Instant Pot Ribs Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 to 2 racks baby back ribs ((about 2 ½ pounds/1,125g) (see Notes for cooking 2 racks))
• 1 cup water ((240mL))
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar ((60 mL))
• 2 teaspoons liquid smoke ((optional))
• 1 cup barbecue sauce ((240mL))
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Steps

1. 1

   Stir together the dry rub ingredients in a small bowl.

2. 2

   Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. If needed, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and discard. Coat the ribs all over with the dry rub seasoning.

3. 3

   Place the trivet in the Instant Pot. Add the water, vinegar, and liquid smoke, if using.

4. 4

   Place the ribs upright on the trivet, curling them into a circle with the meaty side of the ribs facing outward.

5. 5

   Secure the lid, making sure the steam valve is sealed. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Let the steam naturally release for 10 minutes, then manually or quick release the remaining steam.

6. 6

   For a more caramelized crust on the ribs, preheat the oven to Broil. Line a large baking sheet with foil.

7. 7

   Carefully remove the ribs and lay them out on the prepared sheet. (They will be very tender!) Slather the ribs on both sides with barbecue sauce.

8. 8

   Broil until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized, about 3 to 4 minutes. Cut the ribs apart and serve with additional sauce. If you don’t want to broil the ribs, you can cut and serve them after brushing with sauce.