Nothing beats a juicy rack of ribs straight off the grill, but not everyone has the time to smoke a slab for hours. Fortunately, with the Instant Pot, you can achieve the tenderness and flavor of slow-smoked ribs in a fraction of the time. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of cooking ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with flavor using your Instant Pot.When you’re short on time but don’t want to compromise on flavor, the Instant Pot is a game changer. This revolutionary appliance is perfect for busy cooks who crave the taste of slow-smoked meat but don’t have hours to spare. Cooking your ribs in an Instant Pot allows you to achieve the same tenderness and flavor you’d get from traditionally smoked ribs, but in a fraction of the time. In this guide, we’ll teach you how to create tender and delicious ribs using an Instant Pot. From selecting the right cut to seasoning and cooking, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about how to cook ribs in an Instant Pot. From selecting the right cut of meat, to preparing the ribs, to seasoning and cooking, we’ll provide you with the tips and tricks you need to create the juiciest, most tender ribs you’ve ever tasted. Cooking ribs can be intimidating, but with an Instant Pot, it’s easier than ever before. Even if you’ve never cooked ribs before, this guide will help you achieve delicious, fall-off-the-bone results. So, fire up your Instant Pot and let’s get started.
Prep Work
Preparing your ribs properly before cooking is essential to achieving fall-off-the-bone tenderness. As mentioned earlier, removing the silver skin from the back of the ribs is crucial to prevent a chewy texture. The silver skin is a thin, tough membrane that won’t break down during cooking and can make the meat tough to eat. To remove it, gently insert a butter knife between the membrane and meat at the end of the rack, then using a paper towel or dishcloth to grip the membrane firmly, pull it away from the meat in one piece. Once the silver skin is removed, cut your rack of ribs into manageable portions depending on the size of your Instant Pot. This will allow them to cook evenly and ensure that each bite is equally tender.
After cutting your ribs into portions, it’s important to season the meat with either a dry rub or marinade. Dry rubs are a blend of spices and herbs that enhance the flavor of the ribs while creating a crust on the surface. Marinades, on the other hand, are a combination of spices and acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice that penetrate the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. Whichever seasoning you choose, be sure to let the seasoning penetrate the meat by marinating it for at least an hour in the fridge before cooking. This will infuse the meat with the desired flavor.
The Instant Pot Cooking Process
Additionally, you can add an extra step to your preparation process that will elevate the flavor profile of your ribs. Smoky flavor can be added by sprinkling wood chips on top of the dry rub before cooking the ribs in the Instant Pot. This step is optional, but it can take your ribs to a whole new level especially if you don’t own a smoker. Another useful tip is to let the ribs sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them cook more evenly. Following these simple preparation steps will ensure that your ribs are not only juicy but flavorful as well.
To summarize, here are the steps you need to follow to properly prepare your ribs before cooking them in your Instant Pot:
1. Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs.
2. Cut the rack of ribs into manageable portions.
3. Season the meat with either a dry rub or marinade and let it marinate for at least an hour in the fridge.
4. Optional: Add wood chips on top of the dry rub to add smoky flavor.
5. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to help them cook evenly.
By taking these preparation steps, you’ll be able to achieve fall-off-the-bone tenderness and flavor-packed ribs in your Instant Pot. Keep reading to learn about the Instant Pot cooking process.
Seasoning and Sauces
Once the Instant Pot has built up enough pressure to begin cooking the ribs, it will display the countdown timer, and you should simply leave it alone and let it do its work. Remember to let the pressure release naturally, as this will allow the meat to rest and absorb more flavor. You can check the ribs for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. You’re looking for a temperature of around 195°F for perfectly cooked ribs. Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the Instant Pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
For an elevated finishing touch to your ribs, you can transfer them to the grill or under the oven broiler to get that classic caramelized exterior. Brush on your favorite sauce or glaze during the last few minutes of cooking to really bring out the flavor. Whether you prefer a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce or a tangy Asian-inspired glaze, the right sauce can really take your ribs to the next level. Serve with your favorite sides, sit back, and enjoy the juiciest, most flavorful ribs you’ve ever made, all thanks to your trusty Instant Pot.
Conclusion
One common mistake people make when cooking ribs in the Instant Pot is not using enough liquid. Without enough liquid, the pot won’t be able to reach full pressure, and the meat won’t cook properly. We recommend using at least one cup of liquid, such as apple cider, beer, or broth, to help the pot come to pressure and infuse the meat with flavor. Another important consideration is the size of the ribs. If your ribs are too large to fit in the Instant Pot, try cutting them into halves or thirds so that they fit more easily. These simple adjustments can help you achieve perfect, tender ribs every time.
Another tip to keep in mind when cooking ribs in an Instant Pot is to allow the pressure to release naturally, rather than doing a quick release. The natural release will let the juices settle back into the meat, which will make it more tender, flavorful, and juicy. You can tell when the pressure has fully released by checking the pressure valve. Once the valve has dropped, you can go ahead and open the Instant Pot and check the meat for doneness. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to create fall-off-the-bone ribs that are packed with flavor, and all with minimal effort and time thanks to your Instant Pot!
Hello there! My name is Tristram Ortega and I am a professional chef with a passion for cooking. I work at a top-rated restaurant where I create delicious dishes every day, and I’m excited to share my tips and techniques with you. Through this blog, I share my favorite recipes, cooking hacks, and insights into the world of professional cooking. So let’s get cooking together!
