If there’s one dish that can instantly elevate your barbecue game, it’s ribs. Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, ribs are a crowd favorite. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve that savory perfection without the long wait.
Perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings, these easy Instant Pot ribs promise to satisfy your cravings with minimal effort. Ready to impress? Let’s get cooking!
Steps
- If needed, remove the membranes from the back of the ribs by flipping them over and pulling off the membrane with your fingers or a butter knife.
- Rub your chosen seasonings over both sides of the ribs to enhance their flavor.
- Place a wire trivet rack in the bottom of the Instant Pot, then add water, apple juice (or apple cider vinegar), and optional liquid smoke for a smokey taste.
- Position the ribs upright in the pot with the meat side facing outward; if using a single rack, curl it around the pot.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid, close the vent, and set it to “manual” or “pressure cook” on high pressure for 25 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes before performing a quick release by turning the valve.
- Carefully transfer the ribs to a large foil-lined baking sheet, coat them with BBQ sauce, and broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 rack of baby back ribs or spare ribs
- Spice rub seasoning (for both sides of ribs)
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of apple juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke (optional)
- BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
FAQ
- What types of ribs are best for cooking in an Instant Pot?
- Baby back ribs are recommended for this recipe, but spare ribs can also be used. Keep in mind that cooking times will differ based on the type of ribs and your altitude.
- How long should I cook ribs in the Instant Pot?
- For baby back ribs, cook them for 25-30 minutes. For spare ribs, extend the cooking time to 30-35 minutes. Adjust the time based on your altitude and desired tenderness.
- How do I remove the membrane from the ribs?
- Flip the ribs so the meaty side faces down. Use your fingers or a butter knife to slide under the membrane and pull it off. This step is essential for optimal tenderness.
- What size Instant Pot is needed for cooking ribs?
- A 6-quart or larger Instant Pot is ideal for cooking ribs effectively.
- Can I add extra flavor to the ribs?
- Yes, adding liquid smoke alongside water and apple juice or apple cider vinegar can enhance the smoky flavor of the ribs.
Tips
- Remove the Membrane: Before cooking, ensure any white, shiny membrane on the back of the ribs is removed. This can be done by sliding a butter knife under the membrane and peeling it off with your fingers.
- Use Liquid Smoke for Flavor: Adding liquid smoke to the liquid in the pot can enhance the smoky flavor of the ribs, giving them a delicious BBQ taste.
- Broil for Added Texture: After cooking, slather the ribs in your favorite BBQ sauce and broil them in the oven for a few minutes. This step helps caramelize the sauce and adds a slightly charred finish.
- Adjust Cooking Time Based on Rib Type and Elevation: Baby back ribs typically require 25-30 minutes of cooking, while spare ribs need 30-35 minutes. Remember to adjust the time slightly based on your altitude to achieve the desired tenderness.
Equipment
- Instant Pot (6 quart or larger)
- Wire Trivet Rack
