If you’re a fan of BBQ and bold flavors, you’re in for a treat with these irresistible smoked ribs with pineapple. This mouthwatering combination brings together the deep, smoky essence of slow-cooked ribs with the vibrant sweetness of pineapple, creating a taste sensation that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking to spice up a family dinner, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds.

The magic of this dish lies in its perfect balance of flavors. The smokiness of the ribs, achieved through hours of careful smoking, pairs beautifully with the caramelized pineapple glaze, which adds a delightful tropical twist. This unexpected flavor combination not only elevates the traditional smoked ribs recipe but also brings a fresh and exciting element to your BBQ repertoire. Get ready to impress your guests and take your grilling skills to the next level with these delectable smoked ribs with pineapple.

smoked pork ribs with a pineapple glaze on a white plate with a gray background

How to Avoid Dry and Flavorless Pork Ribs

Rib meat is located close to the bone and contains a large amount of connective tissue and fat. Therefore, it needs to be cooked over low heat for an extended period of time. When ribs are properly prepared, the meat should be tender and moist.

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Cooking your pork ribs slowly and at a low temperature will help them to cook evenly and prevent them from becoming dry. A smoker is perfect for cooking ribs because it can reduce heat and slowly cooks the meat while also adding delicious flavor to it. Using aluminum foil to cover the grates or disposable aluminum pans filled with water can help maintain moisture and control heat.

A smoker will also use moisture and humidity to cook your ribs, which keeps them from drying out. Moisture is one of the key ingredients when it comes to saving tough, dry meat.

You can also add moisture to your pork ribs by using a marinade or a sauce. A marinade is a liquid that you soak the pork ribs in before you cook them. A sauce is typically a mixture of sugar, spices, and liquid that you brush on the meat while it’s cooking.

Glazes can also help to add moisture and flavor. A glaze is a sauce that you put on your pork ribs directly after they are cooked. The pineapple glaze in this recipe is a great example of a delicious glaze that will help to keep your pork ribs moist.

Purpose of Dry Rubs with Brown Sugar on Smoked Meat

One of the best ways to add flavor and texture to smoked meat is by using a dry rub. A dry rub is made up of spices, herbs, and other seasonings that are rubbed into the surface of the meat prior to cooking. Use a baking sheet to apply the dry rub and rest the ribs before cooking. This adds tons of flavor while also creating a nice, crispy outer crust on the meat.

Dry rubs are a great way to add flavor to meats without using a lot of extra fat or calories. This recipe for a paprika-based dry rub is easy to make and can be used on chicken, pork, or beef.

Simply mix together all of the ingredients and apply it to the meat before cooking. The spices will create a flavorful crust that will locked in the natural juices of the meat.

For best results, let the rub sit on the meat for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Ribs in smoker - pineapple glazed pork ribs

Creating Perfectly Smoked Ribs

Although the process of smoking back ribs isn’t complicated, there are several things that could prevent you from making the perfect rack.

One of the most important things to consider when smoking ribs is the temperature and humidity levels of your smoker. You want to make sure that you are maintaining optimal temperatures throughout the entire cooking process.

In addition, it’s also important to pay attention to the rub or sauce that you are using on your ribs. Using a high-quality rub or sauce can make a huge difference when it comes to the overall texture and flavor of your ribs.

Once you have mastered the art of smoking ribs, you will be able to create deliciously flavorful and tender meat every time!

BBQ side dishes - pineapple glazed pork ribs

What to Serve with Smoked Ribs and BBQ Sauce

Smoked ribs are the perfect dish to serve at any BBQ or gathering, as they are always a crowd-pleaser. Consider serving grilled pineapple as a side dish to enhance the tropical flavors of your meal.

Some great side dishes recipes that go well with smoked ribs include coleslaw, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, corn on the cob, and baked beans.

You can also add a little extra flavor to your ribs by serving them with a some honey or extra pineapple glaze as a sauce.

Whether you’re grilling outdoors during the summer months or cooking up these delicious pork ribs on a cold winter day, they are sure to be a hit at your next get-together!

Smoked Pork Ribs with Pineapple Glaze

Yield: Full rack of ribs

Prep Time: 1 hour

Cook Time: 3 hours

Total Time: 4 hours

Ingredients

3 lbs. pork ribs

Dry Rub

1 tsp. paprika
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
¼ tsp. cayenne pepper
1 tsp. brown sugar

Glaze

¼ c. pineapple juice
2 Tbsp. brown sugar
¼ c. ketchup
2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

Soak wood and start coals about 1 hour before starting the meat.
Once the coals are white, place the soaked wood on the coals and a pan of water in the top of the smoker (refer to the owner’s manual for your smoker since models may vary in design). The temperature gauge on the smoker should also register in the “ideal” range.
In a small bowl, mix together ingredients for the rub with a dry whisk.
Place ribs in a baking dish, sprinkle rub onto ribs and rub in. Turn meat over and repeat on other side. Make sure ribs are well coated on all sides.
Place the ribs on the rack in your smoker and close the lid. Let smoke 2 - 3 hours.
Towards the end of the cooking time (last 30 minutes) prepare the glaze.
In a small saucepan, combine pineapple juice, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, 2 Tbsp. brown sugar, and crushed pineapple.
Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and simmer for 8 – 10 minutes until it is thickened and has reduced by 1/3.
Reserve half of the glaze for serving. Brush the ribs with the remaining glaze.
Ribs are done when the bones are exposed at the tips and the meat is tender. You can test them with a fork to see if the meat falls off the bone.

Final Thoughts

Smoked ribs with pineapple are more than just a delightful culinary treat; they embody the essence of combining bold, smoky flavors with the sweet, tropical zest of pineapple. This unique pairing not only enhances the natural richness of the ribs but also introduces a vibrant twist that excites the palate. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a special family dinner, this full rib recipe promises to elevate your meal into a memorable feast.

As you savor each bite of these succulent smoked ribs, remember that cooking is about more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating moments of joy and connection. The process of smoking ribs, with its slow, deliberate pace, encourages us to appreciate the art of cooking and the satisfaction that comes with it. So, gather your loved ones, fire up the smoker, and let the tantalizing aroma of these pineapple-glazed ribs fill the air. Share your culinary journey and experiences in the comments below; I’d love to hear how this dish brought a touch of sweetness and togetherness to your home.

Irresistible Smoked Ribs with Pineapple: You Won’t Believe This Flavor Combination!

Table of Contents

How to Avoid Dry and Flavorless Pork Ribs

Purpose of Dry Rubs with Brown Sugar on Smoked Meat

Creating Perfectly Smoked Ribs

What to Serve with Smoked Ribs and BBQ Sauce