Tender Air Fryer Ribs: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Tender air fryer ribs are a delicious and simple dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. These tender, juicy ribs combined with flavorful seasonings create an unforgettable meal. Falling off the bone when cooked in the air fryer, they quickly become a family favorite. And because they’re quick and easy to make, you don’t have to wait for the weekend to enjoy them!

Ⅰ.Time Overview

Preparation Time: 10 minutes  

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes  

Total Time: 60-70 minutes

Ⅱ.Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients:

l 2 pounds of baby back ribs

l 1/2 cup hoisin sauce

l 1/2 cup ketchup

l 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce

Equipment:

l Air fryer

l Sharp knife

l Large mixing bowl

l Tongs

l Paper towels

Ⅲ.How to Make Tender Air Fryer Ribs

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

Start by removing the membrane from the back of the rib rack. This step is crucial because the membrane can prevent seasonings from penetrating the meat, and it can become tough and chewy when cooked. Use a sharp knife to loosen the membrane, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off in one piece. Once the membrane is removed, cut the ribs into small sections, typically 2-3 ribs per section.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup hoisin sauce, 1/2 cup ketchup, and 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce. This mixture will create a delicious, sticky glaze that complements the richness of the ribs. Make sure to mix the sauces well until they are fully integrated. Set aside 1/2 cup of the sauce for later use; you’ll need it for basting the ribs during the final cooking stage.

Step 3: Marinate the Ribs

Add the rib sections to the bowl with the sauce and toss them until they are well coated. Make sure every rib is covered with the sauce. This step ensures that the ribs will be flavorful and have a beautiful glaze once cooked.

Step 4: Air Fry the Ribs 

Transfer the ribs to the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping. This allows the hot air to circulate evenly around each rib, ensuring even cooking. Set the air fryer to 325°F and cook the ribs for 40 minutes. About halfway through the cooking time, use tongs to turn the ribs over. This ensures that both sides of the ribs get crispy and caramelized.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

After 40 minutes, check the ribs for tenderness. The ribs should be tender and juicy, with the meat easily pulling away from the bone. If they are not tender enough, continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes. Air fryers can vary in how they cook, so it’s important to check the ribs and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Step 6: Finish with BBQ Sauce

Once the ribs are tender, brush them with the reserved BBQ sauce. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and helps to caramelize the ribs further. Increase the air fryer temperature to 350°F and cook the ribs for an additional 10 minutes. Every 3 minutes, check the ribs and turn them to ensure even caramelization. The ribs should be sticky and glossy when done.

Step 7: Serve

That’s it! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious, sticky ribs that are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Transfer the ribs to a serving plate and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the ribs tender and juicy. Serve them with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad.

Ⅳ.Three Key Tips for Success

1. Remove the Membrane:  

It’s important to remove the thin, tough membrane from the back of the ribs before air frying. This allows the flavors and seasonings to penetrate the meat better and results in tender, juicy ribs. Use a sharp knife to loosen the membrane, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off in one piece.

2. Flip Halfway:  

Turning the ribs during cooking ensures that both sides get crispy and caramelized. It also helps prevent the sauce on one side from burning. Make sure to turn the ribs carefully to avoid tearing the meat from the bone.

3. Apply Reserved BBQ Sauce:

Reserve some sauce to brush on the ribs during the last few minutes of cooking. This helps keep the ribs moist and adds an extra layer of sticky BBQ flavor. Make sure to keep enough sauce for basting and avoid cross-contaminating the sauce used for marinating raw meat.

Ⅴ.Conclusion

Cooking tender air fryer ribs is not only easy but also delivers delicious results every time. The air fryer ensures the ribs are cooked evenly with a perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior. Whether you’re making a quick dinner for your family or preparing a feast for friends, air frying ribs is a method you’ll want to try. The next time you’re craving ribs, give this air fryer recipe a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.