Imagine tender, fall-off-the-bone spare ribs with a perfect balance of smoky spices and tangy BBQ sauce, all prepared in just 45 minutes using your Instant Pot. No more hours of slow cooking or complicated techniques - this recipe delivers restaurant-quality ribs right in your own kitchen, guaranteed to impress your family and friends with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds spare ribs
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Remove the membrane from the back of the spare ribs by sliding a knife under the thin white membrane and peeling it off completely. This helps the seasoning penetrate the meat and makes the ribs more tender.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create the dry rub. Thoroughly coat both sides of the spare ribs with the seasoning mixture, pressing the spices into the meat.
- Pour water into the bottom of the Instant Pot. Place the trivet inside the pot and carefully roll the seasoned ribs to fit them inside, standing them up vertically against the sides of the pot.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select the Manual or Pressure Cook function. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release.
- Carefully remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush generously with BBQ sauce, ensuring complete coverage.
- Optional: For caramelized edges, place the sauced ribs under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the sauce is slightly charred and bubbling.
- Let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting between the bones. Serve hot with additional BBQ sauce on the side.
Tips
- Always remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.
- Don't skip pressing the dry rub into the meat - this ensures deep, even seasoning.
- Use a high-quality BBQ sauce for the best results, and consider making your own for a personalized touch.
- The natural pressure release is crucial for keeping the meat juicy and preventing it from becoming tough.
- If you want extra caramelization, don't skip the optional broiling step - it adds incredible depth to the flavor.
- Let the ribs rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and delicious.
- For easier cleanup, use a foil-lined baking sheet when applying BBQ sauce and broiling.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 130mg
