Some recipes are more than just food—they’re a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs are one such recipe. These ribs are a mouthwatering combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, slow-cooked to tender perfection. Imagine fall-off-the-bone ribs glazed with a tropical pineapple and soy sauce mixture, infused with garlic and ginger, and finished with a hint of brown sugar. It’s a dish that feels like a special indulgence, whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a casual get-together with friends.

The first time I made these ribs, it was for a backyard party. I wanted something easy yet impressive, and this recipe caught my eye. As the ribs slow-cooked, the aroma of pineapple, garlic, and soy sauce filled the air, and my guests couldn’t stop asking, “What are you making? It smells amazing!” When I pulled the ribs out of the slow cooker, they were so tender that the meat practically fell off the bone. “These are incredible!” one friend exclaimed, reaching for seconds. Since then, Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs have become my go-to recipe for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike.

The first time I served these ribs, it was at a family reunion. My brother, who’s known for his grilling skills, had brought his famous smoked brisket, and I was a little nervous to present my humble slow-cooked ribs. But as soon as I placed them on the table, the sweet and tangy aroma started drawing everyone in. “What’s in these?” my niece asked, eyeing the ribs curiously. “Pineapple, soy sauce, and a few surprises,” I replied, trying to sound confident.

When everyone took their first bite, the room went quiet. Then came the murmurs of approval. “These are so good!” my dad said, reaching for another rib. Even my brother, the grilling king, nodded in approval. “You’ve got to give me this recipe,” he said with a smile. That day, my Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs became a family favorite, and they’ve been a staple at every gathering since.

Why These Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs?

Selling Points:

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, these ribs are perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sweet pineapple, tangy soy sauce, and savory spices creates a mouthwatering dish.
• Versatile: Serve them at summer barbecues, family dinners, or casual get-togethers.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to suit your taste.

What You Need for Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1/4 cup water (optional, for slurry)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs

1. Prepare the Ribs: If necessary, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and cut them into smaller sections to fit in the slow cooker.
2. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, ketchup, and rice vinegar.
3. Cook the Ribs: Place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender.
5. Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Remove the ribs from the slow cooker and set aside. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook on high for 10-15 minutes, until thickened.
6. Add Pineapple: Stir in the pineapple chunks during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the ribs to a serving platter, drizzle with the thickened sauce, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Tips for the Perfect Hawaiian Ribs

• Remove the Membrane: Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs ensures a more tender result.
• Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more brown sugar or rice vinegar to taste.
• Broil for Crispiness: For a caramelized finish, place the ribs on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes after cooking.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and ribs the night before for an even easier cooking process.

Substitutions and Variations

• Different Meats: Use beef short ribs or chicken thighs instead of pork ribs.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce.
• Spicy Version: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Fresh Pineapple: Use fresh pineapple chunks for a brighter, fresher flavor.

Make a Healthier Version

• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
• Less Sugar: Reduce the brown sugar or substitute with honey or maple syrup.
• Leaner Cuts: Opt for leaner cuts of meat or trim excess fat from the ribs.
• Extra Veggies: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Closing for Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs

These Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs are more than just a recipe—they’re a celebration of flavor, simplicity, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Whether you’re serving them at a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a casual get-together, these ribs are sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your batch turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs

Can I make these ribs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and ribs the night before and cook them the next day.

Can I freeze these ribs?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked ribs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, beef short ribs or chicken thighs work well with this recipe.

Can I make these ribs gluten-free?
Yes, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I cook these ribs in the oven?
Yes, bake them at 300°F (150°C) for 2.5-3 hours, basting occasionally with the sauce.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make these ribs spicier?
Yes, add sriracha, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.

Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, fresh pineapple adds a brighter, fresher flavor.

What’s the best way to serve these ribs?
Serve with steamed rice, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?
Yes, simmer the sauce on the stovetop to reduce and thicken it naturally.

These Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs are a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

Easy Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs

Recipe by Aisha DevCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)

• 1 cup pineapple juice

• 1/2 cup soy sauce

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

• 1/4 cup water (optional, for slurry)

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

• Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Directions

• Prepare the Ribs: If necessary, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and cut them into smaller sections to fit in the slow cooker.
• Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, ketchup, and rice vinegar.
• Cook the Ribs: Place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
• Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the ribs are tender.
• Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Remove the ribs from the slow cooker and set aside. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook on high for 10-15 minutes, until thickened.
• Add Pineapple: Stir in the pineapple chunks during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Garnish and Serve: Transfer the ribs to a serving platter, drizzle with the thickened sauce, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.