Air Fryer Ribs: Cooking Perfection In An Oven

Cooking ribs in an air fryer oven is a quick and easy way to get tender and juicy results. Air fryer ribs are also healthier than fried or baked ribs, as they require less oil or butter to cook. The cooking time depends on the size and thickness of the ribs, the power of the air fryer, and the number of ribs being cooked at once. However, on average, ribs in an air fryer take about 30 minutes to cook at 350°F to 380°F.

Choosing the right ribs

Type of Ribs:

The most commonly used ribs for air fryer oven cooking are baby back ribs. These ribs come from the upper ribcage of the pig and are known for their tenderness. They cook faster than other types of ribs, making them ideal for air fryer cooking. Spare ribs are another option, but they will take longer to cook.

Bone-In vs. Boneless:

Bone-in ribs are typically preferred for air fryer oven cooking as they tend to be more tender and flavorful. However, boneless ribs, such as boneless beef short ribs, can also be used if you prefer a less messy option.

Freshness and Quality:

Always choose fresh, high-quality ribs from a reputable source. Look for ribs that are pinkish-red in color with a firm texture. Avoid ribs with excessive amounts of fat, sinew, or discoloration.

Size and Thickness:

The size and thickness of the ribs will impact the cooking time and doneness. Larger and thicker ribs will take longer to cook, while smaller and thinner ribs will cook faster. Choose ribs that fit comfortably in your air fryer basket, or cut them into portions if needed.

Marbling:

Look for ribs with a good amount of marbling, which is the flecks of fat within the meat. Marbling adds flavor and helps keep the ribs moist and juicy during the cooking process. Well-marbled ribs will result in more tender and flavorful meat.

Dry vs. Wet:

You can choose between dry ribs and wet ribs, referring to whether they have been previously frozen or not. Dry ribs are fresh and have never been frozen, while wet ribs have been cryovac-packed and can be stored for longer periods. Dry ribs are generally preferred as they tend to have better texture and flavor, but wet ribs can be more convenient if you're planning ahead.

Preparing the ribs

Preparing ribs for cooking in an air fryer oven is a quick and easy process. First, you will need to decide on the type of ribs you want to cook. Baby back ribs are a popular choice as they are tender, cook faster, and are perfect for the air fryer. Spare ribs are also an option, but they will take a little longer to cook.

Once you have your ribs, you will need to remove the membrane from the back of the rack of ribs. You can then choose to divide the rack into portions – either three or four equal portions, depending on the size of your air fryer basket. Wrap each portion in tin foil.

Next, it's time to season the ribs. Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel and then apply your chosen seasoning or rub to both sides of the ribs. You can make your own seasoning with spices like paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and mustard, or you can use a store-bought spice rub.

Finally, preheat your air fryer oven to the desired temperature – this can range from 350°F to 380°F, depending on your preference and the recipe you are following.

Seasoning and marinating

Next, it's time to season. You can use a store-bought seasoning mix or make your own. If you want to make your own, try combining spices like paprika, cumin, garlic powder, mustard, pepper, and salt. You can also add brown sugar and white sugar to the mix for a sweeter flavour. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs to find your perfect blend. Once you've created your spice rub, generously sprinkle or rub it onto both sides of the ribs. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavour.

After seasoning, some recipes suggest wrapping the ribs in plastic wrap or tin foil and letting them marinate in the refrigerator overnight. This step is optional but can help to intensify the flavours and keep the ribs moist. If you're short on time, you can skip this step and go straight to cooking. However, for the best results and maximum flavour, it's recommended to plan ahead and give the ribs a good amount of time to marinate.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for ribs in an air fryer oven can vary depending on the thickness of the ribs, the model of the air fryer, and your desired level of doneness. However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow to ensure your ribs turn out juicy and tender.

Firstly, it is important to preheat your air fryer oven. Most recipes recommend preheating to temperatures between 350°F and 380°F (175°C to 195°C). It is worth noting that some sources suggest cooking the ribs at 375°F for 25 minutes, and then increasing the temperature to 400°F for the final 5 minutes of cooking. This higher temperature at the end helps to set the barbecue sauce and give the ribs a slightly crispy texture.

Once preheated, place the ribs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the ribs in batches. Cook the ribs for around 25 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking.

After the initial cooking time, brush the ribs with barbecue sauce and return them to the air fryer. Cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized and set.

The total cooking time for ribs in an air fryer oven is typically between 30 and 35 minutes, depending on the thickness of the ribs and your desired level of doneness. It is important to note that spare ribs may take longer than baby back ribs due to being meatier.

The best way to determine if your ribs are cooked to your desired level of doneness is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ideal internal temperature for ribs is between 190°F and 200°F. Once the ribs reach this temperature, they are ready to be removed from the air fryer and allowed to rest before serving.

Storing and reheating

Storing your leftover ribs is an important step to preserving their flavour and texture. If you're planning to eat them within a few days, store them in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to 4 days.

If you want to keep them longer, it's best to freeze them. Allow the ribs to cool to room temperature, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil to preserve their moisture and flavour. Place the wrapped ribs in a sealed bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen ribs again, it's best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. This slow thawing process helps maintain the ribs' texture and flavour.

Now, let's talk about reheating. The air fryer is an excellent option for reheating your ribs and keeping them moist, juicy, and tender. Preheat your air fryer to around 350-380°F (175-190°C). If your ribs are sauced, consider using a silicone liner, parchment round, or air fryer pan for easier cleanup.

Place the ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the ribs and your desired level of warmth. Check the internal temperature, which should be at least 110°F, and add more time as needed.

And that's it! You can now enjoy your leftover ribs, which taste just as delicious as the first time.

Frequently asked questions