Instant Pot® Ribs

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Are you craving tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs but don't want to spend hours slaving over a hot grill?

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Instant Pot® Ribs
Prep
10 min
Cook
25 min
Total
50 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. In a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot®), combine the juice, vinegar, and liquid smoke.

  2. Add the bay leaves.

  3. Place a trivet in the pot and put the ribs on top. Trim the ribs as necessary to fit.

  4. Close and lock the lid of the pressure cooker. Set the valve to the sealing position.

  5. Select high pressure and set the timer for 15 minutes.

  6. Allow the pressure to build for 10 to 15 minutes.

  7. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to release the pressure naturally for approximately 15 minutes.

  8. Unlock and remove the lid of the pressure cooker.

  9. If you prefer the ribs to have a slight pull when bitten and be able to brown them on the grill or broil, cook them on manual for 15 minutes on high pressure. If you want extra-tender, almost fall-off-the-bone ribs, cook them for 25 minutes.

About this recipe

Are you craving tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs but don't want to spend hours slaving over a hot grill? Look no further than the Instant Pot®! This versatile kitchen appliance can work wonders on ribs, delivering mouthwatering results in a fraction of the time. In this article, we'll explore the art of making Instant Pot® ribs and share some tips and tricks along the way.

Why Choose Instant Pot® for Ribs?

The Instant Pot® is like a superhero in the kitchen, capable of transforming tough cuts of meat into tender delicacies. It uses pressure cooking to infuse flavors into the ribs and break down connective tissues, resulting in juicy, succulent meat. With the Instant Pot®, you can achieve the same level of tenderness and flavor as traditional slow-cooked ribs, but in a fraction of the time.

The Perfect Rib Rub

Before we dive into the cooking process, it's essential to talk about the perfect rib rub. A good rib rub enhances the flavor of the meat and creates a delicious crust. It typically consists of a blend of spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and flavors to find your favorite combination.

Preparing the Ribs

When it comes to selecting your ribs, you have a few options. Baby back ribs are a popular choice due to their tenderness and quick cooking time. Spare ribs, on the other hand, have more fat and connective tissue, which can result in a richer flavor. Whichever type you choose, make sure to remove the membrane on the bone side for a more tender end result.

Cooking the Ribs in the Instant Pot®

Now it's time to fire up your Instant Pot® and get cooking. Start by adding a cup of liquid, such as broth or apple juice, to the pot. This will create steam and help cook the ribs evenly. Place a trivet inside the pot and arrange the ribs on top, making sure they don't overlap. Close the lid and set the pressure cooking time according to the recipe you're following.

Adding the Finishing Touch

Once the pressure cooking is complete, it's time to add the finishing touch to your ribs. You have two options: you can either transfer the ribs to a preheated grill or broiler to get that delicious caramelized crust, or you can brush them with your favorite barbecue sauce and broil them directly in the Instant Pot®. Both methods will give you mouthwatering results.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use frozen ribs in the Instant Pot®?

While it's possible to cook frozen ribs in the Instant Pot®, it's best to thaw them first for more even cooking and to ensure they reach the desired level of tenderness.

. How long do I cook ribs in the Instant Pot®?

The cooking time for ribs in the Instant Pot® can vary depending on the recipe and the type of ribs you're using. As a general guideline, baby back ribs usually cook in 25-30 minutes, while spare ribs may take 35-40 minutes.

. Can I use a dry rub instead of barbecue sauce?

Absolutely! Dry rubs can add a delicious crust and flavor to your ribs. Simply season the ribs with your favorite dry rub before pressure cooking them in the Instant Pot®.

. Can I cook ribs without a trivet in the Instant Pot®?

While using a trivet helps elevate the ribs and prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot, you can still cook them without one. Just make sure to add enough liquid to create steam and prevent burning.

. Can I use the Instant Pot® for other types of meat?

Definitely! The Instant Pot® is incredibly versatile and can be used to cook various types of meat, from chicken to beef. Experiment with different recipes and flavors to discover your favorite dishes.

. Can I make barbecue sauce in the Instant Pot®?

Absolutely! The Instant Pot® can be used to make homemade barbecue sauce, allowing you to customize the flavors and ingredients to your liking. Simply follow a barbecue sauce recipe and pressure cook the ingredients for the specified time.

. Can I add vegetables to the Instant Pot® with the ribs?

Yes, you can! Adding vegetables like onions, carrots, or potatoes to the Instant Pot® with the ribs can infuse them with delicious flavors. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted to ensure the veggies are cooked to your desired tenderness.

. Can I make ribs in advance and reheat them in the Instant Pot®?

Definitely! You can cook the ribs in advance, refrigerate them, and then reheat them in the Instant Pot® when you're ready to serve. Simply place the ribs in the pot, add a little liquid, and set the pressure cooking time to warm them up.

So, the next time you're craving mouthwatering ribs, don't hesitate to turn to your trusty Instant Pot®. With its time-saving abilities and tenderizing powers, you'll be enjoying fall-off-the-bone goodness in no time. Happy cooking!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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