Baby back ribs cooked in the Instant Pot are the ultimate comfort food. They are tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. With the right blend of spices and a smoky finish, you can achieve restaurant-quality ribs at home in under an hour.
Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs:
The Instant Pot locks in moisture, making ribs juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender. Traditional methods take hours, but this pressure cooker cuts cooking time drastically. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
History of Baby Back Ribs:
Baby back ribs have long been a staple of American barbecue culture. Originating from Southern-style cooking, ribs became a highlight of backyard gatherings and smoky cookouts. Traditionally, they were slow-smoked for hours, creating tender and flavorful meat. With the invention of the Instant Pot, making ribs at home became quicker and more convenient without losing the authentic taste.
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Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 cup water or broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs.
- Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to make a dry rub.
- Coat ribs evenly with the dry rub.
- Pour water and apple cider vinegar into the Instant Pot.
- Place ribs on a trivet inside the pot, standing them upright.
- Seal lid and cook on high pressure for 25–30 minutes.
- Allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
- Brush ribs generously with barbecue sauce.
- Broil or grill for 5 minutes to caramelize.
Notes
- Always remove the membrane for maximum tenderness.
- Adjust cooking time for thicker ribs.
- Use apple juice instead of water for extra sweetness.
- Homemade barbecue sauce enhances the flavour.
- Rest ribs before serving to keep them juicy.
Tips For Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs:
- Add liquid smoke to the cooking liquid for authentic smoky flavor.
- Double the recipe for parties by using rib racks.
- Use honey or maple syrup in the glaze for sticky sweetness.
- Grill briefly after broiling for charred edges.
- Store leftovers in foil and reheat in the oven for best texture.
FAQ’s For Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs:
Q: Can I use frozen ribs?
Yes, increase cook time by 10 minutes.
Q: Do I need to marinate overnight?
No, but it enhances the flavour if you do.
Q: What type of ribs are best for this recipe?
Baby back ribs are ideal for tenderness.
Q: Can I prepare ribs ahead of time?
Yes, cook, refrigerate, then broil before serving.
Q: What sides go best with Instant Pot ribs?
Coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.
Conclusion:
Instant Pot baby back ribs are a quick and delicious way to enjoy classic barbecue at home. They save hours of cooking while delivering fall-off-the-bone tenderness and irresistible flavor. Whether for family dinners or weekend cookouts, this recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing meal every time.