Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen, waiting for your boneless pork ribs to cook to perfection? Look no further! The Instant Pot is a game-changer when it comes to cooking this delicious dish. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot, resulting in tender, juicy, and flavorful meat that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Understanding Boneless Pork Ribs
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at boneless pork ribs. Unlike traditional pork ribs, which have a bone running through the center, boneless pork ribs are made from the meat of the pork loin or shoulder, which has been cut into strips and formed into a rib-like shape. This makes them easier to cook and more convenient to eat.
The Benefits of Cooking Boneless Pork Ribs in the Instant Pot
Cooking boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot offers several benefits, including:
- Faster Cooking Time: The Instant Pot can cook boneless pork ribs up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- Tender and Juicy Meat: The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function ensures that the meat is cooked evenly and remains tender and juicy.
- Easy to Prepare: Simply season the ribs, add them to the Instant Pot, and let the machine do the work for you.
- Less Mess: The Instant Pot contains the cooking liquid and meat, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To cook boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1-2 pounds boneless pork ribs
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Instant Pot or other electric pressure cooker
- Trivet or steamer basket
- Tongs or slotted spoon
Optional Ingredients
- Wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional)
- Additional barbecue sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions
Cooking boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Rinse the boneless pork ribs under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat or connective tissue, if necessary.
Step 2: Season the Ribs
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Add the Ribs to the Instant Pot
Place the trivet or steamer basket in the Instant Pot, then add the ribs. You can stack the ribs on top of each other, if necessary.
Step 4: Add the Cooking Liquid
In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce and chicken broth. Pour the cooking liquid over the ribs, making sure they’re fully submerged.
Step 5: Cook the Ribs
Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to “sealing”. Press the “meat/stew” button or “manual” mode, then set the cooking time to 20-25 minutes at high pressure.
Step 6: Let the Pressure Release
Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes. Then, quick-release any remaining pressure by opening the valve.
Step 7: Remove and Serve
Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the ribs from the Instant Pot. Place them on a plate or cutting board, then brush with additional barbecue sauce (if desired). Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you get the most out of your boneless pork ribs:
- Use a Variety of Sauces: Experiment with different barbecue sauces, such as Kansas City-style, Carolina-style, or Alabama-style.
- Add Some Heat: If you like spicy food, add more cayenne pepper or use hot sauce to give your ribs an extra kick.
- Try Different Woods: If you have a smoker or charcoal grill, try using different types of wood chips or chunks to add smoky flavor to your ribs.
- Serve with Sides: Serve your boneless pork ribs with classic sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.
Conclusion
Cooking boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot is a game-changer for anyone who loves tender, juicy, and flavorful meat. With its fast cooking time, easy preparation, and minimal cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Experiment with different sauces, seasonings, and woods to find your favorite flavor combination. Happy cooking!
What are boneless pork ribs and how do they differ from traditional ribs?
Boneless pork ribs are a type of pork cut that is made from the meat of the ribcage, but with the bones removed. They are often made from the pork loin or shoulder, which is then cut into strips to resemble traditional ribs. The main difference between boneless pork ribs and traditional ribs is the absence of bones, which makes them easier to cook and eat.
Boneless pork ribs are also often leaner than traditional ribs, which can make them a popular choice for those looking for a healthier alternative. However, they can also be more prone to drying out if not cooked properly, which is why using a pressure cooker like the Instant Pot can be a game-changer for cooking boneless pork ribs.
Why use the Instant Pot to cook boneless pork ribs?
The Instant Pot is a great way to cook boneless pork ribs because it allows for quick and even cooking. The pressure cooker function of the Instant Pot can cook the ribs up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods, which makes it a great option for busy weeknights. Additionally, the Instant Pot’s ability to cook the ribs in a sealed environment helps to retain moisture and flavor, resulting in tender and juicy ribs.
Using the Instant Pot to cook boneless pork ribs also eliminates the need for constant monitoring and stirring, which can be a hassle when cooking ribs on the stovetop or in the oven. Simply add the ribs and your desired seasonings to the Instant Pot, set the timer, and let the pot do the work for you.
What type of seasonings and sauces work well with boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot?
The type of seasonings and sauces that work well with boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot are endless, but some popular options include BBQ sauce, honey, brown sugar, and spices like paprika and garlic powder. You can also try using different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar, to add a tangy flavor to the ribs.
When using sauces and seasonings with boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot, it’s best to add them towards the end of the cooking time. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat without becoming too overpowering. You can also try marinating the ribs in your desired seasonings and sauces before cooking for added flavor.
How long does it take to cook boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot?
The cooking time for boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot will depend on the size and thickness of the ribs, as well as the desired level of tenderness. Generally, boneless pork ribs can be cooked in the Instant Pot in as little as 10-15 minutes, but cooking times can range from 10-30 minutes.
It’s best to cook the ribs on high pressure for 10-15 minutes, followed by a 5-10 minute natural release. This will result in tender and juicy ribs that are fall-apart easy to eat. If you prefer your ribs to be more tender, you can cook them for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Can I cook frozen boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot. In fact, the Instant Pot is a great way to cook frozen ribs because it allows for quick and even thawing and cooking. Simply add the frozen ribs to the Instant Pot, along with your desired seasonings and sauces, and cook on high pressure for 15-20 minutes.
Keep in mind that cooking frozen ribs may require a slightly longer cooking time than fresh ribs, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Also, make sure to check the ribs for tenderness and cook for additional time if needed.
How do I prevent boneless pork ribs from becoming dry and tough in the Instant Pot?
To prevent boneless pork ribs from becoming dry and tough in the Instant Pot, it’s essential to cook them with enough liquid and to not overcook them. Make sure to add at least 1 cup of liquid, such as broth or sauce, to the Instant Pot when cooking the ribs. This will help to keep the ribs moist and tender.
It’s also important to not overcook the ribs. Boneless pork ribs can become dry and tough if they are cooked for too long, so be sure to check the ribs for tenderness and cook for additional time if needed. You can also try adding a little bit of fat, such as oil or butter, to the Instant Pot to help keep the ribs moist.
Can I make boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot ahead of time and reheat them later?
Yes, you can make boneless pork ribs in the Instant Pot ahead of time and reheat them later. In fact, the Instant Pot is a great way to make ribs ahead of time because it allows for easy reheating. Simply cook the ribs as desired, then let them cool and refrigerate or freeze them for later use.
To reheat the ribs, simply add them to the Instant Pot with a little bit of liquid, such as broth or sauce, and cook on low pressure for 5-10 minutes. You can also reheat the ribs in the oven or on the stovetop, but the Instant Pot is a great way to reheat them quickly and evenly.