Air-Fried Baby Back Ribs: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

You can definitely cook baby back ribs in an air fryer! This method is faster than cooking baby back ribs in the oven, on the grill, or even in a smoker. The air fryer gives the ribs a beautiful crust on the outside while the inside cooks to tender perfection. The ribs are ready in under an hour, making them a great option for a weeknight dinner. You can season them however you like, but a dry rub with spices like brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper is a popular choice. After rubbing the ribs with the spice mixture, they are cooked in the air fryer for about 30 minutes, then brushed with barbecue sauce and cooked for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Removing the membrane

• Flip the ribs over and locate the silvery membrane on the bone side.
• Using a kitchen knife or a butter knife, carefully slice off a small corner of the membrane.
• Grip the sliced corner with a paper towel and pull it off. You may need to use a bit of force to get it started, but it should come off in one piece.
• Rinse the ribs under cold water to remove any remaining membrane fragments.
• Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. This step is important to remove any excess moisture, which will help achieve a better crust during cooking.

After removing the membrane, you can proceed with seasoning and cooking the ribs according to your preferred recipe.

Choosing the right ribs

Type of Ribs:

Select pork baby back ribs, which are tender and lean cuts from the upper ribcage of the pig. These ribs include riblets, loin ribs, and back ribs. They are smaller and leaner than spare ribs, with meatier bones and a shorter cooking time.

Source of Ribs:

Consider purchasing your ribs from a butcher instead of a mainstream grocery store. This way, you can ensure that most of the bone is still intact, which is crucial for optimal flavour.

Rib Size and Quantity:

A typical slab of baby back ribs contains 7 to 13 ribs, while a rack usually has 7 to 8 ribs. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cut the rack in half or even into smaller portions to ensure they fit properly in the basket.

Membrane Removal:

Before cooking, it is essential to remove the tough membrane from the back of the ribs. This can be done by hand while wearing rubber gloves or using a paper towel. Removing the membrane allows the seasonings and marinade to penetrate the meat better.

Meat Quality:

Look for meaty and well-marbled ribs, as these will be the most flavourful and tender. Marbling refers to the thin fat streaks running through the meat, enhancing the flavour and juiciness of the ribs.

Cooking Time and Temperature:

The cooking time and temperature will depend on your desired doneness and the specific model of your air fryer. However, as a general guideline, preheat your air fryer to around 350-380 degrees Fahrenheit (about 175-190 degrees Celsius). For a full rack of ribs, cooking times can range from 24 to 32 minutes, flipping them halfway through. For smaller portions, adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Remember, the key to choosing the right ribs is understanding the type, size, and quality of the meat, as well as selecting a reputable source. By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to creating mouthwatering air-fried baby back ribs.

Preparing the rub

Firstly, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This membrane is also known as silverskin and can be peeled or sliced off. Removing it ensures that the ribs cook evenly and allows the rub to penetrate the meat.

Next, cut the rack of ribs into sections that will fit into your air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cut the rack into 2-4 pieces.

Now it's time to make the rub. In a small bowl, combine your chosen spices and herbs. A classic spice rub for baby back ribs might include brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chilli powder, paprika, cumin, and mustard powder. You can also add some liquid smoke to the mix for an extra smoky flavour. Play around with the spices and find a combination that suits your taste. Don't be afraid to experiment!

Once you have your spice mix ready, rub it generously all over the ribs, making sure to cover both sides well. You can use your hands or a brush to apply the rub. After applying the rub, let the ribs sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to penetrate the meat. You can also prepare the ribs ahead of time and let them sit in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours. This will only enhance the flavour!

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for baby back ribs in an air fryer depend on the type of ribs and the size of your air fryer. It is recommended to cook the ribs for long enough to reach an internal temperature of between 190 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This should make the meat tender enough to pull apart.

One source recommends preheating a 7-quart basket air fryer to 350°F for 5 minutes. Then, cook the ribs for 15 minutes meat-side down, 10 minutes meat-side up, and a final 5 minutes after brushing with barbecue sauce. This source also recommends investing in an instant-read thermometer to ensure the ribs are cooked to perfection.

Another source recommends preheating the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and cooking the ribs for 25 minutes. Then, brush the ribs with barbecue sauce and cook for another 10 minutes.

If you are using an oven-style air fryer, the cooking time may be faster. If you have a smaller air fryer, it may take longer to cook the ribs. It is important to cook the ribs in batches and in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

One source recommends cooking the ribs for 12 minutes on each side (a total of 24 minutes), flipping them halfway through. This source suggests that the safe internal temperature for perfectly cooked ribs is 145°F.

It is worth noting that the cooking time may vary depending on your specific air fryer and the type of ribs you are using. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your air fryer and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Reheating and storing

Reheating ribs in the air fryer is one of the best methods for making tender ribs. It's a great option when you're looking for something fast and easy with only a few simple steps.

Storing

Leftover ribs can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to two to three months.

Reheating

Reheating ribs in an air fryer typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes at a temperature of around 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C). Thicker cuts of ribs may require a longer reheating time, while thinner cuts may heat up more quickly. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Set the timer for 8 minutes. This is the recommended time for baby back ribs. Place them in a single layer on the air fryer tray or basket, leaving some space between them so they can get hot on all sides. The ribs will be done when an internal thermometer reads 165°F. You want to check the meat close to the bone, not the bone itself.

You can also spritz them with a bit of water or apple juice from a spray bottle. This will help add a bit of moisture and create a bit of steam in the air fryer once they begin to reheat. You can also add a bit of moisture or sauce to keep them from drying out.

Frequently asked questions