cornstarch

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional garnish: sliced green onions

DIRECTIONS:

Season the Ribs

Start by preparing the ribs. Generously season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper. For an added depth of flavor, you can cover the seasoned ribs and refrigerate them overnight. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat, making it more flavorful and tender when cooked.

Prepare the Sauce

In the bowl of your slow cooker, combine the barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. This mixture will form the base of your cooking liquid, offering a delicious combination of sweet, tangy, and umami flavors.

Add the Pineapple

Stir in the diced pineapple into the sauce mixture. The pineapple not only adds a delightful sweetness but also helps tenderize the meat, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Ensure the pineapple is evenly distributed in the sauce.

Arrange the Ribs

Place the seasoned ribs in the slow cooker, arranging them so that they are as submerged in the sauce as possible. This helps the ribs absorb all the wonderful flavors from the cooking liquid. If necessary, cut the ribs into smaller sections to fit them comfortably in the slow cooker …