How To Cook Ribs In The Instant Pot

Are you craving delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs but don’t have hours to spend tending to a smoker or grill? Well, worry no more! With the Instant Pot, you can have mouthwatering ribs ready in a fraction of the time. In this article, we’ll walk you through step-by-step on how to cook ribs in the Instant Pot, so you can satisfy your cravings in no time.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a list of ingredients for cooking ribs in the Instant Pot:

1 rack of baby back ribs
Dry rub or your favorite spices (paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, etc.)
BBQ sauce or your preferred sauce for glazing
1 cup of water or broth

Prepping the Ribs

The first step in cooking ribs in the Instant Pot is to prepare the ribs. Start by removing the membrane from the back of the rack if it hasn’t been removed by your butcher. This will ensure that your ribs become tender and flavorful.

Next, generously apply your dry rub or spices to both sides of the ribs. This is where you can get creative and customize the flavors to your liking. Make sure to massage the spices into every inch of the meat.

Setting Up the Instant Pot

Now it’s time to get your Instant Pot ready for action. Place the trivet that came with your Instant Pot at the bottom of the pot. This will elevate the ribs and prevent them from sitting in the liquid, ensuring a moist and tender result.

Pour 1 cup of water or broth into the Instant Pot. The liquid will create steam that will help cook the ribs under pressure.

Cooking the Ribs

Place the seasoned ribs on the trivet, making sure they are not touching the sides of the pot. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position.

For baby back ribs, cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes. If you are using spare ribs, you may need to increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes. It’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the ribs and your preferred tenderness.

Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 10 minutes, and then carefully release any remaining pressure using the quick release method.

Finishing Touches

After you’ve cooked the ribs under pressure, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Preheat your oven broiler or fire up your grill while you brush the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce or glaze. Transfer the ribs to a baking sheet or grill and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has caramelized and developed a beautiful glaze.

Once the ribs are perfectly glazed, remove them from the oven or grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy ribs.

Serving and Enjoying

Finally, it’s time to slice and serve your mouthwatering ribs. Cut between the bones with a sharp knife and watch as the meat effortlessly falls off the bone. Serve with your favorite sides like cornbread, coleslaw, or baked beans, and get ready to indulge in a truly satisfying meal.

So there you have it, a quick and easy method for cooking tender and flavorful ribs in the Instant Pot. With just a little prep work and the help of your trusty Instant Pot, you can enjoy delicious ribs whenever the craving strikes.

Now it’s time to gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!

Want to share your experiences with cooking ribs in the Instant Pot or have any tips to add? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum!

FAQ:

Can I cook frozen ribs in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook frozen ribs in the Instant Pot. However, it is recommended to thaw them first for even cooking and better flavor absorption. If you’re short on time, you can still cook frozen ribs, but they may take longer to cook and may not be as tender as thawed ones.

How long does it take to cook ribs in the Instant Pot?

The cooking time for ribs in the Instant Pot can vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs. On average, it takes about 25-30 minutes of pressure cooking time. Keep in mind that this does not include the time it takes to reach pressure or natural pressure release.

Do I need to add liquid when cooking ribs in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you will need to add liquid to the Instant Pot when cooking ribs. The liquid helps to create steam and build pressure, allowing the ribs to cook properly. You can use broth, water, or even apple juice to add flavor to the ribs.

Should I use the rack when cooking ribs in the Instant Pot?

Using the rack is not necessary when cooking ribs in the Instant Pot, but it can help elevate the ribs and prevent them from sticking to the bottom. If you have a rack that fits in your Instant Pot, you can use it. Otherwise, you can cook the ribs directly in the liquid.

Can I add barbecue sauce before pressure cooking ribs in the Instant Pot?

It is not recommended to add barbecue sauce before pressure cooking ribs in the Instant Pot. The high heat and pressure can cause the sauce to burn and create a mess. It’s best to add the barbecue sauce after pressure cooking, either by broiling or grilling the ribs for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce.

How do I achieve a smoky flavor when cooking ribs in the Instant Pot?

While the Instant Pot does not provide a smoky flavor, you can still achieve it by adding liquid smoke to the cooking liquid. Liquid smoke is a concentrated flavor that mimics the smokiness of cooking over a barbecue. Add a few drops to the liquid in the Instant Pot to infuse the ribs with a smoky taste.

Can I finish the ribs on the grill after pressure cooking them in the Instant Pot?

Absolutely! To enhance the flavor and texture, you can finish the ribs on the grill after pressure cooking them in the Instant Pot. Simply brush the cooked ribs with barbecue sauce and grill them for a few minutes on each side until they develop a nice char and caramelization.

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How To Cook Ribs In The Instant Pot