Air-Fried Ribs: Country-Style Pork Perfection

Country-style ribs are a delicious, juicy, and tender cut of pork that can be easily cooked in an air fryer. This cooking method is perfect for when you want to enjoy tender ribs without the hassle of slow cooking them for hours. The air fryer's quick cooking time and ability to crisp up the meat make it a convenient and tasty option for preparing country-style ribs. With minimal prep work and easy cleanup, you can have a finger-licking good meal ready in under 30 minutes. The key to achieving fall-off-the-bone tender meat is cooking the ribs to a higher internal temperature and using a meat thermometer to monitor their progress. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps to make perfect country-style ribs in your air fryer, along with suggestions for mouth-watering sauces and seasonings.

Choosing the right cut of pork

When selecting country-style ribs, it is advisable to opt for boneless ribs, as they are more convenient to eat and require less effort to cook compared to traditional ribs. The quality of the pork is also a crucial factor to consider. Look for dark reddish-pink to purplish-red meat with a good amount of marbling, as the fat contributes to the tenderness and flavour of the dish. However, it is recommended to avoid large chunks of fat on top of the ribs, as these can be trimmed before cooking.

The size of the ribs is another important consideration. Country-style ribs may vary in size depending on the overall size of the pig, with some ribs featuring a one-bone thickness while others have two bones. If you are cooking multiple ribs in your air fryer, it is essential to ensure they fit comfortably in a single layer with a small amount of space between them for airflow. Therefore, selecting ribs that are not too large will ensure even cooking and allow you to maximise the capacity of your air fryer.

Additionally, the origin of the ribs can impact their flavour and texture. Country-style ribs sourced from the pork shoulder area will have a flavour and consistency similar to baby back ribs or spare ribs. However, it is worth noting that the term "country-style" may have different interpretations in various regions, so clarifying the specific cut with your butcher or supplier is advisable.

Lastly, when choosing the right cut of pork for country-style ribs, it is beneficial to consider the cooking method. Air frying is a convenient and quick way to prepare juicy and tender ribs without the need for slow cooking. By selecting country-style ribs and utilising the air fryer, you can achieve delicious results with minimal effort and cleanup.

Preparing the ribs

Next, you'll want to prepare your dry rub. A typical dry rub will include brown sugar, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. You can also add dried rosemary, thyme, and oregano for an aromatic twist. Mix your chosen ingredients in a small bowl, then sprinkle the rub on both sides of the ribs, massaging it into the meat.

After seasoning, spray or coat the ribs with cooking spray or oil, then place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little room between each rib to allow for airflow. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook the ribs in batches.

Making a dry rub

• Brown sugar
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Chili powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Black pepper
• Salt

To make the dry rub, simply combine your desired ingredients in a small bowl and mix well until they are fully incorporated and there are no lumps. You can adjust the amounts of each ingredient to suit your taste preferences. Once you have mixed the dry rub, you can store it in an airtight container until you are ready to use it.

When you are ready to cook your pork country-style ribs in the air fryer, simply sprinkle the dry rub over the ribs and use your hands to massage it into the meat. Ensure the rub is evenly distributed and fully coats the surface of the ribs. The dry rub will not only add flavor to the meat but will also help to create a crispy, caramelized exterior when cooked in the air fryer.

In addition to the dry rub, you can also enhance the flavor of your pork country-style ribs by using BBQ sauce. You can brush the sauce onto the ribs during the last few minutes of cooking, or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side.

Cooking the ribs

Next, prepare your seasoning or dry rub. A typical dry rub includes brown sugar, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chilli powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. You can also add your own twist with ingredients like dried rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Mix the spices in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture over the ribs, massaging it into all surfaces of the meat.

Once the ribs are seasoned, it's time to preheat the air fryer. Set the temperature between 370-380 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to heat up for 3-5 minutes. While the air fryer is heating, prepare the air fryer basket by coating it with cooking spray or oil. This will prevent the ribs from sticking.

Now, place the ribs into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space between each rib to allow for proper airflow and even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the ribs in batches. Close the air fryer and let them cook for 8-10 minutes, then flip the ribs and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes.

After the ribs have cooked for a total of 16-20 minutes, open the air fryer and brush the tops and sides of the ribs with your favourite barbecue sauce. Place the ribs back into the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize.

Finally, remove the ribs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy and tender ribs. Check the internal temperature of the ribs with a meat thermometer; the FDA recommends an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit for pork to be considered safe to consume.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer country-style pork ribs are best served fresh out of the fryer. They go well with a variety of side dishes, including potato salad, pan-fried green beans, mac and cheese, and various potato dishes.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container or wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 370°F and add more barbecue sauce. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

When serving, it is recommended to let the ribs rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow them to reabsorb their juices. This ensures the meat is tender and juicy.

For a kick of heat, you can use a spicy barbecue sauce or add a pinch of chili powder to the dry rub. For a sweet and savory variation, mix honey and minced garlic into the barbecue sauce. You can also add dried rosemary, thyme, and oregano to the seasoning mix for an aromatic twist.

Frequently asked questions