Air-Fried Pork Ribs: A Quick, Crispy Delight

Cooking pork ribs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get delicious, tender, and juicy results. The air fryer's small size and convection fans mean you can cook ribs in less than an hour without having to heat up the grill or oven.

While air fryer ribs might not be as fall off the bone as oven-baked or smoked ribs, they are still very tender and full of flavour. The key to getting tender ribs in the air fryer is to remove the membrane so that the seasonings can be absorbed better. You can also try cooking the ribs at a lower temperature for longer and then finishing them off with a higher heat blast to get that crispy exterior while keeping the insides tender and juicy.

Choosing the right ribs

Type of Ribs

The most common types of ribs used in air fryers are baby back ribs and St. Louis-style ribs. Baby back ribs, also known as pork loin back ribs, come from the upper rib cage of the pig and are generally more tender and lean. St. Louis-style ribs are larger and meatier, cut from the belly area of the pig. They may require cutting them into smaller pieces to fit into the air fryer. Spare ribs and country-style ribs are also options but will need longer cooking times.

Source of Ribs

When selecting ribs, consider the source. Some people prefer to buy ribs from a butcher, as they often have more intact bones, which can enhance the flavour. Mainstream grocery stores also offer convenient options, but the bones may be more processed.

Quality and Freshness

Look for ribs that are meaty and well-marbled, with a good amount of fat running through the meat. This marbling contributes to the juiciness and flavour of the ribs. Ensure the ribs are fresh, with a bright colour and no signs of drying or discolouration.

Size and Thickness

The size and thickness of the ribs are crucial, as they need to fit into your air fryer. If you have a smaller air fryer, consider choosing smaller racks of ribs or cutting them into portions that will fit comfortably in the basket. Thicker ribs may require a longer cooking time, while thinner ribs may cook faster.

Bone-In or Boneless

While bone-in ribs are traditional and add flavour, boneless ribs are also an option. Boneless ribs, or rib tips, are smaller and may require a shorter cooking time. If you opt for bone-in ribs, ensure the bones are intact and not broken or cracked.

Preparation and Seasoning

When choosing ribs, consider the level of preparation and seasoning you prefer. Some ribs come pre-seasoned or marinated, offering convenience and flavour. Others may be plain, allowing you to apply your own dry rub or spice blend. If you enjoy a particular type of barbecue sauce, you can also select ribs seasoned with your favourite sauce.

Remember to check the ingredients and nutritional information to ensure the ribs align with your taste preferences and dietary needs. With the right selection of ribs, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious air fryer pork ribs!

Removing the membrane

To remove the membrane, start by flipping the ribs so that they are curved toward you. You will see a thin, translucent layer of white tissue attached to the underside of the ribs. Using a blunt knife, slide the knife under the membrane at one edge of the slab of ribs to loosen it. You can also use your fingers to get under the membrane and lift it up. Once you have detached one corner, pull the membrane away from the ribs. You can use a paper towel to help you get a grip on the membrane, as it can be slippery. Continue pulling away from the slab until the entire membrane is removed.

Once the membrane is removed, discard it and continue with seasoning and prepping your ribs. This process will ensure that your ribs are flavorful and tender when cooked in the air fryer.

Seasoning and saucing

Choosing the Right Ribs:

Firstly, select the right type of ribs for your air fryer. Baby back ribs are the most commonly recommended for air fryers due to their size and meat composition. They fit well in standard-sized air fryers and have a higher proportion of loin meat, which cooks more quickly and stays juicy.

Seasoning:

The seasoning you choose will infuse your ribs with flavour. A simple seasoning blend can include salt and black pepper. For a more complex flavour profile, you can add garlic powder, mustard powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and other spices of your choice.

Some recipes also suggest applying a thin coating of yellow mustard to the ribs before adding the seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick to the ribs and doesn't affect the final taste.

Sauc(e)ing:

When it comes to sauce, BBQ sauce is the most popular choice for pork ribs. You can use a store-bought variety or make your own. Some recipes suggest a sauce with brown sugar to help the ribs caramelise. You can also experiment with alternatives like a honey garlic glaze or a spicy chipotle sauce.

Timing the Sauce:

The timing of when you add the sauce to your ribs is crucial. Most recipes suggest brushing the sauce on the ribs towards the end of the cooking process. This ensures the sauce doesn't burn due to the high heat of the air fryer.

Finishing Touches:

Finally, once your ribs are cooked and sauced, you can add some finishing touches. Some recipes suggest garnishing with more sauce, while others recommend serving the ribs with extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Experiment with different seasoning and saucing combinations to find your perfect match!

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for pork ribs in an air fryer will depend on the type of ribs you are using and the level of doneness you prefer.

For pork baby back ribs, preheat your air fryer to between 350°F and 380°F. Then, cook the ribs for around 30 minutes, turning them halfway through. After this, brush the ribs with barbecue sauce and cook for a further 5-10 minutes.

If you are cooking beef or lamb ribs, you will need to increase the cooking time by 5-6 minutes. For well-done ribs, the internal temperature should be 170°F.

For fall-off-the-bone ribs, you will need to cook the ribs low and slow. First, cook the ribs at 325°F for 35 minutes. Then, turn the ribs over and cook at 300°F for another 20 minutes. Finally, turn the heat up to 400°F and cook for a further 10 minutes.

Reheating and storing

Storing your leftover ribs properly is essential to maintaining their flavour and texture. To avoid your ribs drying out, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, or place them in an airtight container or a gallon zipper bag. You can also put them in a vacuum-sealed bag to prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate the ribs as soon as possible and consume them within four to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze the ribs for up to three months.

When reheating your ribs, preheat your air fryer to around 350°F to 400°F. If your ribs are large, cut them into smaller pieces to ensure proper air circulation inside the air fryer. Place the ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for about 5 to 10 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed. You can spritz them with apple juice, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, or water to add moisture and prevent drying.

Frequently asked questions