If you’re a fan of tender, juicy spare ribs but don’t have hours to spend smoking them on your traditional grill, the instant pot is your new best friend. This magical countertop appliance can cook your favorite spare ribs in a fraction of the time, while still delivering mouthwatering results. But how long do you actually need to cook spare ribs in the instant pot to achieve that fall-off-the-bone perfection?
While the exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your spare ribs, a good rule of thumb is to cook them for around 25-30 minutes under high pressure. This allows the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful, ensuring that every bite is a delight. However, it’s important to note that this cooking time does not include the time it takes for the instant pot to come to pressure, which can take an additional 10-15 minutes.
Before cooking your spare ribs in the instant pot, it’s best to season them with your favorite dry rub or marinade to enhance their flavor. Once seasoned, you can place them in the instant pot along with a cup or two of your preferred cooking liquid, such as broth or apple juice. Lock the lid in place, set the instant pot to high pressure, and let it work its magic.
After the cooking time is up, it’s essential to let the instant pot naturally release its pressure for at least 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. This helps to ensure that the spare ribs retain their moisture and tenderness. Once the pressure has been released, carefully remove the lid and marvel at your perfectly cooked spare ribs. For an extra touch of deliciousness, you can brush on your favorite BBQ sauce and broil the spare ribs in the oven for a few minutes to achieve a beautiful glaze.
How Long to Cook Spare Ribs in Instant Pot
Spare ribs are a delicious and tender cut of meat that can be cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot. The pressure cooking function of the Instant Pot helps to lock in moisture, resulting in juicy and flavorful spare ribs.
When it comes to cooking spare ribs in an Instant Pot, there are a few factors to consider. The size of the spare ribs and the desired level of tenderness will affect the cooking time.
Generally, it is recommended to cook spare ribs in an Instant Pot for 25-30 minutes on high pressure. This cooking time is suitable for spare ribs that are about 1-2 inches thick. For thicker spare ribs, you may need to increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.
Before cooking the spare ribs in the Instant Pot, it is important to prepare them properly. Make sure to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs, as this can prevent the flavors from penetrating the meat. You can also marinate the spare ribs in your favorite sauce or rub for added flavor.
After the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for about 10 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure. This will help to ensure that the spare ribs are tender and easy to eat.
Once the spare ribs are cooked, you can brush them with barbecue sauce and finish them off under a broiler or on a hot grill to add a caramelized glaze. This step is optional, but it can enhance the flavor and appearance of the spare ribs.
Overall, cooking spare ribs in an Instant Pot is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this tasty cut of meat. With the right cooking time and proper preparation, you can expect tender and flavorful spare ribs every time.
Preparation for Cooking Spare Ribs
Before cooking spare ribs in an Instant Pot, it is important to properly prepare the meat to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Cleaning the Ribs
Start by cleaning the spare ribs to remove any excess fat, bone fragments, or debris. Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Removing the Membrane
The membrane on the back of the ribs can make them tough and less enjoyable to eat. To remove it, gently slide a knife under the membrane at one end and lift it away from the meat. Use a paper towel for better grip if needed.
3. Applying Dry Rub
To enhance the flavor of the spare ribs, apply a dry rub mixture generously on all sides of the meat. The dry rub can consist of a combination of spices such as paprika, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar.
4. Marinating (Optional)
If you have time, marinating the spare ribs can further enhance their taste and tenderness. Place the seasoned ribs in a resealable plastic bag or a covered container, and allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Preparing the Instant Pot
Before cooking the spare ribs, ensure that the Instant Pot is cleaned and in good working condition. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting up the pot and ensure that the sealing ring is properly in place.
6. Adding Liquid to the Instant Pot
For cooking spare ribs, it is essential to add a liquid to the Instant Pot to create steam and prevent the meat from drying out. Common options for liquid include water, broth, juice, or a mixture of these. Add enough liquid to cover the bottom of the pot, typically around 1 cup.
By following these preparation steps, you are ready to cook spare ribs in an Instant Pot and enjoy tender, flavorful results.
Cooking Spare Ribs in Instant Pot
Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can make cooking spare ribs quick and easy. With its pressure cooking feature, you can achieve tender and juicy spare ribs in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of spare ribs
- 1 cup of beef or pork broth
- 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Remove the membrane from the back of the spare ribs if desired. This will help the seasoning and sauce penetrate the meat better.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the spare ribs.
- Pour the beef or pork broth into the Instant Pot. Place the spare ribs on the trivet inside the pot, making sure they are not submerged in the liquid.
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 25-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the ribs.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to release the pressure naturally for 10-15 minutes. Carefully release any remaining pressure by switching the valve to the venting position.
- Remove the spare ribs from the Instant Pot and place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Brush the barbecue sauce over the ribs.
- Preheat the oven broiler and place the baking sheet with the sauced ribs under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce begins to caramelize.
- Remove from the oven and let the spare ribs rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with additional barbecue sauce if desired.
With the help of an Instant Pot, you can enjoy delicious spare ribs that are tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!
Recommended Cooking Time for Spare Ribs
When using an Instant Pot to cook spare ribs, it is important to ensure that they are cooked to perfection, with the meat falling off the bone and packed with flavor. The cooking time can vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs, as well as personal preference for doneness.
Fall-off-the-bone Tender:
For fall-off-the-bone tender spare ribs, it is recommended to cook them in the Instant Pot for about 25-30 minutes under high pressure. This will result in tender meat that easily pulls away from the bone.
Sticky and Caramelized:
If you prefer your spare ribs to have a sticky and caramelized glaze, you can use the Instant Pot to cook them for 20-25 minutes under high pressure. Afterward, you can finish them off under the broiler or on the grill for a few minutes to achieve the desired caramelization.
Regardless of the cooking time, it is important to factor in the additional time required for the Instant Pot to come to pressure and naturally release the pressure. On average, this can take an additional 15-20 minutes.
Remember to always check the internal temperature of the meat with a meat thermometer to ensure that it reaches a safe temperature of 145°F (63°C) for pork ribs.
Conclusion:
By following these recommended cooking times, you can enjoy delicious spare ribs cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. Experiment with different cooking times and seasoning combinations to find your favorite way to cook spare ribs.
Checking Spare Ribs for Doneness
Once the cooking time is complete, it’s important to check if the spare ribs are cooked to perfection. Here are a few ways to determine doneness:
- Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the spare ribs to ensure they are nicely browned and caramelized. The meat should pull away from the bone slightly.
- Texture: Gently poke or press a rib to check for tenderness. The meat should be fork-tender, meaning it easily separates from the bone.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs. It should read at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium. The temperature should be taken at the thickest part of the meat, away from the bone.
Remember, cooking times can vary depending on the size of the ribs and the desired level of doneness. If the ribs are not fully cooked, you can return them to the Instant Pot for an additional 5-10 minutes of pressure cooking. Once the spare ribs are done, allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Q&A
What are spare ribs?
Spare ribs are a type of meat cut from the lower part of a pig’s rib cage. They are known for their rich flavor and tender meat.
Can spare ribs be cooked in an instant pot?
Yes, spare ribs can be cooked in an instant pot. In fact, using an instant pot is a great way to cook spare ribs quickly and easily.
How long does it take to cook spare ribs in an instant pot?
It typically takes about 25-30 minutes to cook spare ribs in an instant pot. This cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs.
What is the best cooking method for spare ribs?
The best cooking method for spare ribs is subjective, but many people find that using an instant pot produces tender and flavorful ribs. Other popular cooking methods include grilling, smoking, and baking in the oven.
What is the recommended temperature to cook spare ribs in an instant pot?
The recommended cooking temperature for spare ribs in an instant pot is high pressure. This setting is usually around 10-15 psi (pounds per square inch) and helps to break down the meat fibers, resulting in tender ribs.
How long should I cook spare ribs in an instant pot?
You should cook spare ribs in an instant pot for about 25 minutes.