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October 27, 2024
If you’re looking for a delicious and tender way to cook ribs, using an Instant Pot is a game-changer. This popular kitchen appliance allows you to achieve mouth-watering results in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function helps to lock in flavor and moisture, resulting in ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender.
But how long should you cook ribs in the Instant Pot? The cooking time will depend on several factors, including the size and thickness of the ribs, as well as your personal preference for doneness. Generally, cooking ribs in the Instant Pot will take around 25 to 30 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release to allow the meat to rest.
It’s important to note that the cooking time mentioned is just a guideline, and you may need to adjust it based on your specific recipe and desired level of tenderness. Additionally, thicker ribs may require slightly longer cooking times, while thinner ribs may cook more quickly. To ensure the best results, always refer to your Instant Pot’s instruction manual and follow any specific cooking recommendations provided by the manufacturer.
Preparing Ribs for Slow Cooking
Step 1: Start by choosing the type of ribs you want to cook. St. Louis style ribs or baby back ribs are good options for slow cooking in an Instant Pot.
Step 2: Prior to cooking, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Step 3: Season the ribs with your choice of dry rub or marinade. Be generous with the seasoning to ensure a flavorful result.
Step 4: If desired, let the ribs marinate in the seasoning for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat.
Step 5: When you are ready to cook, place the seasoned ribs in the Instant Pot. You may need to cut the ribs into smaller pieces to fit them properly.
Step 6: Add a cup of liquid to the Instant Pot, such as broth, barbecue sauce, or a mixture of your choice. This will help create steam and keep the meat moist during cooking.
Step 7: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the cooking time according to your recipe or preference. Slow cooking ribs in an Instant Pot typically takes between 25 to 35 minutes.
Step 8: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully open the lid.
Step 9: Remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat more tender.
Follow these steps to ensure your ribs are perfectly prepared for slow cooking in an Instant Pot. Enjoy the tender and flavorful results!
Choosing the Right Ribs
When it comes to slow cooking ribs in an Instant Pot, choosing the right type of ribs is essential for achieving the most flavorful and tender results. Here are some popular options to consider:
- Pork Baby Back Ribs: Known for their tenderness and lean meat, pork baby back ribs are a popular choice for cooking in an Instant Pot. They are cut from the top of the rib cage and are usually smaller and more curved in shape.
- Pork Spare Ribs: Pork spare ribs are larger and meatier compared to baby back ribs. They are cut from the bottom of the rib cage and contain a higher fat content, which adds depth of flavor and moisture to the meat.
- Beef Short Ribs: Beef short ribs are larger and more substantial than pork ribs. They have a good amount of marbling and connective tissue, which makes them incredibly tender and flavorful when slow cooked.
- Beef Back Ribs: Beef back ribs are cut from the prime rib area and have more meat compared to beef short ribs. They are slightly more challenging to find and might require special ordering, but they are worth the effort for their rich beefy flavor.
Ultimately, the choice of ribs depends on personal preference and availability. Whichever type you choose, make sure the ribs are of high quality and properly trimmed before adding them to your Instant Pot for the perfect slow-cooked ribs.
Preparing the Ribs
Before cooking the ribs in an instant pot, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure they are ready to be slow cooked to perfection.
1. Remove the Membrane:
Using a small knife, gently lift and loosen the membrane covering the bone side of the ribs. Once you have loosened the membrane, grab it with a paper towel and pull it off completely. This step is important as the membrane can become tough and chewy when cooked.
2. Season the Ribs:
Generously season both sides of the ribs with your preferred dry rub or seasoning mixture. Depending on your taste preferences, you can use a store-bought rub or make your own using a combination of spices such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and brown sugar.
3. Let the Ribs Rest:
After seasoning the ribs, cover them with plastic wrap and let them rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhances the overall taste of the ribs.
4. Sear the Ribs (Optional):
If you prefer a caramelized and crispy exterior on your ribs, you can choose to sear them before slow cooking. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the ribs for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
5. Set Up the Instant Pot:
Place the trivet or a steamer basket in the bottom of the instant pot and pour in the required amount of liquid, such as water, broth, or apple juice. This liquid will create steam and help cook the ribs.
6. Arrange the Ribs:
After searing (if desired), place the ribs in the instant pot, meaty side facing the walls of the pot. You can stand the ribs up against the walls of the pot or coil them to fit, depending on the size of your instant pot.
7. Cook the Ribs:
Secure the lid on the instant pot and set the vent to the sealing position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time for approximately 25-30 minutes per pound of ribs. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs.
Once the cooking time is up, allow the instant pot to naturally release pressure for at least 10 minutes. After that, you can manually release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the ribs from the instant pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Now that you have prepared the ribs, they are ready to be slow cooked in the instant pot, resulting in tender, flavorful, and fall-off-the-bone ribs that are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Cooking Ribs in Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to make a wide variety of dishes, including ribs. Using the Instant Pot to cook ribs is a convenient and time-saving method that results in tender and flavorful meat.
Ingredients:
- 1 rack of ribs
- 1 cup of barbecue sauce
- 1 cup of water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the ribs with salt and pepper. Rub the seasonings all over the meat to ensure it is evenly coated.
- Put the Instant Pot in sauté mode and add a splash of oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the ribs on both sides until they are browned. This step helps to lock in the flavors.
- Add the barbecue sauce and water to the Instant Pot, making sure to cover the ribs completely. Secure the lid and set the pressure release valve to “sealing”.
- Select the “meat/stew” setting on the Instant Pot and set the timer for 25-30 minutes. If you prefer your ribs to be fall-off-the-bone tender, you can increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully switch the pressure release valve to “venting” to release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, you can brush them with more barbecue sauce and broil them in the oven for a few minutes to achieve a caramelized and sticky glaze.
- Serve the ribs warm with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Tips:
If you prefer your ribs to have a smoky flavor, you can add a tablespoon of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce and water mixture before cooking.
| Rib Type | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| Pork baby back ribs | 25-30 minutes |
| Beef short ribs | 35-40 minutes |
| Lamb ribs | 20-25 minutes |
With the Instant Pot, you can enjoy delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs in a fraction of the time it would take to cook them in the oven or on the grill. Experiment with different sauces and seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking. Happy cooking!
Seasoning the Ribs
Before slow cooking your ribs in the Instant Pot, it’s important to season them properly. This step will help enhance the flavor of the meat and make it even more delicious. Here are the steps to season your ribs:
- Start by patting the ribs dry with a paper towel. This will ensure that the seasoning sticks to the meat.
- Prepare a dry rub mixture by combining your choice of spices. A classic dry rub usually includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and brown sugar.
- Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the dry rub mixture. Make sure to rub it into the meat to fully incorporate the flavors.
- Let the seasoned ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
After seasoning the ribs, you are ready to place them in the Instant Pot and start the slow cooking process. Remember to follow the specific cooking instructions for your model of Instant Pot, as cooking times may vary.
Q&A
How long does it take to slow cook ribs in an Instant Pot?
It takes about 25 minutes to slow cook ribs in an Instant Pot.
What temperature should I set my Instant Pot to when cooking ribs?
You should set your Instant Pot to the “Meat/Stew” mode, which typically cooks at high pressure and high heat.
Can I slow cook frozen ribs in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can slow cook frozen ribs in an Instant Pot. However, you will need to add some extra cooking time to ensure they cook through completely.
Should I add liquid to the Instant Pot when cooking ribs?
Yes, it is recommended to add some liquid, such as broth or barbecue sauce, to the Instant Pot when cooking ribs. This helps to infuse flavor and keep the ribs moist during the cooking process.
What is the difference between slow cooking and pressure cooking ribs in an Instant Pot?
The main difference is the cooking time. Slow cooking ribs in an Instant Pot takes longer, usually around 25 minutes, whereas pressure cooking ribs can be done in as little as 15 minutes. Slow cooking allows for a more tender and flavorful result, while pressure cooking is quicker but may not yield the same level of tenderness.