Shortcut BBQ Ribs

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate
By Published

Do you love the taste of juicy, tender BBQ ribs but don't have the time or patience to slow cook them for hours?

Jump to recipePin it
Shortcut BBQ Ribs
Prep
5 min
Total
40 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. Preheat the grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat.

  2. Cut the ribs into 3 sections.

  3. In a large pot over medium heat, add the ribs and fill with enough water to cover them.

  4. Add about 1 tablespoon of salt.

  5. Bring the water to a boil and let the ribs simmer for 20 minutes.

  6. Drain the ribs and place them on a sheet pan.

  7. Use paper towels to dry the ribs thoroughly.

  8. In the meantime, prepare the spice rub by combining garlic, brown sugar, paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper in a small bowl.

  9. Spoon the spice mixture onto the ribs and rub it all over with your hands.

  10. Place the ribs on the grill or grill pan and cook for 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

  11. Brush barbecue sauce onto the ribs and cook for an additional 1 minute until they are lightly charred.

  12. Serve the ribs with barbecue sauce.

About this recipe

Do you love the taste of juicy, tender BBQ ribs but don't have the time or patience to slow cook them for hours? We've got a solution for you - shortcut BBQ ribs! In this article, we'll show you a quick and easy way to enjoy delicious ribs without compromising on flavor.

Why Shortcut BBQ Ribs?

Now, you might be wondering why you should take shortcuts when it comes to BBQ ribs. After all, isn't the slow cooking process what makes them so mouthwatering? While it's true that slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become fall-off-the-bone tender, sometimes we don't have hours to spare. That's where shortcut BBQ ribs come in - they are a convenient and time-saving alternative that still delivers on taste.

The Shortcut Method

So, how do you make shortcut BBQ ribs? It's simple! Instead of marinating and slow cooking the ribs for hours, you can achieve a similar result by using a pressure cooker or an Instant Pot. These kitchen appliances use steam and pressure to cook the meat quickly, resulting in tender and flavorful ribs in a fraction of the time.

Step 1Seasoning

Start by seasoning your ribs with your favorite dry rub or BBQ seasoning. This will add flavor to the meat and create a delicious crust when cooked.

Step 2Pressure Cooking

Place the seasoned ribs in the pressure cooker or Instant Pot, along with a cup of liquid such as broth or water. Close the lid and set the cooking time according to the manufacturer's instructions. Generally, it takes around 25-30 minutes to cook ribs in a pressure cooker.

Step 3Finishing on the Grill

Once the ribs are cooked in the pressure cooker, they will be tender and juicy. However, they might lack the smoky flavor and charred exterior that you get from traditional BBQ ribs. To achieve this, finish the ribs on a hot grill for a few minutes on each side. Brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a slow cooker instead of a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?

While a slow cooker can also be used to cook ribs, it will take much longer compared to a pressure cooker or Instant Pot. Slow cooking typically takes 6-8 hours, whereas the shortcut method only takes around 30 minutes.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought BBQ sauce works great for shortcut BBQ ribs. However, if you prefer a homemade sauce, feel free to make your own using your favorite recipe.

Can I use this shortcut method for other types of meat?

Yes, you can use the shortcut method for other types of meat as well. Chicken, beef, and pork chops can all be cooked quickly using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot.

How long should I grill the ribs?

Grill the ribs for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice char and the BBQ sauce caramelizes.

Can I use this method for baby back ribs?

Yes, this shortcut method works well for baby back ribs. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the ribs.

Can I freeze the cooked ribs?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked ribs for later use. Allow them to cool completely and then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator and then warm them up in the oven or on the grill.

Can I use this method for spare ribs?

Yes, this shortcut method works for spare ribs as well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as spare ribs are usually larger and thicker than baby back ribs.

Can I add additional seasonings or spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor of your shortcut BBQ ribs. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper are all popular choices.

In conclusion, shortcut BBQ ribs are a fantastic option for those who want to enjoy delicious ribs without spending hours in the kitchen. By using a pressure cooker or an Instant Pot, you can achieve tender and flavorful ribs in a fraction of the time. So, grab your favorite dry rub, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in mouthwatering BBQ goodness!

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

More sides

See all →