Isn’t it amazing how an Instant Pot can bring so much ease to your cooking? It’s like having an extra pair of hands in the kitchen. I’ve been experimenting with mine since the day it was delivered, and let me tell you, it is a game changer. One of my favorite recipes, hands down, is the Instant Pot Ribs. It’s juicy, succulent, and the flavors are simply divine!
Now, do you ever wonder how restaurants create those lip-smacking ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender? Well, with this recipe, you won’t have to wonder anymore. Preparing ribs in an Instant Pot is as easy as pie, but instead of a sweet dessert, you end up with a savory, meaty feast.
The Magic of the Instant Pot
The beauty of using an Instant Pot is that it acts as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, steamer, and more, all in one. It’s like having a small kitchen army, ready to assist you in your culinary endeavors. When it comes to ribs, the Instant Pot ensures they are cooked evenly and thoroughly, while retaining their juicy tenderness.
Another advantage of the Instant Pot? Time. What normally takes hours of slow cooking, the Instant Pot accomplishes in less than an hour. It’s like having a time machine in your kitchen.
Choosing the Ribs
One crucial aspect of this recipe is selecting the right type of ribs. Baby back ribs tend to be the most popular due to their tender meat and they cook relatively fast. On the other hand, Spare ribs are larger and have more meat, but require a slightly longer cooking time.
Regardless of your choice, make sure your ribs are fresh and high-quality. This will ensure your Instant Pot Ribs turn out flavorful and tender.
Preparing the Ribs
Preparing the ribs for cooking is a simple yet important step. First, you’ll need to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This is not a task for the faint-hearted but trust me, it’s worth the effort. The membrane can be tough and chewy, so removing it results in a more tender rib.
Next, you’ll coat the ribs in a blend of aromatic spices. This spice rub permeates through the meat during the cooking process, resulting in a flavorful and fragrant dish.
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce
Instructions
- First, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and cut the racks in half.
- Combine all the dry ingredients to make the spice rub. Apply it generously on both sides of the ribs.
- Put the water, apple cider vinegar, and half of the barbecue sauce in the Instant Pot. Place the ribs in the pot.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to Meat/Stew setting. Cook for 25-30 minutes.
- Once the cooking is done, allow the pot to release pressure naturally. Remove the ribs carefully.
- Coat the ribs with the remaining barbecue sauce and broil for 5-10 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and starting to brown.
- Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Tips for Instant Pot Ribs
1. For an extra depth of flavor, you can replace the water with beer or apple juice. 2. If you have time, marinate the ribs with the spice rub overnight. 3. You can tweak the spice blend according to your preference.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This recipe results in the most tender, succulent, and flavorful ribs that are comparable to those cooked in a restaurant. The Instant Pot considerably reduces the cooking time, making it a great option for a quick yet satisfying meal. Plus, the easy preparation and minimal clean-up make this a must-try recipe for all rib lovers!
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 450 kcal