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Instant Pot Spare Ribs

These Homemade Instant Pot Spare Ribs are incredibly tender, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any night of the week.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ribs
  • 2 pounds Spare ribs Look for ribs with nice marbling.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Adds a nice pinch of heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder For savory, aromatic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder Complements the spices beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Gives a subtle smokiness.
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite, homemade or store-bought.
  • 1/4 cup Apple cider vinegar Adds tanginess and tenderizes the meat.
  • 1/2 cup Water Helps create steam in the Instant Pot.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs if it hasn't been done already.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Rub this spice mixture all over the ribs.
Cooking
  1. Place the ribs upright in the Instant Pot.
  2. Add apple cider vinegar and water at the bottom.
  3. Lock the lid in place and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 25 minutes.
  4. Allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes, then do a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
  5. Carefully remove the ribs and place them on a foil-lined baking tray.
  6. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce all over them.
  7. Optional: Broil the ribs for about 5-7 minutes in your oven for a caramelized finish.
Serving
  1. Slice the ribs into portions and serve with more BBQ sauce if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the ribs overnight after seasoning. Stick to 25 minutes for tender ribs, and let them sit for a few minutes after cooking to help the flavors settle.