My Hawaiian friend first showed me this recipe, and we’ve been eating it regularly since!

Picture this: a bite of tender ribs, coated in a sticky, sweet sauce with a tropical twist, thanks to a generous helping of diced pineapples. These Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs will transport you straight to the sandy shores of the islands, no matter if it’s snowing outside your Midwestern window. I love whipping up these ribs when I’m craving something exotic yet homey. The best part? The slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting, meaning I can focus on work or relax while dinner practically makes itself.

To complement the sweetness of the Hawaiian ribs, I like to serve them with a side of fluffy white rice—which soaks up that delicious sauce—and some steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad for a refreshing crunch. If you’re feeling extra fancy, go for a scoop of coconut rice and some grilled pineapple slices alongside your ribs for a full tropical experience.

Servings: 4-6 servings

– 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