Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds (900g) baby back ribs or spare ribs, membrane removed
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth or apple juice
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke, optional
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) BBQ sauce

Instructions:

  1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Cut the ribs into sections of 3-4 ribs each.
  2. In a small bowl, combine all dry rub ingredients.
  3. Spread yellow mustard on both sides of the ribs. Generously apply the dry rub, pressing it into the meat. Optional: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
  4. Heat olive oil in the pressure cooker pot using the sauté function. Sear the ribs on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. This adds flavour. Remove the ribs and set aside.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  6. Place a trivet inside the pot. Arrange the ribs on the trivet, stacking them if necessary. Pour liquid smoke over the ribs.
  7. Secure the lid and set the pressure cooker to cook on HIGH pressure for 25 minutes for baby back ribs, or 30 minutes for spare ribs.
  8. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release of any remaining pressure.
  9. Carefully remove the ribs from the pressure cooker and place them on a baking sheet lined with foil (for easy cleanup). Brush generously with BBQ sauce.
  10. Broil the ribs in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or grill them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized. Watch closely to prevent burning!
  11. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving. Cut between the ribs and serve with extra BBQ sauce.