Pineapple Wrapped Ribs Recipe

It was a warm night day, and I had friends and family over for a backyard BBQ. I wanted to make something special, a dish everyone would remember and talk about for weeks. While shopping at the local market, a ripe, fragrant pineapple caught my eye.

Suddenly, I had an idea – why not mix the sweet taste of pineapple with the smoky flavor of BBQ ribs? And so, the Pineapple Wrapped Ribs Recipe came to life. If you’re a BBQ lover looking for something new and exciting, you’ve come to the right place.

Why Use the Smoking Method?

Flavor and Texture: The main advantage of using the smoking method is the depth of flavor and tender texture it imparts to the ribs. The smoke from wood chips or chunks adds layers of complexity to the meat, which pairs beautifully with the pineapple’s sweetness.

BBQ Experience: Smoking ribs creates an authentic BBQ experience, often enjoyed as a communal activity. The process itself, from preparing the smoker to monitoring the cooking, is part of the enjoyment and tradition.

Aromatic Appeal: The smell of ribs slowly smoking is enticing and sets the stage for a memorable meal. The aroma can make guests even more excited about the dish, enhancing their overall experience.

How to Make Pineapple Wrapped Ribs

Creating Pineapple Wrapped Ribs is a straightforward process that combines the art of grilling with the science of flavor pairing. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish at home.

Ingredients List

To make Pineapple Wrapped Ribs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 rack of St. Louis style spare ribs: These ribs are known for their rich flavor and meaty texture, perfect for grilling.
• 1/4 cup BBQ rub of your choice: The rub adds a layer of flavor to the ribs. We used JM Thomasson’s BBQ rub.
• 1 pineapple: Fresh pineapple provides the sweet and tangy element.
• 2 Tbsp Bourbon (optional): Bourbon enhances the flavors and adds a sophisticated touch.
• 1/4 cup Apple juice or apple moonshine: This is used for steaming the ribs, keeping them moist and adding an extra layer of flavor.
• 1/4 cup Water: To help with the steaming process.
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: We used Captain Jack’s tropical BBQ sauce for an added tropical twist.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start, ensure you have the following kitchen tools ready:

• Grill: We used a Kado grill, but any grill capable of maintaining a steady temperature will work.
• Wood chips or chunks: Cherry wood chips were used for their sweet, mild smoke.
• Grill grate and plate setter: Necessary for indirect cooking.
• Skewers: To secure the ribs around the pineapple.
• Butcher paper: For wrapping the ribs during the steaming process.
• Scissors: For trimming the butcher paper and skewers.
• Basting brush: For applying the BBQ sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 | Prepare the Ribs:

First, I score the membrane on the back of the ribs. Rub both sides generously with your favorite BBQ rub. Let the ribs sit to allow the rub to soak in while you prepare the grill.

Step 2 | Prepare the Grill:

Fire up your grill and add wood chips or chunks for smoke flavor. Set up for indirect cooking with a grill grate and plate setter.

Step 3 | Prepare the Pineapple:

Cut the top off the pineapple and skin it. Pour the pineapple with bourbon for extra flavor and rub lightly with BBQ rub(Optionally).

Step 4 | Assemble the Ribs and Pineapple:

Wrap the seasoned ribs around the pineapple. Secure the ribs to the pineapple using skewers. Trim the skewers for a clean look.

Step 5 | Cook the Ribs:

Place the pineapple and rib assembly on the grill. Close the lid and cook at 300-310°F for about 3 hours.

Step 6 | Wrap and Steam:

After 3 hours, remove the ribs and wrap them in butcher paper. Pour a small amount of apple juice or apple moonshine and water into the package for steaming. Return the wrapped ribs to the grill and cook for another 1-1.5 hours, or until tender.

Step 7 | Glaze and Finish:

Unwrap the ribs, pour BBQ sauce over them, and brush with BBQ sauce. Return to the grill for another 20-30 minutes to set the glaze.

Step 8 | Serve:

Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice between the ribs and serve with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

Special Tips To Make Dish Perfect

• Choosing Ribs: St. Louis style spare ribs are ideal due to their meaty nature and even cooking.
• Pineapple Selection: Choose a ripe pineapple for the best flavor. It should be slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet aroma.
• Bourbon: While optional, bourbon adds a depth of flavor. Choose a high-quality bourbon for the best results.
• Temperature Control: Maintaining a steady grill temperature is crucial for even cooking. Use a grill thermometer for accuracy.
• Wood Chips: Cherry wood chips impart a mild, sweet smoke that pairs well with the pineapple and ribs.

Recipe Variation

• Spicy Pineapple Wrapped Ribs: Add a kick by incorporating a spicy BBQ rub or chili powder into your favorite rub. Mix hot sauce into your BBQ sauce for an extra layer of heat.
• Honey-Glazed Pineapple Wrapped Ribs: For a sweeter twist, add a honey glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Mix 1/4 cup honey with 2 tablespoons soy sauce and brush over the ribs before finishing on the grill or in the oven.
• Asian-Inspired Pineapple Wrapped Ribs: Use an Asian-style marinade and BBQ rub. Marinate the ribs in soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and hoisin sauce. Glaze with an Asian BBQ sauce for a flavorful finish.
• Citrus Pineapple Wrapped Ribs: Add a citrusy flavor by marinating the ribs in orange juice, lime juice, and lemon zest. This gives the ribs a fresh, tangy taste that complements the pineapple perfectly.
• Herb-Infused Pineapple Wrapped Ribs: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and basil into your BBQ rub. This adds a fragrant, herbaceous note to the ribs, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes to Pair with Ribs

Complement your Pineapple Wrapped Ribs with these mouth-watering side dishes:

• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and corn complement the smoky ribs.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch.
• Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans matches the tropical flavors.
• Cornbread: A classic side that soaks up the delicious BBQ sauce.
• Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad balances the flavors perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is a great addition, offering a savory crunch that complements the tender, flavorful ribs.
• Tropical Fruit Salad: A fruit salad featuring mango, papaya, and kiwi can enhance the tropical theme of your meal. The fresh and juicy fruits provide a refreshing palate cleanser.
• Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese is a comfort food favorite that pairs wonderfully with the smoky ribs. Its richness complements the flavors perfectly.

How To Store Leftover And Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture:

1. Refrigerator: Place the ribs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
3. Reheating: Reheat the ribs in the oven at 250°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the ribs tough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Let me answer some questions you may ask:

Can I use a different type of ribs?

Yes, you can use baby back ribs or country-style ribs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these cuts may require less time on the grill.

Do I have to use bourbon?

No, the bourbon is optional and adds an extra layer of flavor. You can omit it if you prefer.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the ribs in a 300°F oven instead of grilling them. Follow the same instructions for cooking time and wrapping the ribs.

Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bourbon and use apple juice or apple cider instead.

Final Word

The Pineapple Wrapped Ribs Recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your BBQ game. The combination of smoky, savory ribs and sweet, juicy pineapple is truly a match made in heaven.

It’s a dish that not only impresses the taste buds but also adds a touch of innovation to your grilling repertoire. So, what are you waiting for? Fire up your grill and get ready to experience the ultimate fusion of flavors with this Pineapple Wrapped Ribs Recipe.