Master the Art of Instant Pot Cooking: How to Perfectly Prepare Beef Ribs in Minutes

AvatarByErick Benitez How To Cook (Dishes)

Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to cook beef ribs in an Instant Pot. If you love tender and flavorful ribs but don’t have the time or patience for hours of slow cooking, then the Instant Pot is your new best friend. This versatile kitchen appliance has revolutionized the way we prepare meals, and when it comes to beef ribs, it’s a game changer. In this article, we will explore the simple yet effective steps to cooking mouth-watering beef ribs in your Instant Pot. Say goodbye to tough and chewy ribs, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy and delicious recipe. Let’s dive in!

Introduction

The Instant Pot has become a staple appliance in many kitchens, thanks to its efficiency and versatility. While it’s well-known for making quick and delicious meals, many people are unaware of its capability to cook beef ribs. With the right technique and settings, the Instant Pot can produce tender and mouthwatering beef ribs in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods. In this guide, we will walk you through how to cook beef ribs in an Instant Pot like a pro.

What You’ll Need

Before we get into the step-by-step process of cooking beef ribs in an Instant Pot, let’s go over the necessary equipment and ingredients:

Equipment:

  • 6-quart or 8-quart Instant Pot
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer
  • Baking sheet or aluminum foil
  • Kitchen brush (optional)

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 pounds of beef ribs, preferably with some fat marbling for flavor (baby back or spare ribs both work well)
  • Salt and pepper for seasoning
  • Dry rub or BBQ sauce (optional)

Selecting the Right Type of Beef Ribs

When it comes to selecting beef ribs for your instant pot, you have a few options which include baby back ribs, spare ribs, short ribs or boneless country-style ribs. The most popular choice for cooking in an instant pot is baby back ribs due to their smaller size and leaner meat. Spare ribs are larger and have more connective tissue, while short ribs require a longer cooking time. Boneless country-style ribs can also be used but may result in slightly different cooking times.

Preparing the Beef Ribs

1. Remove the beef ribs from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. If needed, trim any excess fat from the ribs using a sharp knife. Leave a small amount of fat for flavor.
3. Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
4. If desired, you can also add a dry rub or BBQ sauce for added flavor at this point.
5. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.

Using the Instant Pot

1. Plug in your Instant Pot and ensure it is clean and dry before use.
2. Place the metal trivet into the pot, making sure it is stable and level.
3. Pour in 1 cup of water or beef broth into the bottom of the pot.
4. Carefully place the seasoned beef ribs on top of the trivet, positioning them upright if needed to fit them all in.
5. Close and lock the lid, making sure that the valve is set to sealing (not venting).
6. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on your Instant Pot and adjust the time using the ‘+’ or ‘-‘ buttons to set it to 25-30 minutes of cooking time, depending on your preference for tenderness.
7. Once finished cooking, allow natural steam release for at least 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure by carefully turning the valve to venting using tongs or a kitchen cloth to avoid burns.

Finishing Touches

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler setting on high while you wait for the pressure to naturally release from your Instant Pot.
2. Once all pressure has been released and you are able to safely open your Instant Pot, remove beef ribs carefully using tongs and place them onto a baking sheet lined with foil.
3. Optional: Using a kitchen brush, coat the ribs evenly with BBQ sauce or any other glaze of your choice.
4. Place the baking sheet on the top rack under the broiler and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the desired level of caramelization is achieved.
5. Remove from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your beef ribs are perfectly cooked and ready to eat, it’s time to think about how you want to serve them. Here are a few serving suggestions to consider:

  • Serve as is with some fresh herbs sprinkled on top.
  • Pair with your favorite side dishes such as coleslaw, mac and cheese, or roasted vegetables.
  • Make street-style tacos by slicing the beef ribs into strips and topping them with salsa, avocado, and cilantro.
  • Use leftovers for delicious sandwiches or wraps.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Using an Instant Pot can be intimidating for first-time users, but don’t worry if you encounter some issues along the way.

Beef ribs are a popular and delicious cut of meat that can be enjoyed by anyone, whether you are a meat-lover or just looking for a tasty dinner option. Traditionally, beef ribs are cooked low and slow in a smoker or on a grill, which can be time-consuming. However, with the rise of the Instant Pot and its ability to cook food quickly without sacrificing flavor, people have started adapting their favorite recipes to this versatile appliance. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to cook beef ribs in an Instant Pot, step by step.

Choosing the Right Beef Ribs

The key to preparing mouth-watering beef ribs is choosing the right cut of meat. There are two types of beef ribs that you can find in most grocery stores – back ribs and short ribs. While both are delicious, they require different cooking methods. Back ribs come from high on the top rib section of the cow and have more meat than bone. These ribs are best suited for smoking or grilling as they require longer cooking times to become tender.

On the other hand, short ribs come from the bottom rib section and have less meat compared to bone. They also have more fatty marbling which makes them perfect for cooking in an Instant Pot as they become incredibly tender with less cooking time. When purchasing short ribs, look for those that have good marbling and evenly distributed fat.

Preparation

Once you have selected your beef ribs, it’s time to prepare them for cooking in the Instant Pot. Begin by removing any excess fat from the ribs as too much fat can cause your dish to become greasy. Next, season your beef ribs with your favorite rub or marinade. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend or make your own with spices like garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Massage the seasoning into the ribs, making sure it is evenly coated on all sides.

Searing the Ribs

To add an extra layer of flavor and texture to your beef ribs, we recommend searing them before pressure cooking. This step is optional, but we highly recommend it for the best-tasting results. Heat up your Instant Pot on the sauté setting and add a small amount of oil to the pot. Once the oil is hot, carefully place your seasoned ribs in the pot and sear them for about 1-2 minutes per side until they are golden brown.

Pressure Cooking

Now it’s time to cook your beef ribs in the Instant Pot. Start by adding a cup of beef broth or water to the pot, making sure to scrape off any brown bits from searing with a wooden spoon. This will add depth of flavor to your dish. Place your beef ribs in one single layer at the bottom of the pot, and close the lid securely. Select ‘meat/stew’ or ‘pressure cook’ mode, depending on your Instant Pot model, and adjust cooking time according to the thickness of your short ribs – around 30-40 minutes for thin-cut ribs or 45-50 minutes for thicker ones.

Natural Release vs Quick Release

After your beef ribs have finished cooking, there are two ways to release pressure from your Instant Pot – natural release or quick release. Natural release allows pressure to subside gradually, while quick release does it immediately by turning a valve on top of your Instant Pot. For recipes that contain high-fat content like short ribs, we recommend using natural release as it prevents overcooking and drying out of meat.

Serving Suggestions

Once you have released pressure completely from your Instant Pot, carefully open the lid and check the doneness of your beef ribs. The meat should be fall-off-the-bone tender and should shred easily with a fork. If not, simply put the lid back on and pressure cook for an additional 5 minutes.

When it comes to serving your Instant Pot short ribs, you can serve them as is or with any side of your choice. These tender and flavorful ribs go well with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a side of roasted vegetables. You can also use the cooking liquid from the Instant Pot as a base for making gravy or sauce to drizzle over your ribs.

Cleaning Your Instant Pot

After you have enjoyed your delicious beef ribs, it’s important to clean and maintain your Instant Pot for future use. As it is an electrical appliance, do not submerge it in water. Instead, use warm soapy water to clean the outside of the pot and use a damp cloth to carefully wipe down the inside. For tough stains or build-up, you can use baking soda paste or white vinegar to remove them. Always make sure to dry all the parts thoroughly before storing.

Cooking beef ribs in an Instant Pot is not only convenient but also produces incredibly tender and flavorful results. With this

Q: What ingredients do I need to cook beef ribs in Instant Pot?
A: You will need beef ribs, your choice of seasonings, a little bit of oil, and a cup of beef broth or water.

Q: How long does it take to cook beef ribs in Instant Pot?
A: The total cooking time for beef ribs in Instant Pot is around 35-40 minutes. This includes the time for the pot to come to pressure and the natural release time.

Q: Can I brown the beef ribs in Instant Pot before pressure cooking?
A: Yes, you can use the sauté function on your Instant Pot to brown the beef ribs before pressure cooking. This adds flavor and helps seal in the juices.

Q: What is the recommended pressure release method for cooking beef ribs in Instant Pot?
A: For flavorful and tender beef ribs, it is best to use natural release method. This means letting the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes after cooking is complete before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Q: How do I know when my Instant Pot has reached high pressure?
A: Your Instant Pot will beep and display “ON” on the screen when it has reached high pressure. The floating valve on top of the lid will also pop up and lock into place.

Q: Can I add BBQ sauce or marinade while cooking beef ribs in Instant Pot?
A: It is not recommended to add BBQ sauce or marinade while cooking under high pressure as they can burn easily. It is best to add these sauces after removing the beef ribs from Instant Pot and using the sauté function for a few minutes.

In conclusion, learning how to cook beef ribs in an Instant Pot is a game-changing skill that can elevate your cooking and bring a whole new level of tenderness and flavor to this hearty protein. With the help of modern technology, cooking beef ribs has become more accessible and fuss-free, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or weekend barbeque. However, it is crucial to remember key tips such as searing the meat prior to cooking and using the correct amount of liquid to ensure the best results. Experimenting with different seasonings and marinades can also add exciting flavors to your beef ribs.

Using an Instant Pot not only reduces the cooking time but also helps retain the essential nutrients and flavors of the meat. With its pressure-cooking feature, tough cuts of beef ribs can be transformed into succulent pieces of meat in just a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. Moreover, its versatility allows for various cooking techniques such as steaming, sautéing, and slow cooking.

It is essential to note that proper food safety measures should always be followed when handling beef ribs, including washing hands thoroughly before and after handling raw meat, using separate cutting boards for raw meat and other ingredients, and ensuring proper cooking temperatures are reached. This will help prevent

Author Profile

Erick Benitez
Erick Benitez
In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.