If you’re craving tender, juicy ribs but don’t have hours to slow-cook them, a pressure cooker is your best friend. Cooking ribs in a pressure cooker is fast, easy, and yields fall-off-the-bone results every time. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to help you master pressure cooker ribs with minimal fuss.
Why Use a Pressure Cooker for Ribs?
Pressure cookers dramatically reduce cooking time by using steam pressure to cook food quickly and evenly. Ribs that usually take hours on a grill or in the oven can be ready in under an hour while staying moist and tender. Plus, the pressure cooker locks in flavors, making your ribs rich and delicious without drying out.
What You’ll Need
– Pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
– Your favorite dry rub or seasoning blend (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, etc.)
– Liquid for pressure cooking (water, broth, or a mix with apple cider vinegar)
– Barbecue sauce for finishing
– Optional: olive oil for browning
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ribs
Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs – this helps them become more tender and lets flavors penetrate better. Then, cut the ribs into manageable sections that will fit into your pressure cooker.
Pat the ribs dry and generously coat them with your chosen dry rub or seasoning mix. This adds flavor and a nice crust after cooking.
2. Brown the Ribs (Optional but Recommended)
If your pressure cooker has a sauté or brown function, heat a little oil and brown the ribs on all sides. This step adds depth and a beautiful color to your ribs but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
3. Add Liquid and Arrange Ribs
Pour about 1 to 1.5 cups of liquid (water, broth, or a mix with apple cider vinegar) into the pressure cooker. This liquid creates the steam needed for pressure cooking and infuses flavor.
Place a rack or steamer basket inside the cooker if you have one, then arrange the ribs standing upright or curled around the pot so they don’t overlap too much. This ensures even cooking.
4. Pressure Cook the Ribs
Seal the lid and set your pressure cooker to high pressure. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes for tender ribs, or up to 40 minutes if you want them falling-off-the-bone soft.
After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 to 15 minutes before performing a quick release. This helps keep the ribs moist and tender.
5. Finish Under the Broiler
For that signature sticky, caramelized BBQ finish, transfer the ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush generously with barbecue sauce and broil for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce bubbles and caramelizes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Tips for Perfect Pressure Cooker Ribs
– Don’t overcrowd the cooker: Arrange ribs so steam can circulate freely.
– Use a flavorful liquid: Broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar adds depth.
– Natural pressure release: Helps keep ribs juicy.
– Broil at the end: Adds texture and enhances flavor with a caramelized glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, baked potatoes, or cornbread. A fresh salad or grilled veggies also pair perfectly with the rich, smoky flavor of pressure-cooked ribs.
Cooking ribs in a pressure cooker is a game-changer for busy weeknights or last-minute BBQ cravings. With just a few simple steps, you get tender, flavorful ribs in a fraction of the time it usually takes.
Ready to give it a try? What’s your favorite rib seasoning or BBQ sauce? Let me know!