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When the summer sun begins to set, I find myself dreaming of a grilling adventure filled with tantalizing aromas and family laughter. That’s when I absolutely crave these Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs — a recipe that perfectly marries sweet and savory goodness. You can practically smell the salty kiss of soy sauce mixed with the rich sweetness of brown sugar drifting through the yard, calling everyone to the table.

As the ribs sizzle on the grill, you’ll be transported to a backyard luau with every bite, and I promise even the pickiest eaters will be rushing back for seconds. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, these divine ribs are sure to steal the spotlight. With a simple marinade that brings out the richness of the meat and just the right touch of tropical flavor, you’ll find yourself wondering why fast food ever seemed like an option. Let’s fire up that grill and dive into this mouthwatering adventure!

Why Choose Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs?

Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of soy sauce and brown sugar transforms the ribs into a taste sensation that dances on your palate.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, grilling becomes an effortless delight that even beginner cooks can master.
Perfect for Gatherings: These ribs create a festive atmosphere, making them the star of any family BBQ or summer party.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tenderness: Slow-cooking ensures each bite is succulent and juicy, delighting everyone at the table.
Versatile Dish: Pair with grilled vegetables or coleslaw for a fresh side, creating a truly satisfying meal.
Make Ahead: Marinate a day in advance, and you’ll save time while ensuring maximum flavor—who wouldn’t love that?

Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs Ingredients

For the Marinade

Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and umami depth; consider using low-sodium options for a healthier dish.
Brown Sugar – Supplies sweetness to balance the savory notes; coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for a healthier twist.
Garlic – Brings aromatic flavor to the dish; fresh garlic is recommended over powder for a more vibrant taste.
Ginger – Contributes a zesty, warming flavor; fresh ginger enhances the profile much better than ground ginger.
Pineapple Juice – Provides sweetness and acidity, tenderizing the meat; freshly squeezed juice is ideal for the best flavor.
Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty aroma and depth; this ingredient enhances the Asian flavor—substitutes may not achieve the same richness.

For the Ribs

Short Ribs – The primary protein providing rich flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly; opt for well-marbled ribs for optimal juiciness.

With these Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs ingredients in hand, you’re all set for a grill session that will transport your taste buds straight to paradise!

How to Make Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs

Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and pineapple juice. Mix until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a sweet and savory base for your ribs.
Marinate Ribs: Place the short ribs into a zip-top bag or a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the ribs, seal the bag tightly or cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high temperature, making sure it’s nice and hot to achieve that perfect sear.
Grill Ribs: Remove the ribs from the marinade (and discard the marinade). Season with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Grill for about 5 minutes on each side, until the ribs are well-caramelized and tender.
Rest & Serve: Once grilled to perfection, remove the ribs from the heat and allow them to rest for 5 minutes. This step ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in juicy, flavorful bites.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to marinate the ribs up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor. Simply follow the marinade instructions, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and pineapple juice, then pour it over the short ribs in a zip-top bag or bowl. Seal tightly and refrigerate for optimal infusion. For the best results, grill the ribs fresh after marinating—this ensures they remain tender and juicy. If you have leftover cooked ribs, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, maintaining their deliciousness for quick weeknight meals!

Expert Tips for Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs

Marination Matters: Longer marination enhances flavor profoundly. Aim for at least overnight; just avoid marinating too long to prevent texture changes.
Grill Heat: Ensure your grill is preheated properly. Searing the ribs locks in juices and results in a beautiful caramelization.
Careful Cooking: Avoid overcooking the ribs. They should be tender but maintain a slight bite—aim for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Cooking Time: Grill for about 5 minutes per side, but keep an eye out for flare-ups. They can happen quickly and may burn the ribs.
Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled ribs rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, making them more succulent when served.

Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs Variations

Feel free to mix it up and tailor these ribs to fit your taste buds or dietary needs!

Baby Back Ribs: Swap short ribs for baby back ribs for a leaner, lighter option that still brings plenty of flavor. These also cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on the grill!
Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the marinade for a delightful spicy punch that will tantalize your taste buds. This twist will make palate-pleasing fireworks at your summer BBQs.
Citrus Blend: Use a combination of fresh orange and lime juices instead of just pineapple juice for a bright, zesty marinade that offers a refreshing burst of flavor. This is perfect for a tropical vibe on warm nights.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions into the marinade for added freshness and a layer of complexity that enhances the tropical flavors. This makes each bite feel like a mini escape.
Brown Sugar Alternatives: Try using coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique sweetness while embracing healthier choices. Each alternative will impart its own character to the dish!
Vegetarian Twist: Marinate firm tofu in the same marinade and grill it to perfection for a plant-based option that captures that sweet and savory magic. It’s an unexpected delight for friends and family alike.
Smoke and Spice: For an added smoky flavor, sprinkle some smoked paprika or use a touch of chipotle powder in the marinade. This combination will elevate your ribs with a new depth.
Ginger Zing: Increase the garlic and ginger for an extra punch of flavor that excites the senses. These aromatic ingredients are what make each bite so memorable and delightful.

Transform your grilling experience with these variations, and delight in the discovery of new flavors!

How to Store and Freeze Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs

Fridge: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their juicy texture and rich flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep the ribs longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, ensuring they stay moist.

Marinade Storage: If you have leftover marinade, it can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 5 days, but ensure it hasn’t been used with raw meat.

What to Serve with Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs?

Enhance your sunny backyard grill experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the sweet and savory flavors of these ribs.

Grilled Pineapple: This adds a tropical sweetness that echoes the flavors of the ribs, creating a harmonious blend that’s utterly refreshing.
Crispy Coleslaw: The cool crunch of a tangy coleslaw provides a lovely contrast to the tender ribs, balancing the meal. Pairing pork with tangy cabbage is a classic that never disappoints.
Sticky Rice: Its mild flavor and slightly chewy texture are perfect for soaking up the delicious BBQ sauce, enhancing every bite.
Garlic Green Beans: These sautéed green beans contribute a pop of color and a fresh, crisp element, elevating your plate to a whole new level. Their garlic flavor blends beautifully with the rib’s savory notes.
Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and a hint of crunch offer a delightful contrast to the rich, sticky ribs, making each mouthful a new adventure.
Mango Salsa: This zesty topping brings bright, fresh flavors that help cut through the richness of the ribs, making for a more balanced meal.
Coconut Rice: Creamy and lightly sweet, this rice will harmonize the tropical flair, amplifying the essence of the dish and transporting you straight to the islands.
Long Island Iced Tea: Enjoy a refreshing cocktail that complements the grilling atmosphere while its sweetness matches the savory profile of the ribs.
Banana Pudding: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic dessert. Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness provide a comforting close to your BBQ feast.

With these pairings, your Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs will shine even brighter, making unforgettable moments with family and friends.

Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when choosing short ribs?
When selecting short ribs, look for well-marbled meat with a good amount of fat interspersed throughout. This marbling will ensure that the ribs remain juicy and tender when cooked. Ideally, the meat should have a bright red color, with the bone exposed at the ends. Avoid ribs with dark spots or a grayish hue, as this can indicate they are not fresh.

How can I store leftover Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs?
Absolutely! To store your leftover ribs, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For the best results, ensure that they’ve cooled completely before sealing to avoid steam buildup, which can lead to sogginess. If you’ll be keeping them longer, freezing is a better option!

Can I freeze Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs?
Yes, you can freeze those delicious ribs! To do this, wrap the cooked ribs tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven or on the grill for the best flavor and texture.

What should I do if my ribs aren’t tender after grilling?
If your ribs turn out tough, they may not have been cooked long enough or at the right temperature. To fix this, you can simmer them in a bit of broth or water on the stovetop for about 30 minutes. This will help tenderize the meat further. Alternatively, you can wrap them in foil and bake in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for an additional hour. This method allows the ribs to slowly cook and retain moisture.

Are Asian Hawaiian BBQ Short Ribs suitable for various dietary needs?
Yes, they can be! If you’re concerned about allergies, be mindful of soy sauce, which contains gluten. You can substitute it with low-sodium or gluten-free soy sauce options for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Additionally, if someone is vegetarian or vegan, I recommend trying a plant-based meat substitute like jackfruit, marinated in a similar sauce for a tropical twist that fits their diet.

How long can I marinate the ribs for optimal flavor?
For the best flavor, marinate the ribs for at least 1 hour, but I often recommend marinating overnight. This longer marination allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, making it both succulent and tasty. However, be cautious not to marinate for more than 24 hours as it can alter the ribs’ texture.