As the sun dips below the horizon, and the aroma of charcoal-infused barbecue fills the air, nothing quite compares to the allure of tender, succulent ribs dripping with tangy, smoky BBQ sauce. Traditionally, achieving such perfection required hours of slow cooking over an open flame, but not anymore! Prepare to be amazed as we unleash the power of the Instant Pot, the modern kitchen wizardry, to create mouthwatering BBQ ribs that’ll have your taste buds dancing with joy. With a twist of our unique ingredients and an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide, let’s dive into this culinary adventure.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (approximately 3 pounds each)
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spiciness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup water
- Mesquite wood chips (for a smoky twist)
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Start by removing the thin membrane on the back of the ribs; this ensures tenderness and allows the flavors to penetrate. Pat them dry with a paper towel, and sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly on both sides.
Step 2: A Twist of Flavor
Our secret ingredient for an enticing twist is the mesquite wood chips. Soak a handful of chips in water for about 30 minutes, then place them in a foil packet and pierce a few holes on top. This packet will impart the unmistakable smoky essence to your ribs. Set it aside for later.
Step 3: The Magic of Instant Pot
Add the apple cider vinegar to the Instant Pot, followed by the water. Place the steaming rack inside the pot. Carefully curl the seasoned ribs around the pot, ensuring they don’t overlap too much. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
Step 4: Set the Timer
Cooking time may vary depending on your Instant Pot model, but generally, 25 minutes on high pressure should work well. While the ribs cook, let’s create a lip-smacking BBQ sauce.
Step 5: Sweet and Smoky BBQ Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine your favorite BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the spice levels to suit your palate. Mix it well until all the flavors blend into a tantalizing sauce.
Step 6: Ready, Set, Sear!
Once the timer goes off, perform a quick pressure release. Carefully transfer the ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet. Now comes the exciting part! Generously brush both sides of the ribs with the prepared BBQ sauce, ensuring it’s coated thoroughly.
Step 7: BBQ Time!
Fire up the grill to a medium-high heat. Place the sauced ribs on the grill and let them cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until you achieve a beautiful caramelized crust.
Step 8: Mesquite Magic
Remember that foil packet of soaked mesquite wood chips? Toss it directly onto the hot coals or grill grates. Close the lid to let the mesquite smoke work its magic, infusing your ribs with an alluring aroma.
Step 9: Savor the Flavor
Remove the ribs from the grill, and with bated breath, slice them between the bones. As the knife glides effortlessly through the tender meat, you’ll know your BBQ ribs are perfection!
Gather your loved ones, and let the feast begin! These Instant Pot BBQ ribs, with their unique blend of flavors and smoky charm, will leave everyone craving for more. So unleash your inner grill master, and embark on a journey of BBQ bliss!
