Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to make good ribs. While traditional methods like grilling or slow-cooking in the oven can yield excellent results, a pressure cooker can significantly speed up the cooking process and still produce tender and flavorful ribs.
Here's a general outline of how to use a pressure cooker to make ribs:
Ingredients:
- Ribs (baby back ribs or spare ribs)
- Dry rub or seasoning of your choice
- BBQ sauce (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the ribs: Start by seasoning the ribs with your favorite dry rub or seasoning. You can use a store-bought rub or make your own blend of spices.
Sear the ribs (optional): For added flavor, you can sear the ribs on a hot skillet or grill before placing them in the pressure cooker. This step is not necessary, but it can enhance the taste and appearance of the ribs.
Pressure cook the ribs: Place a cup or two of liquid in the pressure cooker, such as water, broth, apple juice, or beer. Add the seasoned ribs to the cooker. The liquid will help create steam, which is essential for pressure cooking.
Set the pressure cooker: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific pressure cooker model. Typically, you will close the lid and set the pressure valve to the "sealed" position. Cook the ribs on high pressure for about 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the ribs and the pressure cooker's power.
Natural release or quick release: After the cooking time is up, you can do a natural release, where you let the pressure come down on its own, or a quick release, where you carefully release the pressure manually following your cooker's instructions.
Finish on the grill or in the oven (optional): To give the ribs a crispy and smoky finish, you can brush them with BBQ sauce and grill or broil them in the oven for a few minutes. This step is optional, but it adds a nice glaze and texture to the ribs.
Remember that the cooking times may vary based on the type and size of the ribs, as well as the pressure cooker you're using. Always refer to your pressure cooker's manual for specific guidelines.
Using a pressure cooker can save time and still produce tender and delicious ribs. It's a convenient method, especially when you're short on time but still want to enjoy tasty ribs.