Air-Fried Spare Ribs: A Quick, Crispy Delight

Spare ribs are a delicious, juicy, and tender meal that can be cooked in an air fryer in a short amount of time. The air fryer is perfect for cooking spare ribs as it gives them a crispy exterior while keeping the insides tender and juicy. The air fryer also requires minimal oil, making it a healthier option, and it's easy to clean up afterward. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook spare ribs in an air fryer, including preparation, cooking time, and serving suggestions. We will also offer tips on how to get the most out of your air fryer and ensure your spare ribs are cooked to perfection.

Cooking Spare Ribs in an Air Fryer

Pre-cooking preparation

Preparing spare ribs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get delicious, tender, and juicy ribs. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Firstly, decide on the amount of meat you want to cook. A good rule of thumb is to prepare about 2.5 pounds of ribs per meal. If you have leftovers, don't worry, as they can be easily reheated and still taste great.

Next, gather your ingredients. Spare ribs refer to pork ribs, which tend to be meatier and full of flavor. For a dry rub, you can use a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar. These spices will give the ribs a nice kick and a smoky flavor. You can also add liquid smoke to enhance that smoky taste. If you prefer saucier ribs, you'll need barbecue sauce, which you can brush on after the initial cooking.

Now, it's time to prepare the ribs. Start by removing any membranes from the rack of ribs. This will help the seasonings penetrate the meat better. Then, cut the rack into portions that will fit in your air fryer. You may need to cut them into three or four pieces, depending on the size of your air fryer. Try snaking the ribs around the outside edge of the basket to maximize space, but ensure they don't overlap too much.

Before applying the dry rub, pat the ribs dry with a paper towel. This will help the seasonings adhere better and give the ribs a crispier texture. Now, mix your chosen spices together to create the dry rub. Generously apply the rub all over the ribs, making sure to coat both sides. You can also rub the ribs with a mixture of olive oil and liquid smoke before applying the seasonings to enhance the flavor. Once the ribs are seasoned, set them aside for 30 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Finally, preheat your air fryer. Different recipes suggest varying temperatures, ranging from 350°F to 400°F. Adjust the temperature according to your air fryer and personal preference. Spray the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

With these steps, you've completed the pre-cooking preparation for your spare ribs. Now, you're ready to start cooking!

Air fryer settings

Firstly, preheating your air fryer is important. Different recipes suggest preheating temperatures ranging from 350 degrees Fahrenheit to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions for preheating your specific air fryer model.

Once preheated, you can place the ribs in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cut the ribs into portions or snake them around the edge of the basket to ensure even cooking. It is important to ensure that the ribs are not overcrowded in the basket and that they have sufficient space to cook evenly.

The cooking time and temperature will vary depending on your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare ribs, cook at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, then increase the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for an additional 10 minutes. For well-done ribs, you can cook them at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes, then brush with barbecue sauce and cook uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Always ensure that the ribs reach an internal temperature of 195-200 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure food safety.

Cooking time and temperature

Firstly, preheat your air fryer. Different sources recommend preheating temperatures ranging from 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C). It is important to refer to your air fryer's instructions manual for the optimal preheating temperature.

Once preheated, place the ribs in the air fryer basket. The cooking time for the first round of frying varies depending on the weight and cut of the ribs. For instance, 2.5 pounds of ribs may cook for 15 minutes on each side, while a larger batch of ribs may require a longer cooking time. It is recommended to cook the ribs in batches to ensure even cooking.

After the initial cooking time, remove the ribs from the air fryer and brush them with barbecue sauce. Place the ribs back in the air fryer for an additional 5-10 minutes of cooking time. This step ensures that the sauce is cooked onto the ribs, creating a desirable char.

Finally, allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period lets the juices redistribute within the meat, ensuring juicy and tender ribs.

It is worth noting that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer's model and size. Therefore, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on the ribs during the cooking process to prevent overcooking or drying out.

Sauce and seasoning

When it comes to seasoning spare ribs for the air fryer, there are a few different approaches you can take. One popular method is to use a dry rub, which you can make by mixing together a variety of spices and herbs. Another option is to use a wet rub or marinade, which can help to keep the meat moist and add extra flavour. You can also simply brush the ribs with barbecue sauce before or after cooking, or serve the sauce as a dip on the side.

For a dry rub, you can combine spices such as brown sugar, white sugar, sweet or smoked paprika, garlic powder or granulated garlic, pepper, cumin, onion powder, and Greek seasoning. You can also add salt to the mixture, or use a salt rub to coat the ribs before applying the spice mix. The brown sugar will help to create a nice bark on the outside of the meat, while the smoked paprika adds a smoky flavour. If you want to add some heat, include some chilli powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes.

Some recipes suggest using a wet rub or marinade, which can be made by combining olive oil, liquid smoke, and spices. You can also try mixing barbecue sauce with apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices to create a wet rub that will give your ribs a sticky, sweet glaze.

If you prefer a simpler approach, you can just use salt and pepper as a dry rub, or brush the ribs with barbecue sauce before returning them to the air fryer for a final cook. You can also serve the barbecue sauce as a dip on the side, along with other sauces like ranch or blue cheese.

Storing and reheating

Storing your leftover ribs is easy. You can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them. Place the ribs in a shallow container or freezer bag, making sure to remove any excess air, and store them in the freezer for up to two or three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your ribs again, simply reheat them in the air fryer! Reheating ribs in the air fryer is a great way to maintain their flavor and texture without making them soggy. It's also super easy and fast—it usually takes less than 10 minutes to get tender, juicy, and tasty ribs.

To reheat your ribs, preheat your air fryer to 350°F to 380°F. If your ribs are frozen, you can preheat your air fryer to around 350°F and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. For refrigerated ribs, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for about 5-8 minutes, until warmed thoroughly. If you're reheating sauced ribs, consider using an air fryer pan or a parchment round/silicone liner to catch any drips and make cleanup easier.

Remember that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your ribs and the specific air fryer you're using. Keep an eye on your ribs to make sure they don't overcook or dry out. With these simple steps, you can enjoy your delicious, juicy ribs again and again!

Frequently asked questions