Pressure Cooker BBQ Pork Ribs

Name: Pressure Cooker BBQ Pork Ribs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 kg pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs); 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tsp salt; 1 cup chicken broth (or water); 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favourite brand)

75 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Tender and juicy BBQ pork ribs cooked to perfection in a pressure cooker.

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Total

75 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Pork ribs are a classic favourite for any BBQ lover, and using a pressure cooker can considerably cut down the cooking time while ensuring the meat remains tender and juicy. Perfect for when you're craving BBQ ribs but don't have hours to spend over a grill. This recipe takes the traditional BBQ rib experience and adapts it for a pressure cooker, allowing you to enjoy the same delicious flavours with less time and effort. The pressure cooker helps lock in the moisture and infuses the ribs with the rich BBQ sauce, making every bite a delight.

Instructions

Prepare the ribs

Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a knife under it and pulling it off.

Pro tip: Use a paper towel to grip the membrane for easier removal.

Season the ribs

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the ribs.

Pro tip: For best results, let the seasoned ribs rest for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight.

Set up the pressure cooker

Pour the chicken broth into the pressure cooker. Place a trivet inside and lay the ribs on top, curling them as needed to fit.

Pro tip: Ensure the ribs are not directly touching the liquid for even cooking.

Cook the ribs

Secure the lid and set the pressure cooker to high pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Pro tip: Natural release helps the ribs stay tender.

Apply BBQ sauce

Remove the ribs carefully and place them on a baking sheet. Brush generously with BBQ sauce.

Pro tip: Reserve some sauce for serving.

Finish under the broiler

Preheat your oven broiler to high. Broil the ribs for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized.

Pro tip: Keep a close eye on the ribs to prevent burning.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a pressure cooker to significantly reduce cooking time while keeping the ribs tender.
Apply the BBQ sauce generously before the final broil for a sticky, caramelized finish.
Let the pressure naturally release for the best texture.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste before cooking for personalized flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to cook ribs in a pressure cooker?

Cook the ribs on high pressure for 25 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural release.

Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?

Yes, spare ribs can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

What is the best BBQ sauce to use?

Use your favourite BBQ sauce. A smoky or sweet sauce works particularly well with ribs.

How do I know when the ribs are done?

The ribs should be tender and pull apart easily. The internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).

Can these ribs be made ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the ribs and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pressure cooker BBQ pork ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider pairing with a crisp, cold beer or a tangy lemonade. These ribs can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or on the grill with a bit more BBQ sauce to freshen them up before serving. If you're planning on a big gathering, you can double the recipe but be sure to cook in batches as overloading the pressure cooker can affect the cooking time.