Hey guys! Craving some tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs but don't want to spend hours tending to a smoker or oven? Well, you're in luck! This guide will walk you through how to cook pressure cooker ribs that are unbelievably delicious and ready in a fraction of the time. We're talking about ribs so tender, they practically melt in your mouth. Forget those tough, chewy ribs you might have had in the past. With the magic of the pressure cooker, you can achieve barbecue-level perfection right in your kitchen. I know what you're thinking – can pressure cooker ribs really be that good? Trust me, they can, and they will! This method is a game-changer for busy weeknights or anytime you need a quick and satisfying meal. Plus, it's super easy, even for beginner cooks. So, grab your Instant Pot (or any pressure cooker), your favorite rack of ribs, and let's get cooking! This guide is packed with tips and tricks to ensure your ribs are a smashing success. From the perfect rub to the ideal cooking time, we've got you covered. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound rib-cooking prowess! Seriously, these ribs are so good, they'll think you spent all day slaving over a hot grill. But shhh, our little secret. Let's dive in and discover the wonderful world of pressure cooker ribs! Believe me; once you try this method, you'll never go back to the old way. You're about to become a rib-cooking rockstar!

What You'll Need

Before we get started, let's gather our ingredients and equipment. Having everything prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. After all, nobody wants to be scrambling for spices when the ribs are already in the pressure cooker! This section will cover everything you need, from the ribs themselves to the all-important barbecue sauce. Don't worry; most of these items are pantry staples, so you probably already have them on hand. And if you don't, a quick trip to the grocery store will have you all set. We'll also discuss some optional ingredients that can take your ribs to the next level. Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking – that's the beauty of cooking! The goal is to create ribs that you and your family will love. So, let's take a look at what you'll need to create these mouthwatering pressure cooker ribs.

• Ribs: The star of the show! You can use spare ribs or baby back ribs, depending on your preference. Spare ribs are meatier and have more connective tissue, which makes them incredibly tender when pressure cooked. Baby back ribs are leaner and cook a bit faster. I personally like spare ribs, but both work great.
• Dry Rub: This is where you can get creative! A good dry rub adds tons of flavor to the ribs. A basic rub typically includes paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add other spices like chili powder, cumin, or cayenne pepper for a little kick. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect blend!
• Liquid: You'll need some liquid in the pressure cooker to create steam and cook the ribs properly. Water, chicken broth, apple juice, or even beer work well. The liquid also adds flavor to the ribs, so choose wisely!
• Barbecue Sauce: This is the finishing touch! Use your favorite store-bought or homemade barbecue sauce. Sweet, tangy, spicy – the choice is yours. I recommend having a few different sauces on hand so everyone can customize their ribs.
• Equipment: You'll need a pressure cooker (Instant Pot), a knife, cutting board, measuring spoons, and a brush for applying the barbecue sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, now for the fun part – the cooking! This section will guide you through each step of the process, from prepping the ribs to applying the final coat of barbecue sauce. Don't worry; it's easier than you think. Just follow these simple instructions, and you'll be enjoying fall-off-the-bone ribs in no time. I'll also share some helpful tips and tricks along the way to ensure your ribs turn out perfectly every time. Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, so relax and have fun with it! And if you make a mistake, don't sweat it – even experienced cooks have their off days. The most important thing is to learn and keep experimenting until you find what works best for you. So, let's get started and create some amazing pressure cooker ribs!

1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This membrane can be tough and chewy, so it's best to remove it. To do this, slide a knife under the membrane and lift it up. Then, grab the membrane with a paper towel and pull it off. It might take a little effort, but it's worth it. Next, cut the ribs into smaller sections that will fit in your pressure cooker. I usually cut them into sections of 3-4 ribs each.
2. Apply the Dry Rub: Generously coat the ribs with your dry rub. Make sure to cover all sides of the ribs. Massage the rub into the meat for a few minutes to help it adhere. You can do this a few hours in advance or even overnight for more flavor.
3. Sear the Ribs (Optional): This step is optional, but it adds a nice depth of flavor to the ribs. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on all sides until they are browned. This will help to lock in the flavors and create a beautiful crust.
4. Pressure Cook the Ribs: Place the ribs in the pressure cooker. Pour in the liquid (water, broth, apple juice, or beer). Make sure the liquid doesn't cover the ribs completely; you want them to steam, not boil. Close the lid of the pressure cooker and set it to high pressure. Cook for 22-25 minutes for spare ribs or 18-20 minutes for baby back ribs. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the ribs.
5. Release the Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes. Then, quick release any remaining pressure. Be careful when releasing the pressure, as the steam is very hot.
6. Apply Barbecue Sauce: Remove the ribs from the pressure cooker and place them on a baking sheet. Brush them generously with your favorite barbecue sauce. You can also grill them for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce.
7. Broil (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, broil the ribs for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning. This will caramelize the sauce and give the ribs a sticky, delicious finish.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pressure Cooker Ribs

Want to take your pressure cooker ribs to the next level? Here are some expert tips and tricks that will guarantee fall-off-the-bone perfection every time. These tips are based on years of experience and countless experiments in the kitchen. I've learned what works and what doesn't, and I'm happy to share my secrets with you. From choosing the right ribs to mastering the art of the dry rub, these tips will help you create ribs that are worthy of a barbecue champion. So, read on and discover the secrets to perfect pressure cooker ribs! Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. The more you cook, the better you'll become. And with these tips in hand, you'll be well on your way to becoming a rib-cooking master.

• Choose the Right Ribs: The quality of your ribs will greatly affect the final result. Look for ribs that are pink in color and have good marbling (flecks of fat). Avoid ribs that are pale or have a lot of bone showing.
• Don't Overcook the Ribs: Overcooked ribs will be dry and mushy. The goal is to cook them until they are tender but still have some texture. Start with the recommended cooking time and adjust as needed. You can always cook them longer, but you can't uncook them.
• Use a Trivet: A trivet is a small rack that sits inside the pressure cooker. It helps to keep the ribs out of the liquid and prevents them from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you don't have a trivet, you can use balled-up aluminum foil.
• Let the Pressure Release Naturally: Natural pressure release allows the ribs to continue cooking gently, resulting in more tender meat. Quick release can cause the ribs to become tough.
• Customize Your Rub and Sauce: Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Try adding different spices to your dry rub or using a variety of barbecue sauces. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your ribs are cooked to perfection, it's time to serve them up! But what goes well with fall-off-the-bone pressure cooker ribs? Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will complete your meal. These side dishes are classic barbecue staples that pair perfectly with the smoky, tender ribs. From creamy coleslaw to hearty potato salad, these sides will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. I'll also share some creative ideas for using leftover ribs. Believe it or not, there are many ways to enjoy ribs beyond just eating them off the bone. So, whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, these serving suggestions will help you create a memorable meal. Get ready to dig in and enjoy the ultimate rib experience!

• Coleslaw: A classic barbecue side dish. The creamy, tangy flavor of coleslaw complements the richness of the ribs.
• Potato Salad: Another barbecue staple. Choose your favorite recipe, whether it's classic, German, or loaded with bacon and cheese.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, corn on the cob is a sweet and simple side dish that everyone loves.
• Baked Beans: A hearty and flavorful side dish that's perfect for a barbecue.
• Mac and Cheese: A creamy and comforting side dish that's always a hit.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! A complete guide on how to cook pressure cooker ribs that are guaranteed to be fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with flavor. I hope you enjoyed this culinary journey and learned some valuable tips and tricks along the way. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don't be afraid to try new things and put your own spin on this recipe. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this method is sure to impress your family and friends. And the best part? It's incredibly easy and saves you a ton of time compared to traditional methods. So, ditch the smoker and fire up your pressure cooker – you're about to create some seriously delicious ribs! I encourage you to share your creations with me on social media. I love seeing your culinary masterpieces and hearing your feedback. Happy cooking, and enjoy your mouthwatering pressure cooker ribs!