Air-Fried Ribs: A Tasty, Quick Treat?

Yes, you can cook ribs in an air fryer! They come out tender and juicy, with a great balance of crispy exterior and tender meat. The air fryer is fantastic for many different types of ribs, including pork ribs, spare ribs, country ribs, beef ribs, and lamb ribs. The key to getting that intense flavor is a dry rub, which seals in the juices and keeps the ribs from drying out. You can also add a BBQ sauce to give your ribs a nice char.

Choosing the right ribs

Type of Ribs

The most common types of ribs used in air fryers are pork ribs, including baby back ribs, St. Louis-style ribs, and country ribs. However, you can also use beef ribs or lamb ribs. If you opt for beef or lamb ribs, keep in mind that they may require a slightly longer cooking time than pork ribs.

Size and Fit

It's important to choose ribs that fit well in your air fryer. Some air fryers have limited space, so you might need to cut the ribs into smaller pieces or slices before cooking. Ensure that the ribs can fit comfortably in the air fryer basket or oven, allowing for proper air circulation during cooking.

Quality and Marbling

Look for meaty and well-marbled ribs, as these will yield the most flavourful and tender results. Marbling refers to the fat distributed within the meat, which adds flavour and juiciness. Choose ribs with a good amount of fat content, as this will help keep the meat moist and tender during the cooking process.

Freshness and Source

Whenever possible, opt for fresh ribs over frozen ones. Fresh ribs will generally yield better results in terms of texture and flavour. Consider purchasing ribs from a trusted butcher or a reputable grocery store. This ensures that you get high-quality ribs with minimal processing, enhancing the overall taste and tenderness.

Bone-in or Boneless

While you can use both bone-in and boneless ribs in an air fryer, bone-in ribs are generally preferred. The bone adds flavour to the meat and helps keep it moist during cooking. Bone-in ribs also tend to have a more authentic rib texture and taste, providing a more satisfying dining experience.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, the type of ribs you choose depends on your personal preference. Experiment with different types of ribs, seasonings, and sauces to find the combination that suits your taste. You can create delicious air fryer ribs by customising them to your liking and following the general cooking guidelines for air-fried ribs.

Marinating the ribs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

The first step is to prepare the marinade, which can be a dry rub or a wet marinade. For a dry rub, combine spices such as paprika, chilli powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also use a store-bought BBQ rub. If you prefer a wet marinade, mix ingredients like barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, and Chinese seasoning.

Step 2: Apply the Marinade to the Ribs

Once you have prepared the marinade, it's time to apply it to the ribs. Place the ribs on a clean surface and generously season both sides with the dry rub, ensuring an even coating. If using a wet marinade, brush or rub the marinade onto the ribs, making sure to cover all surfaces.

Step 3: Allow the Ribs to Marinate

After applying the marinade, let the ribs sit and absorb the flavours. You can cover them with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or even overnight. This step is crucial, as it allows the spices and flavours to penetrate the meat, resulting in more flavourful ribs.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

While the ribs are marinating, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, typically around 350°F to 380°F. This step is important, as it ensures the air fryer is hot enough to start cooking the ribs as soon as they are placed inside.

Step 5: Cook the Ribs

Once the air fryer is preheated, it's time to cook the ribs. Place the marinated ribs into the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they fit properly. You may need to cut the ribs into smaller portions or halves to fit, depending on the size of your air fryer. Set the timer and follow the cooking instructions provided in the recipe you are following.

Tips for Marinating Ribs:

• For a deeper flavour, marinate the ribs overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the spices and seasonings to penetrate the meat more effectively.
• If using a wet marinade, avoid adding too much liquid, as it can make the ribs watery. Aim for a sticky consistency.
• You can also use a combination of dry rub and wet marinade. Apply the dry rub first, let it sit for a while, and then brush on the wet marinade before placing the ribs in the air fryer.

Preparing the air fryer

Before you begin cooking your ribs in the air fryer, there are a few things you need to do to ensure the best results. Firstly, check that your ribs will fit in the air fryer by placing them inside. If they don't fit, you can try cutting them into smaller pieces. However, avoid cutting them too small, as this may cause them to become overly crispy.

Once you've ensured your ribs fit, it's time to season them. Remove any membrane or silver skin from the back of the ribs, as this can make them tough and less tender. You can do this by sliding a knife between the silver skin and the ribs to loosen it and then pulling it back, just like peeling off a piece of tape. After removing the membrane, generously season both sides of the ribs with your chosen spices or a dry rub. You can use a simple combination of salt and pepper or create your own dry rub with spices like paprika, chilli powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning, as this will add flavour and help create a crispy exterior.

Now it's time to preheat your air fryer. Set it to the desired temperature, usually between 350-400°F (180-200°C), and let it heat up for a few minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your ribs by cutting them into portions that will fit in the air fryer basket or tray.

Cooking the ribs

Air fryer ribs are easy to make and only take about 25-30 minutes to cook. You can use any type of ribs, such as spare ribs, country ribs, pork ribs, or baby back ribs. Just make sure they fit in your air fryer.

Start by removing the membrane (silver skin) from the back of the ribs. This is a thin, leathery layer that can make the ribs less tender. Then, season the ribs with a dry rub or your choice of spices. You can use a store-bought spice blend or make your own.

Preheat your air fryer to between 350-400°F. Place the ribs in the air fryer basket, meat-side down, and cook for 20 minutes, flipping them over halfway through.

After 20 minutes, take the ribs out and brush both sides with BBQ sauce. Put them back in the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes at a higher temperature of around 400°F to get a nice char on the ribs.

The ribs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 175-195°F. They should be tender but not dried out. If you want fall-off-the-bone ribs, try slow-cooking them in the oven instead.

Serving the ribs

When it comes to serving ribs, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure they taste delicious and are enjoyed by all. Here are some tips and suggestions for serving ribs:

• Resting the meat: Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes after removing them from the air fryer. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the meat is tender and juicy.
• Sauce on the side: While you can brush the ribs with BBQ sauce before serving, it's also a good idea to provide extra sauce on the side for dipping. This way, your guests can adjust the amount of sauce to their preference.
• Cut the ribs: Before serving, use a sharp knife to cut the ribs into individual portions. This makes it easier for your guests to eat and ensures everyone gets a good amount of meat on the bone.
• Sides and accompaniments: Ribs go well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, wedges, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also offer bread or rolls on the side for a more filling meal.
• Leftovers: If you have any leftover ribs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. You can also freeze leftover ribs for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat ribs, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then use an oven, air fryer, or grill to heat them through. Brush with additional BBQ sauce before serving to add moisture and flavour.

Frequently asked questions