When cooking ribs in an Instant Pot, the amount of liquid you need can vary based on a few factors. Here are some quick guidelines for how much liquid to use when making ribs in an Instant Pot:
1-2 Cups of Liquid For Most Rib Recipes
For most full rack rib recipes, you’ll want to use 1-2 cups of liquid in the Instant Pot. This provides enough moisture to steam the ribs properly and ensure they become fall-off-the-bone tender. Some good liquid options include:
- Broth – chicken, beef or vegetable broth
- Water
- Fruit juice – apple, grape, orange
- Wine or beer
The liquid creates steam and pressure that cooks the ribs. Using too little liquid may lead to burning or undercooked ribs, while too much can make the ribs overly wet.
Consider Rib Type and Quantity
The exact amount of liquid can vary slightly depending on:
- Meat on Ribs: Spare ribs or country-style ribs with more meat may need a bit more liquid.
- Number of Racks:Cooking multiple racks of ribs requires more liquid – add about 1/2 cup extra per additional rack.
- Meat Off Bones: For cuts of ribs with meat removed from the bone like rib tips, less liquid is needed.
Tips for Getting the Liquid Right
- Add aromatics – Garlic, onions, herbs and spices added to the liquid infuse the ribs with flavor.
- Use sauce – BBQ sauce, teriyaki or other sticky sauces help adhere seasoning and provide moisture.
- Broil after – Broil ribs after cooking to reduce wetness and make them tacky.
- Drain and add sauce – Remove ribs from liquid after cooking and coat with sauce.
Sample Liquid Amounts for Common Rib Recipes
| Rib Type | Liquid Amount |
|---|---|
| Baby back ribs (1 rack) | 1 cup broth |
| Spare ribs (1 rack) | 1 1/2 cups broth |
| Country-style ribs | 1 1/4 cups broth |
| Rib tips | 3/4 cup broth |
| Back ribs (3 racks) | 3 cups broth |
Conclusion
Most Instant Pot rib recipes call for 1-2 cups of liquid per rack of ribs. Broth, juice or water work well. Spare and country-style ribs need a bit more liquid than baby backs due to more meat. For best results, use aromatics, finish ribs under the broiler or drain and sauce. With the right amount of liquid, the Instant Pot makes ribs fall-off-the-bone tender.