Hawaiian-Style Slow Cooker Ribs

MEAT

Hawaiian-style slow cooker ribs are a fantastic choice for a flavorful, low-effort meal. The slow cooker ensures the ribs are tender and infused with a delicious tropical sauce. Here’s a recipe to make them:

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 pounds baby back ribs or St. Louis-style ribs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Hawaiian BBQ Sauce:

  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening, optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Ribs:
  • Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs if it’s still attached. This helps the ribs become more tender and allows flavors to penetrate better.
  • Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper.
  1. Brown the Ribs (Optional but Recommended):
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ribs and sear for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
  1. Prepare the Hawaiian BBQ Sauce:
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce.
  1. Slow Cook the Ribs:
  • Place the ribs in the slow cooker. Pour the Hawaiian BBQ sauce over the ribs, making sure they’re well coated.
  • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender and easily pull away from the bone.
  1. Finish the Ribs:
  • If you like a caramelized finish, transfer the cooked ribs to a baking sheet and brush with additional BBQ sauce. Broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes, watching closely, until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
  1. Serve:
  • Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with extra Hawaiian BBQ sauce on the side.
  • Great accompaniments include rice, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables.

Enjoy your tender, flavorful Hawaiian-style slow cooker ribs!

Similar Posts