Costillas de Cerdo con Piña (Pineapple Pork Ribs)
Welcome to the delicious world of Costillas de Cerdo con Piña, or Pineapple Pork Ribs! This mouthwatering dish is a beloved favorite in many Latin American countries, where the combination of savory pork and sweet pineapple creates a truly unique flavor. The recipe reflects the vibrant culture and culinary traditions of regions such as Mexico and Central America, where grilling meats and using fresh fruits are common.
What makes these ribs so appealing is their perfect balance of flavors — the tenderness of the pork beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the pineapple. These ribs are not only a fantastic main course for family dinners, but they’re also a hit at parties and barbecues. Let’s dive into this savory and sweet dish that will surely impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork Ribs | 2 pounds |
| Pineapple (fresh or canned) | 1 cup (chunks) |
| BBQ Sauce | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Cilantro (optional) | 1/4 cup (chopped) |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Ribs: Start by rinsing the pork ribs under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.
- Season the Ribs: In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Rub this mixture all over the ribs to enhance the flavor.
- Cook the Ribs: Preheat your grill or oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a grill, place the ribs directly on the grill. If using an oven, place them in a baking dish.
- Add the Pineapple: While the ribs are cooking, chop the pineapple into small chunks. You can add it to the ribs during the last 20 minutes of cooking to infuse the flavors.
- Apply BBQ Sauce: Brush your favorite BBQ sauce generously over the ribs in the last 10 minutes of cooking. This will give them a nice glaze.
- Check for Doneness: Cook the ribs for about 1.5 to 2 hours until they are tender. A good tip is to check if the meat pulls away easily from the bone.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, let the ribs rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like, and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 30 g | 60% |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g | 7% |
| Fats | 18 g | 28% |
| Sugar | 8 g | 16% |
| Vitamin C | 5 mg | 8% |
Tips and Tricks
- Try Different Sauces: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of BBQ sauce to find your favorite.
- Slow Cooking: For a more tender outcome, consider cooking them slowly in a slow cooker for several hours.
- Add Spice: If you like a kick, add chili powder or cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix.
- Resting Period: Always let the ribs rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
FAQs
What type of ribs should I use for Costillas de Cerdo con Piña?
You can use baby back ribs or spare ribs. Both work well for this recipe!
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes! Canned pineapple is a great alternative if fresh is not available. Just drain it before using.
How long do I need to marinate the ribs?
You don’t need to marinate them for a long time; a simple seasoning rub before cooking works well. However, if you want more flavor, marinating for a few hours is a good idea.
What can I serve with these ribs?
These ribs are perfect with rice, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables. Consider making a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Absolutely! You can cook them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours, just like the grill.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is not spicy unless you add a spice mix. The sweetness from the pineapple balances the savoriness of the pork.
How do I store leftover ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the ribs?
Yes, you can freeze the ribs before cooking or after. Just make sure they are well-wrapped and stored in a freezer-safe container.
What type of BBQ sauce works best?
It really depends on your taste! Sweet, spicy, or smoky BBQ sauces can all complement the flavors of the ribs and pineapple nicely.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone easily. Using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (65°C).
Enjoy making and tasting these Costillas de Cerdo con Piña! They’re sure to become a family favorite!
