Today, I’m sharing a recipe that will transport your taste buds to a tropical Hawaiian luau, right from the comfort of your own home—luau slow cooker short ribs. This dish is a wonderful way to bring a bit of island flavor to our Midwestern tables. Ribs are a staple in any heartwarming meal that brings family together, and when infused with the sweet, tangy taste of pineapple and traditional Hawaiian seasonings, they become something truly special.
These tropical-flavored short ribs pair beautifully with a side of sticky rice, which helps soak up all that delicious sauce. For a more refreshing touch, a simple cucumber salad or a crisp coleslaw can balance the rich flavors. And why not keep the island theme going? A scoop of macaroni salad or some roasted sweet potatoes would complement the ribs perfectly.
Luau Slow Cooker Short RibsServings: 6
Ingredients
3 lbs beef short ribs
1 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
Directions
1. In the slow cooker, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and beef broth.
2. Add the short ribs to the slow cooker, making sure they are coated well in the sauce mixture.
3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the meat is tender.
4. Once the ribs are cooked, transfer them to a plate and cover to keep warm.
5. Skim off any fat from the surface of the cooking liquid.
6. Mix cornstarch and water together in a small bowl to make a slurry. Pour this into the cooker.
7. Increase the heat to high and let the sauce thicken for about 15-20 minutes.
8. Return the ribs to the thickened sauce to reheat for a few minutes.
9. Serve the ribs garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Variations & Tips
For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce. If you're looking for a more traditional Hawaiian flavor, try adding a tablespoon of hoisin sauce. And for those who enjoy a bit of texture, consider throwing in some chopped bell peppers or carrots during the last hour of cooking.
