Steaming Ribs: Pressure Cooker Perfection In Minutes

Cooking ribs in a pressure cooker is a quick and easy way to achieve tender, fall-off-the-bone meat infused with deep, smoky flavours. This method locks in moisture and flavour, resulting in juicy ribs that are ready in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. By following a few simple steps, you can serve mouthwatering ribs that will impress your guests and satisfy your barbecue cravings any day of the week.

How to prepare ribs for the pressure cooker

Ingredients

You will need the following ingredients to prepare ribs for the pressure cooker:

• 2 pounds of baby back ribs or spare ribs
• Olive oil or vegetable oil
• Apple cider vinegar
• Spices for a dry rub (e.g. smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cinnamon powder, etc.)
• Barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Additional ingredients for the barbecue sauce (e.g. ketchup, brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, Dijon mustard, etc.)
• Water or broth
• Optional: carrots, onion, garlic

Tools

To prepare and cook the ribs, you will need the following tools:

• Pressure cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Aluminium foil
• Basting brush
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Trivet or steamer basket

Removing the Membrane

Before applying any seasonings, remove the thin, shiny membrane from the back of the ribs. This can be done by flipping the ribs over, meat-side down, and wiggling a dull knife (such as a butter knife) between the membrane and the bones to loosen it. Then, use a paper towel to grip and pull away the membrane.

Seasoning the Ribs

Mix your favourite dry rub ingredients together in a bowl. This can include spices such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cinnamon powder, and more. Generously apply the rub to all sides of the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated. You can also add liquid smoke to the ribs for an extra smoky flavour.

Preparing the Pressure Cooker

Pour 1 cup of water or broth into the bottom of the pressure cooker. If you have a trivet or steamer basket, place it inside the pot to keep the ribs elevated above the liquid. You can also add carrots, onion, and garlic to the pot at this stage if you want to enhance the flavour of your barbecue sauce.

Arranging the Ribs

Stand the ribs up along the edge of the pot, wrapping them around the inside. This positioning ensures even cooking. If you are using spare ribs, you may need to cut them into smaller sections to fit in the pot.

Cooking the Ribs

Secure the lid on the pressure cooker, ensuring the valve is set to "sealing." Cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes for baby back ribs or 30 minutes for spare ribs. Allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to "venting" to release any remaining steam.

Optional: Broiling

For a crispy exterior, brush the cooked ribs with barbecue sauce and place them in the oven or under the broiler for a few minutes until the sauce is caramelized.

Serving

Remove the ribs from the pressure cooker, cut them into individual servings, and enjoy them hot with additional barbecue sauce on the side, if desired.

How to season ribs for the pressure cooker

Seasoning is key to making delicious, flavourful ribs. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season ribs for the pressure cooker.

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

Start by removing the thin, shiny membrane from the back of the ribs. This will make the ribs more tender. You can do this by flipping the ribs over, so the meat side is facing down. Then, wiggle a dull knife, such as a butter knife, between the membrane and the ribs to loosen it. Finally, grip the membrane with a paper towel and pull it away, then discard it.

Step 2: Make the Dry Rub

In a small bowl, mix together the spices for the dry rub. A basic dry rub can include brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. You can also add in other spices like chilli powder, cumin, cinnamon powder, or fennel seed to customise the flavour to your taste.

Step 3: Apply the Dry Rub

Generously apply the dry rub to all sides of the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated. Use your hands to rub the spices into the meat. Set the ribs aside while you prepare the other ingredients and the pressure cooker.

Step 4: Prepare the Pressure Cooker

Pour about 1 cup of liquid into the bottom of the pressure cooker. You can use water, broth, apple juice, apple cider vinegar, or even beer to add an extra flavour kick. If you have one, place a trivet or steamer basket inside the pressure cooker to keep the ribs elevated above the liquid.

Step 5: Arrange the Ribs

Stand the ribs up along the edge of the pot, wrapping them around the inside. This positioning allows for even cooking. If you are using one large rack of ribs, you may need to circle them around the pot.

Step 6: Cook the Ribs

Secure the lid on the pressure cooker, ensuring the valve is set to "sealing". Cook the ribs on high pressure for about 20-25 minutes for baby back ribs or 30 minutes for spare ribs. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully turn the valve to "venting" to release any remaining steam.

Step 7: Broil the Ribs (Optional)

For a crispy exterior, brush the cooked ribs with barbecue sauce and place them in the oven or under the broiler for a few minutes until the sauce is caramelized.

And that's it! You now have juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs that are full of flavour. Enjoy!

How much liquid to use in the pressure cooker

The amount of liquid you need to steam ribs in a pressure cooker depends on the type of cooker you have, the number of ribs, and the desired cooking time.

Most recipes call for a combination of water and apple cider vinegar, with some also adding liquid smoke. The amount of liquid required can vary from 1/4 cup to 1 cup of liquid. For example, a recipe for baby back ribs in an Instant Pot calls for 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and 1/4 cup of water. On the other hand, a recipe for spare ribs in a pressure cooker calls for 1 cup of beef stock.

It's important to note that stacking ribs inside the pressure cooker can result in uneven cooking. Therefore, it is recommended to stand the ribs on their bony end and curl them around the edges of the pot to ensure everything fits without overlapping. This will impact how much liquid you need, as more liquid may be required to cover the ribs if they are stacked.

Additionally, the type of pressure cooker you have may affect the amount of liquid needed. For example, electric pressure cookers may require more liquid than stove-top cookers due to the way they build and release pressure.

In general, it's recommended to follow the recipe instructions for the specific type of ribs and pressure cooker you are using to ensure the best results.

How to cook ribs in the pressure cooker

Ingredients and Tools

To cook ribs in a pressure cooker, you'll need the following ingredients and tools:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of baby back ribs or spare ribs
• Olive oil
• Apple cider vinegar
• Spices for a dry rub (e.g. smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, cinnamon, etc.)
• Barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Liquid smoke (optional, but recommended for extra smoky flavour)
• Water or broth

Tools:

• Pressure cooker
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Aluminum foil
• Basting brush
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Trivet or steamer basket

Step-by-Step Guide:

Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, here's a step-by-step guide to cooking ribs in your pressure cooker:

• Prepare the Ribs: Start by removing any membranes from the back of the ribs. This will make them more tender. Cut the ribs into sections that will fit into your pressure cooker.
• Make a Dry Rub: Mix your favourite spices together to create a dry rub. Generously apply the rub to all sides of the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated.
• Prep the Pressure Cooker: Pour 1 cup of water or broth into the bottom of the pressure cooker. Place a trivet or steamer basket inside to keep the ribs elevated above the liquid.
• Arrange the Ribs: Stand the ribs up along the edge of the pot, wrapping them around the inside. This positioning ensures even cooking.
• Cook: Secure the lid on the pressure cooker, making sure the valve is set to "sealing." For baby back ribs, cook on high pressure for about 20-25 minutes. For spare ribs, cook for about 30 minutes.
• Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully turn the valve to "venting" to release any remaining steam.
• Broil (Optional): If you want a crispy exterior, brush the cooked ribs with barbecue sauce and place them in the oven for a few minutes until the sauce is caramelized.
• Serve: Remove the ribs from the pressure cooker, cut them into individual servings, and enjoy them hot with additional barbecue sauce on the side, if desired.

Tips and Tricks:

• Cooking time may vary depending on your altitude and the type of ribs you use. For fall-off-the-bone tender ribs, cook them for a longer period of time.
• If you want a smoky flavour, add a few drops of liquid smoke to your barbecue sauce.
• You can also make your own barbecue sauce by simmering ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, and other spices in the pressure cooker.
• For easier cleanup, line your baking sheet or cutting board with foil before placing the ribs on it.

How to finish ribs in the oven for a crispy exterior

After cooking your ribs in the pressure cooker, you can finish them off in the oven to add a crispy exterior. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This can be done by sliding a knife under the membrane and using your fingers or a paper towel to peel it away from the bones. The membrane can be tough when cooked, so removing it ensures more tender ribs.

Step 2: Season the Ribs

Prepare your favorite dry rub or use a simple combination of salt and pepper. Generously apply the rub to all sides of the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated. You can also use a store-bought BBQ spice rub or seasoned salt.

Step 3: Wrap and Rest the Ribs

Wrap the seasoned ribs tightly in aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture and keep the ribs tender. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes while you preheat your oven.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to a low temperature, around 275°F to 300°F. A low temperature will help prevent the ribs from drying out and ensure they stay tender.

Step 5: Bake the Ribs

Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and put them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 2 to 2.5 hours for baby back ribs or 3 to 3.5 hours for spare ribs. This extended cooking time at a low temperature will help break down the tough rib meat, making it fall-off-the-bone tender.

Step 6: Unwrap and Sauce the Ribs

Once the ribs are tender, carefully remove them from the oven and unwrap the foil. Brush both sides of the ribs generously with your favorite barbecue sauce. You can use a store-bought sauce or make your own.

Step 7: Broil the Ribs

Move an oven rack to the top position and turn on your oven's broiler to high. Place the sauced ribs under the broiler for a few minutes until the barbecue sauce begins to caramelize and the exterior becomes crispy. Keep a close eye on the ribs during this step to avoid burning.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the ribs are juicy and tender. Serve the ribs with extra barbecue sauce on the side, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs with a crispy exterior!

Frequently asked questions