From Bland To Flavorful: How To Cook Pork Ribs In The Instant Pot!

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more? Join us as we delve into the art of cooking mouthwatering pork ribs in the convenience of your Instant Pot.

Ingredients for Succulent Pork Ribs

To create this delectable dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Guide to Instant Pot Pork Ribs

1. Prepare Your Ribs: Remove the ribs from the packaging and trim off any excess fat. Season generously with salt and pepper.

2. Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Coat the Ribs: Brush the ribs with the prepared sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.

4. Add Liquid to the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of water or chicken broth into the Instant Pot.

5. Place Ribs in the Instant Pot: Use a trivet or steamer basket to elevate the ribs above the liquid. This will prevent them from burning.

6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting. Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the ribs:

• Baby back ribs: 20-25 minutes
• Spare ribs: 30-35 minutes

7. Natural Release: After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes.

8. Broil (Optional): For a crispy finish, remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and broil them in the oven for 5-7 minutes.

9. Serve and Enjoy: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Pork Ribs

• Use a Good Quality Barbecue Sauce: The sauce is a crucial component of this dish, so choose one that you enjoy.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked ribs will become dry and tough. Follow the recommended cooking times closely.
• Let the Ribs Rest: This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful ribs.
• Experiment with Different Rubs: If you prefer a different flavor profile, try experimenting with your own dry rub before cooking.

Variations on Instant Pot Pork Ribs

• Honey Garlic Ribs: Add 1/4 cup of honey to the sauce for a sweet and savory flavor.
• Spicy Ribs: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the sauce for a kick.
• Asian-Inspired Ribs: Add 1/4 cup of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to the sauce for an Asian twist.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use frozen pork ribs?

Yes, but thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. What is the best way to remove the ribs from the Instant Pot?

Use tongs or a meat fork to carefully lift the ribs out of the Instant Pot.

3. How long can I keep leftover pork ribs?

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

5. What are some good side dishes for pork ribs?

Consider serving your ribs with coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad, or corn on the cob.