Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce

Alright, buckle up for a taste explosion because these Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce are an absolute game-changer for your taste buds! Imagine tender, succulent ribs that practically slide off the bone with each heavenly bite. But wait, it gets better – we've taken these babies to the next level by smothering them in a luscious, finger-licking good dark cherry BBQ sauce.

The perfect blend of sweet and tangy with a hint of smokiness, it's a match made in flavor heaven. And the best part? Thanks to the Instant Pot magic, you'll have these mouthwatering ribs on your plate in a fraction of the time it takes to slow-cook them. Get ready to impress your family and friends at your next BBQ feast with this lip-smacking goodness!

Gone are the days of spending hours babysitting a grill or smoker.

Gone are the days of spending hours babysitting a grill or smoker. With the trusty Instant Pot by your side, you can achieve fall-off-the-bone perfection without breaking a sweat. Simply season the baby back ribs with your favorite rub, place them in the Instant Pot, and let it work its magic. In no time, the kitchen will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of tender meat and sweet cherries. As you eagerly open the lid, revealing the succulent ribs, your taste buds will be dancing with anticipation. Whether it's a lazy Sunday afternoon with the family or a laid-back get-together with friends, these Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce will have everyone asking for seconds. So, grab your Instant Pot and get ready to experience BBQ bliss like never before – it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have you coming back for more, every single time.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes + time to come to pressure
Serves: 4

Jump to:

• Gone are the days of spending hours babysitting a grill or smoker.
• Ingredients needed to make Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce
• How to make Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce
• Variations on the Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce recipe
• Equipment used in making Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce
• Storage
• Top tips ti know when making Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce
• Related
• Pairing
• Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce

Ingredients needed to make Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce

Dry Rub Ingredients:1 t. garlic powder
1 t. chili powder
1 t. dried rosemary
1 t. ground cumin
½ t. cinnamon
¼ t. cayenne pepper
½ t. smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Other Ingredients

2½ - 3 lbs. baby back ribs
1 c. beef stock (or water)
Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce* (or BBQ sauce of choice)

How to make Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce

1. Combine ingredients for the dry rub in a small bowl and stir to combine. Set aside. 

2. Carefully remove the membrane from the back of the baby back ribs with a sharp knife, if necessary. Cut the ribs into 3 or 4 equal-sized parts and work the dry rub into each section on both sides. Set aside.
   
3. Add beef broth or water to Instant Pot and insert the metal rack. Place the seasoned ribs on their sides on top of the insert. (Do not stack them flat on top of each other).
   
4. Lock the Instant Pot lid into place and flip the pressure valve to “Sealing.” Set the “Manual” setting to high for 30 minutes.
   
5. Meanwhile, line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside.
   
6. Once cooking time is complete, do a quick release (QR) by flipping the sealing valve to the “Venting” position. Unlock and remove the Instant Pot lid and carefully transfer the ribs to the prepared baking sheet. Brush ribs with a generous amount of BBQ sauce on each side.
   
7. Preheat the broiler to high and broil the ribs for 3-5 minutes or until nicely browned. Remove from oven and cool slightly before cutting into individual portions. Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

Variations on the Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce recipe

1. Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a punch of spiciness to the cherry BBQ sauce by mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. Brace yourself for a flavorful explosion!
   
2. Asian Twist: Give your ribs an Asian-inspired flair by replacing the traditional BBQ sauce with a blend of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch.
   
3. Zesty Orange Glaze: Swap out the cherry BBQ sauce for a zesty orange glaze. Combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and a hint of grated orange zest for a tangy and sweet twist.
   
4. Coffee Infusion: Coffee lovers, rejoice! Add a unique depth of flavor by incorporating brewed coffee into your BBQ sauce. The rich, smoky undertones will take your ribs to a whole new level.
   
5. Mango Tango: Embrace the tropical vibes with a mango-infused BBQ sauce. Puree ripe mangoes with lime juice, brown sugar, and a touch of chili powder for a delightful, fruity glaze.
   
6. Honey Mustard Blend: Mix up a mouthwatering honey mustard glaze for your ribs. Combine honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of garlic powder for a sweet and tangy sensation.
   
7. Pineapple Paradise: Bring a taste of the tropics to your plate with a pineapple-based BBQ sauce. Crushed pineapple, brown sugar, and a splash of soy sauce will leave you dreaming of a beach vacation.
   
8. Maple Bourbon Magic: Take your ribs to gourmet territory by creating a maple bourbon glaze. Whisk together maple syrup, a splash of bourbon, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of black pepper for an irresistible flavor.
   
9. Smoky Chipotle Elixir: Infuse your ribs with a smoky and spicy essence by adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to your BBQ glaze. Get ready for a flavor fiesta!
   
10. Lemon Herb Elegance: Elevate your ribs with a refreshing lemon herb marinade. Mix lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and your favorite herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or oregano) for a zesty, herbaceous delight.

With these creative variations, you'll have a fantastic array of flavors to experiment with, turning your Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs into a customizable culinary adventure!

Equipment used in making Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce

Instant Pot

Storage

Once cooked, you can store the Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. It's essential to properly store them to maintain their quality and safety.

Here's a simple guide to ensure safe storage:

1. Cool Down Properly: Allow the cooked ribs to cool down at room temperature for about an hour before refrigerating them. This helps prevent condensation inside the container.
   
2. Divide and Conquer: If you have a large batch of ribs, consider dividing them into smaller portions before storing. This allows for quicker cooling and reheating of individual servings.
   
3. Refrigerate in Airtight Containers: Transfer the ribs and the dark cherry BBQ sauce to separate airtight containers or tightly wrap them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Airtight storage helps prevent cross-contamination and keeps the ribs from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
   
4. Label and Date: Don't forget to label the containers with the contents and the date you cooked them. This helps you keep track of the storage time and ensures you use them before they go bad.
   
5. Reheat Safely: When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the ribs thoroughly until they are piping hot. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

Remember, always use your judgment when it comes to food safety. If the ribs develop an off smell, taste, or unusual texture, discard them, as they may have spoiled. Enjoy your Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs with Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce while they're fresh and delicious!

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