Pressure cooking is a convenient and efficient way to cook ribs, resulting in tender, juicy meat that falls right off the bone. Whether you are a seasoned home chef or a beginner in the kitchen, using an Instant Pot for your rib recipe can save you time and effort.

But how long should you pressure cook your ribs in an Instant Pot? The answer depends on the cut and thickness of your ribs, as well as your desired level of tenderness. In general, a good rule of thumb is to cook baby back ribs for about 20-25 minutes, and spare ribs for about 25-30 minutes. However, it’s important to note that these times may vary depending on individual recipes and preferences.

When pressure cooking ribs, it’s essential to factor in the time it takes for the Instant Pot to reach full pressure and release the pressure afterward. This can take an additional 10-20 minutes, so plan accordingly when estimating the total cooking time.

To achieve perfectly cooked ribs, it’s recommended to use the “meat” or “manual” setting on your Instant Pot. Additionally, adding a flavorful liquid, such as broth or barbecue sauce, can help infuse the ribs with flavor during cooking. After the pressure cooking is complete, you can finish off the ribs under the broiler or on the grill for a crispy, caramelized exterior.

Pro tip: To ensure the ribs are cooked to your preferred tenderness, you can use the “fork test”. Simply insert a fork into the meat, and if it easily slides in and out with little resistance, the ribs are ready!

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By following the recommended guidelines and experimenting with cook times and flavors, you can master the art of pressure cooking ribs in an Instant Pot to impress your family and friends with delicious, fall-off-the-bone goodness.

How to Cook Ribs in an Instant Pot

Using an Instant Pot to cook ribs is a quick and easy way to prepare delicious, tender meat. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Ingredients:
– 1 rack of ribs
– 1 cup of barbecue sauce
– 1 cup of water
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat better.
  2. Season the ribs with salt and pepper, ensuring that both sides are coated evenly.
  3. Place the trivet at the bottom of the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water.
  4. Cut the rack of ribs into sections if necessary, so that they fit inside the Instant Pot.
  5. Arrange the ribs on the trivet in a single layer. If you have multiple sections, you can stack them on top of each other.
  6. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
  7. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting, and set the timer to 25 minutes for baby back ribs or 35 minutes for spare ribs.
  8. Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for 10 minutes. Then, carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
  9. Remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and brush them with barbecue sauce on both sides.
  10. Preheat your grill or broiler to high heat.
  11. Grill or broil the ribs for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they develop a nice char and the sauce caramelizes.
  12. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving.
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That’s it! Now you know how to cook ribs in an Instant Pot. Enjoy your delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs!

Choosing the Right Ribs

When it comes to pressure cooking ribs in an Instant Pot, it’s important to choose the right type of ribs. There are a few different options to consider:

Rack of Ribs

A rack of ribs is made up of several ribs still connected to each other. This is a popular option because it is easy to cook and serve.

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St. Louis Style Ribs

St. Louis style ribs are made by cutting the rib tips off of a rack of spare ribs. They are known for their meatiness and rich flavor.

Spare Ribs

Spare ribs are cut from the lower portion of the pig’s belly, below the baby back ribs. They are larger and fattier than other types of ribs.

Baby Back Ribs

Baby back ribs are cut from the top of the rib cage, near the spine. They are smaller and leaner than spare ribs, with a slightly sweeter flavor.

When choosing the right ribs for pressure cooking, consider your personal preference for meatiness, tenderness, and flavor. Different types of ribs will require slightly different cooking times and techniques, so keep that in mind when following a recipe.

Preparing the Ribs

Before you begin cooking the ribs in your Instant Pot, it’s important to properly prepare them. Here is a step-by-step guide:

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Gather Your Ingredients

First, gather all the ingredients you’ll need to prepare the ribs. This includes the ribs themselves, seasoning of your choice, and any additional ingredients you’d like to use.

Trim the Ribs

Start by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the ribs. This will help the seasonings penetrate the meat more effectively, resulting in a more flavorful end result.

Apply Seasoning

Next, generously season the ribs with your chosen seasoning. Ensure that both sides of the ribs are evenly coated, rubbing the seasonings into the meat for better flavor absorption.

Let the Ribs Rest

After seasoning, let the ribs rest for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat before cooking.

Insert Trivet

Before placing the ribs in the Instant Pot, insert the trivet to elevate the ribs from the liquid and prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

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Add Liquid

Pour in your preferred cooking liquid. This could be water, broth, or a combination of both. The liquid will help create steam in the pot, allowing the ribs to cook under pressure.

Place Ribs in Instant Pot

Place the seasoned ribs on top of the trivet, arranging them in a single layer if possible. This will ensure even cooking throughout.

Cooking Time

Refer to your recipe or cooking guide to determine the appropriate cooking time for your ribs in the Instant Pot. Once you’ve set the cooking time, seal the Instant Pot and let it come to pressure before cooking begins.

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A properly prepared set of ribs will come out tender, flavorful, and ready to be enjoyed!

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Ribs Preparation Summary
Step Description
Gather Your Ingredients Collect all necessary ingredients.
Trim the Ribs Remove excess fat and silver skin from the ribs.
Apply Seasoning Generously apply seasoning to both sides of the ribs.
Let the Ribs Rest Allow the ribs to rest for 15-20 minutes after seasoning.
Insert Trivet Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
Add Liquid Pour in your preferred cooking liquid.
Place Ribs in Instant Pot Arrange the ribs on top of the trivet in a single layer.
Cooking Time Follow the recommended cooking time for your recipe.

Seasoning the Ribs

Before cooking your ribs in the Instant Pot, it’s important to season them well to enhance their flavor. Here’s how you can season your ribs:

1. Gather the Ingredients

Collect your preferred spices and seasonings to create a delicious rub for your ribs. Some popular options include:

  • Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are always a good choice.
  • Paprika: Adds a smoky flavor and a touch of sweetness.
  • Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These spices add depth of flavor.
  • Cayenne Pepper: If you like a bit of spice, add some cayenne pepper to your rub.
  • Brown Sugar: For a touch of sweetness and to help form a beautiful crust on the ribs.

2. Prepare the Rub

Mix the spices and seasonings together in a small bowl. Make sure to taste as you go to adjust the flavors according to your preference. You can also experiment with different spice combinations until you find the perfect blend that suits your taste.

3. Apply the Rub

Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel, then generously apply the rub to all sides of the ribs. Make sure to cover the meat thoroughly, pressing the rub into the surface to ensure it adheres well.

Note: Let the seasoned ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

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With your ribs expertly seasoned, you’re now ready to move on to the next step in cooking them to perfection in the Instant Pot.

Pressure Cooking the Ribs

Pressure cooking is a quick and efficient way to cook ribs, ensuring that the meat is tender and full of flavor. Here is a step-by-step guide to pressure cooking ribs in an Instant Pot.

1. Prepare the Ribs

Before pressure cooking the ribs, it is important to season them with your favorite dry rub or marinade. This will not only enhance the taste but also help tenderize the meat. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for a more tender result.

2. Add Liquid

It is essential to add liquid to the Instant Pot before pressure cooking the ribs. This will help create steam and pressure, allowing the ribs to cook evenly and quickly. You can use water, broth, or a combination of both. The liquid should cover the bottom of the pot, but not touch the ribs.

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3. Place the Ribs in the Instant Pot

Once the liquid is added, place the seasoned ribs on the included trivet or a rack inside the Instant Pot. This will prevent the ribs from sitting directly in the liquid and becoming soggy.

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4. Set the Cooking Time and Pressure

After placing the ribs in the Instant Pot, secure the lid and set the cooking time. For baby back ribs, the recommended cooking time is around 25-30 minutes at high pressure. For spare ribs, you may need to increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes. Adjust the cooking time according to the size and thickness of the ribs.

5. Natural Release or Quick Release

Once the cooking time is complete, you have the option to do a natural release or a quick release. A natural release allows the pressure to release gradually, which helps keep the meat tender and moist. A quick release, on the other hand, releases the pressure immediately. Choose the method that works best for you, but keep in mind that a natural release may result in more flavorful and tender ribs.

6. Finish the Ribs

After the pressure has been released, carefully remove the lid of the Instant Pot. You can choose to finish the ribs in the oven or on the grill for a crispy and flavorful exterior. Brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce and broil or grill for a few minutes until they are nicely caramelized.

Pressure cooking ribs in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy tender and flavorful meat in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to create your own perfect rib recipe.

Q&A

How long should I pressure cook ribs in an instant pot?

You should pressure cook ribs in an instant pot for about 25-30 minutes.

What is the recommended cooking time for ribs in an instant pot?

The recommended cooking time for ribs in an instant pot is 25-30 minutes.

Can I pressure cook ribs in an instant pot for less than 25 minutes?

Yes, you can cook ribs in an instant pot for less than 25 minutes, but they may not be as tender.

Is it possible to overcook ribs in an instant pot?

Yes, it is possible to overcook ribs in an instant pot, which can result in them becoming mushy.

What happens if I cook ribs in an instant pot for more than 30 minutes?

If you cook ribs in an instant pot for more than 30 minutes, they may become too tender and start falling apart.

How long should I pressure cook ribs in the instant pot?

For tender and juicy ribs, you should pressure cook them in an instant pot for about 25-30 minutes.

Is it possible to pressure cook ribs in an instant pot for too long?

Yes, if you pressure cook ribs in an instant pot for too long, they can become overcooked and dry. It’s important to follow the recommended cooking times for the best results.