Experience the fusion of flavors with this Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs recipe. This dish effortlessly marries the succulent taste of baby back ribs with the tangy, smoky goodness of barbecue sauce. Crafted with the efficiency of an Instant Pot, this recipe ensures you enjoy mouth-watering ribs in record time, right from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are quite straightforward and should be available in your local supermarket. However, take note of the 'pork dry rub' and the 'liquid smoke'. Pork dry rub is a mix of spices that imparts a flavor punch to the ribs. If it isn't available, you can make your own by combining paprika, brown sugar, dry mustard, and some other common spices. Liquid smoke, on the other hand, is a flavoring used to lend that distinctive smoky flavor. It should be located in the condiment or barbecue sauce aisle.
Decoding the Ingredients for Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Baby back ribs: These are the most important part of the recipe, providing the main source of protein. They are pork ribs from the loin section, known for being tender and flavorful.
Pork dry rub: This is a mix of spices that gives the ribs their flavor. It usually includes ingredients like paprika, brown sugar, and dry mustard.
Water: Used to create steam in the Instant Pot, which helps cook the ribs.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor to the ribs and helps tenderize them.
Liquid smoke: A flavoring that gives the ribs a smoky taste, as if they were cooked on a grill or smoker.
Barbecue sauce: This sauce will give the ribs their distinctive BBQ flavor. It's usually sweet, tangy, and a little bit spicy.
One reader, Derron Larue says:
This instant pot BBQ baby back ribs recipe is a game-changer! The ribs come out tender and flavorful, with minimal effort. The combination of the dry rub, liquid smoke, and barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for any occasion. I highly recommend trying this recipe – it's a definite crowd-pleaser!
Techniques Required for Making Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs
How to remove the membrane from the ribs: Use a paring knife to separate the thin transparent membrane on the inside of the ribs. Peel it away from the ribs. It should come off in one big piece.
How to rub the ribs with dry rub: Rub the ribs well on all sides with the dry rub. If possible, cover and let them rest in the fridge overnight.
How to cook the ribs in the Instant Pot: In the bottom of the Instant Pot, add foil balls or a rack to raise the ribs above the liquid. Pour the water, vinegar, and liquid smoke into the Instant Pot. Add the ribs, bending them to fit. Lock the pressure cooker and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Release the pressure naturally for 10 minutes, then vent off the remaining pressure.
How to broil the ribs: Remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and spread them out on a baking sheet. Brush them liberally with barbecue sauce, then broil on high heat for 5 minutes.
How to serve the ribs: Slice the ribs and serve with sides and extra sauce. Enjoy!
How To Make Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs
You don’t need to spend hours making the perfect BBQ baby back ribs with this recipe! All you need is an hour for that fall off the bone, juicy tenderness.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4lbsbaby back ribs,(2 full racks)
- ⅓cuppork dry rub
- ¾cupwater
- ¾cupapple cider vinegar
- ½tspliquid smoke,optional
- 2cupsbarbecue sauce
Instructions
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Working with one rack at a time, use a paring knife to separate the thin transparent membrane on the inside of the ribs. Peel it away from the ribs. It should come off in one big piece.
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Rub the ribs well on all sides with dry rub. If possible, cover and let rest in the fridge overnight.
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In the bottom of an Instant Pot, add some foil balls or a rack to raise the ribs above the liquid. Pour the water, vinegar, and liquid smoke into the instant pot.
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Add the ribs, bending them to fit. Lock the pressure cooker and cook on High pressure for 30 minutes. Release the pressure naturally for 10 minutes, then vent off the remaining pressure.
-
Remove the ribs from the instant pot and spread them out on a baking sheet. Brush liberally with barbecue sauce, then broil on high heat for 5 minutes.
-
Slice ribs and serve with sides and extra sauce. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 862.46kcal
- Fat: 50.93g
- Saturated Fat: 17.86g
- Trans Fat: 0.43g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 21.25g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.29g
- Carbohydrates: 39.15g
- Fiber: 0.86g
- Sugar: 31.81g
- Protein: 59.93g
- Cholesterol: 213.38mg
- Sodium: 1248.60mg
- Calcium: 129.54mg
- Potassium: 1016.60mg
- Iron: 3.03mg
- Vitamin A: 31.80µg
- Vitamin C: 0.62mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs
When removing the membrane from the baby back ribs, it can sometimes be slippery and difficult to grip. A handy trick is to use a paper towel to get a better grip on it. This will make it easier to peel off in one piece, ensuring your ribs are tender and flavorful after cooking.
Time-Saving Tips for Making BBQ Baby Back Ribs in an Instant Pot
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry rub and marinate the ribs the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Quick release: Use the quick release function on the Instant Pot to speed up the cooking process and reduce the overall cooking time.
Broil for finishing: Instead of slow cooking in the oven, broiling the ribs after pressure cooking gives them a delicious caramelized finish in a fraction of the time.
Use store-bought barbecue sauce: Opt for a quality store-bought barbecue sauce to save time on making it from scratch.
Invest in an Instant Pot: Investing in an Instant Pot can significantly reduce cooking time for various recipes, including baby back ribs.
Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs Recipe
baby back ribs - Substitute with pork spare ribs: Pork spare ribs are a great alternative with a similar texture and flavor profile, and they work well in the Instant Pot.
pork dry rub - Substitute with homemade dry rub: You can make your own dry rub using a combination of paprika, brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a personalized flavor.
water - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can add a touch of sweetness and complement the flavors in the dish, enhancing the overall taste of the ribs.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar provides a slightly milder acidity that can still tenderize the meat and add a tangy flavor to the dish.
liquid smoke - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can impart a smoky flavor similar to liquid smoke, adding depth to the dish without the need for a liquid smoke product.
barbecue sauce - Substitute with homemade barbecue sauce: Making your own barbecue sauce allows you to control the sweetness, tanginess, and spiciness, resulting in a more customized and flavorful sauce.
Best Way to Present BBQ Baby Back Ribs Made in an Instant Pot
Elevate the plating: When presenting the baby back ribs, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Arrange the ribs in a neat and organized manner, ensuring they are the focal point of the dish.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce colorful elements such as fresh herbs and pickled vegetables to add a pop of color to the plate. This will enhance the visual appeal and create a striking presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the ribs to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate with excessive garnishes, allowing the ribs to take center stage.
Emphasize texture: Incorporate contrasting textures by pairing the ribs with a crunchy slaw or a smooth, creamy side dish. This will add depth to the overall dining experience.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the finer details, such as wiping the plate edges to ensure a clean presentation. Every element on the plate should be meticulously placed to showcase precision and care in the plating process.
Garnish with finesse: Add a final touch of sophistication by garnishing the dish with delicate microgreens or edible flowers. This subtle addition will elevate the visual appeal and demonstrate a refined presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Instant Pot: A multi-functional pressure cooker that can be used for various cooking methods, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and steaming.
Paring knife: A small, sharp knife used for intricate cutting tasks, such as trimming, peeling, and slicing.
Foil balls or rack: Used to elevate the ribs above the liquid in the Instant Pot, allowing for even cooking and preventing the ribs from sitting in the liquid.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking and broiling foods in the oven.
Brush: A kitchen utensil with bristles, used for applying barbecue sauce onto the ribs.
Mixing bowl: Used for mixing the dry rub and barbecue sauce.
Basting brush: A kitchen tool with a long handle and a brush head, used for applying sauces or marinades to food.
Pressure cooker: A sealed pot that uses high pressure to cook food quickly.
Storing and Freezing Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Let the ribs cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the meat soggy.
To store in the fridge, place the cooked ribs in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the ribs:
- Wrap the ribs tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer will protect the ribs from freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped ribs in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible if using a bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
To reheat frozen ribs:
- Thaw the ribs in the refrigerator overnight.
- Unwrap the ribs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Brush with additional barbecue sauce if desired.
- Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
- For extra caramelization, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
You can also reheat the thawed ribs in the microwave, but they may not be as tender as oven-reheated ribs.
How To Reheat Leftover BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover ribs in aluminum foil, making sure they are completely sealed. place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. this method helps to retain the moisture in the meat and prevents the ribs from drying out.
If you prefer a crispier texture, unwrap the ribs and place them directly on the baking sheet. brush them with a little extra barbecue sauce and bake for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. place the ribs in a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a damp paper towel. microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. be careful not to overheat the ribs, as this can cause them to become tough and rubbery.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can use it to reheat your ribs while maintaining their original texture and moisture. place the ribs in a vacuum-sealed bag and submerge them in a water bath set to 140°F (60°C) for about 45 minutes, or until heated through.
For a smoky flavor, reheat your ribs on a grill. preheat your grill to medium-low heat and place the ribs on the grates. brush them with extra barbecue sauce and cook for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until heated through and slightly charred.
Interesting Fact About Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs Recipe is a popular dish in the southern United States. It is often cooked low and slow over a barbecue pit, but the Instant Pot allows for a quicker cooking time without sacrificing flavor or tenderness. This method of cooking ribs in the Instant Pot allows for the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. It's a great way to enjoy delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs without spending hours tending to a grill or smoker.
Is Making BBQ Baby Back Ribs in an Instant Pot Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this instant pot BBQ baby back ribs recipe is quite high. The use of affordable ingredients like baby back ribs and a simple dry rub makes it a budget-friendly option for a household. The addition of barbecue sauce and apple cider vinegar may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is reasonable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30. The delicious outcome and the ability to serve a family make it a worthwhile investment. Verdict: 9/10
Are Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for instant pot BBQ baby back ribs is not particularly healthy due to several factors:
- High in saturated fat: Pork ribs are naturally high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- Added sugar: The barbecue sauce likely contains a significant amount of added sugar, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems when consumed in large quantities.
- Sodium content: Both the dry rub and the barbecue sauce may contain high levels of sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health concerns.
- Lack of vegetables: This recipe does not include any vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and healthy diet.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Trim excess fat from the ribs before cooking to reduce the overall fat content.
- Use a low-sugar or sugar-free barbecue sauce to minimize added sugar intake.
- Create a dry rub with less salt and more herbs and spices for flavor without the added sodium.
- Serve the ribs with a side of grilled or roasted vegetables to increase the nutritional value of the meal.
- Use leaner cuts of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, as an alternative to ribs for a lower-fat option.
- Limit portion sizes and enjoy ribs as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
Editor's Opinion on This Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs Recipe
The Instant Pot BBQ baby back ribs recipe is a delightful way to achieve tender, flavorful ribs in a fraction of the time. The use of the Instant Pot ensures that the meat is succulent and falls off the bone, while the combination of dry rub, liquid smoke, and apple cider vinegar infuses the ribs with a rich, smoky flavor. The finishing touch of broiling with barbecue sauce adds a caramelized, sticky glaze that enhances the overall taste. This recipe is a fantastic option for those craving delicious, restaurant-quality ribs at home with minimal effort.
Enhance Your Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs Recipe:
This recipe guarantees succulent baby back ribs with a perfect balance of flavors. The pork dry rub infuses the meat with aromatic spices, while the combination of water, apple cider vinegar, and liquid smoke in the instant pot ensures tender, juicy ribs. The final touch of barbecue sauce adds a rich, smoky sweetness. Trust the process and savor the mouthwatering results.
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