Pork Spare Ribs Air Fryer Recipe: The Ultimate Guide

If you are a fan of pork ribs, then you know just how delicious they can be. However, cooking them the traditional way can be quite time-consuming and requires a lot of attention. Fortunately, using an air fryer can solve these challenges and give you the most delicious and juicy pork ribs you’ve ever tasted. In this article, we will guide you on how to cook pork spare ribs in an air fryer to perfection.

Food Science Behind Air Frying

Air frying is a unique method of cooking that involves circulating hot air around the food in the cooking basket. The hot air then cooks the food to create a crispy texture on the outside while leaving the inside juicy and tender. Unlike traditional frying, air frying uses little to no oil, making the food healthier and more nutritious.

When cooking pork spare ribs in an air fryer, the hot air cooks the meat to produce a crispy outer layer while retaining its natural juices and flavors. The end result is incredibly delicious pork ribs that are healthier than their fried counterparts.

Selecting the Best Pork Spare Ribs

When selecting the best pork spare ribs, there are a few things to consider:

Cut

Pork spare ribs come in different cuts. The most commonly used cut is the St. Louis Style cut, which is trimmed to remove the cartilage and rib tips. This cut is perfect for air frying since it cooks evenly and produces a great texture.

Size

The size of your pork ribs will determine how long it takes to cook them. Smaller ribs will cook faster than larger ones. Ideally, you should select ribs that are about 2-3 inches wide and 5-6 inches long.

Quality

When choosing pork ribs, you should go for high-quality meat that is fresh and well-marbled. Meat with good marbling will be juicier and more flavorful.

Cleaning the Pork Spare Ribs

Before cooking your pork spare ribs, you should ensure that they are clean. Rinse them thoroughly in cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. If necessary, trim any excess fat or cartilage from the ribs.

Preparing the Pork Spare Ribs for Air Frying

Once you have cleaned your pork ribs, it’s time to prepare them for air frying. Here’s how:

Seasoning

The first step in preparing your pork ribs is to season them. You can use your favorite dry rub or marinade to add flavor to the meat. Rub the seasoning generously on both sides of the meat, making sure to cover every part.

Letting the Meat Rest

After seasoning the pork ribs, let them rest for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, creating a more intense flavor.

Preheating the Air Fryer

While the meat is resting, preheat your air fryer to 350°F. This will ensure that the air fryer is ready to cook your pork ribs when they are ready.

Adding the Pork Spare Ribs to the Air Fryer

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned pork ribs in the air fryer basket. If necessary, cut the ribs into smaller pieces to fit in the basket. Be sure to leave some space between the ribs to allow the hot air to circulate freely around them.

Tips for Cooking Pork Spare Ribs in an Air Fryer

Cooking pork spare ribs in an air fryer requires some finesse to achieve the perfect result. Here are some tips to make the process easier:

Use a rack

Using a rack allows the hot air to circulate around the pork ribs more easily, resulting in a more evenly cooked meal.

Flip the Ribs

To ensure that both sides of the pork ribs cook evenly, flip them halfway through the cooking process.

Use Meat Thermometer

Using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat is crucial to ensure that it is cooked thoroughly. The internal temperature of pork should reach 145°F to be safe for consumption.

Let the Meat Rest

Once the meat has reached the desired temperature, let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute evenly, resulting in a more tender and juicy meat.

Recipe for Pork Spare Ribs in an Air Fryer

Now that you know everything you need to cook pork spare ribs in an air fryer, here’s a simple recipe to help you get started:

Ingredients

• 2.5 lbs pork spare ribs
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
2. Rub the seasoning mix onto both sides of the pork ribs, ensuring even coverage.
3. Let the meat rest for 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
5. Place the seasoned pork ribs in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between them.
6. Cook the pork ribs for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process.
7. Check the internal temperature of the meat using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
8. Once the meat has reached the desired temperature, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
9. Brush the pork ribs with BBQ sauce before serving.

Variations on Pork Spare Ribs

While the above recipe is perfect for most people, you can always make some adjustments to suit your taste.

Spicy Pork Spare Ribs

For those who prefer a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You can also add some hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for an extra spicy flavor.

Sweet Pork Spare Ribs

To make your pork ribs sweeter, add some brown sugar to the seasoning mix. You can also use a sweet BBQ sauce.

Conclusion

Cooking pork spare ribs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious meal without all the fuss of traditional cooking methods. By following the tips and recipe outlined in this guide, you can make some of the tastiest and juiciest pork spare ribs you’ve ever tasted. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?

Sources

Air Fryer Spare Ribs – Recipes That Crock!

Air Fryer Pork Ribs (with a Sweet Glaze) – Where Is My Spoon

Checking for Doneness | Ribs | Weber BBQ

FAQS On Pork Spare Ribs Air Fryer Recipe

What Are Pork Spare Ribs?

Pork spare ribs are a cut of meat that comes from the lower portion of the pig’s rib cage. They are typically sold in long, narrow strips with bones and connective tissue still intact.

How Can I Prepare Pork Spare Ribs In An Air Fryer?

To prepare pork spare ribs in an air fryer, first season the ribs with your desired spices and sauces. Then, place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 380°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I Marinate Pork Spare Ribs Before Cooking In An Air Fryer?

Yes, you can marinate pork spare ribs before cooking in an air fryer. Just be sure to pat them dry before placing them in the air fryer to prevent excess moisture.

What Are Some Recommended Seasonings For Pork Spare Ribs In An Air Fryer?

Some popular seasonings for pork spare ribs in an air fryer include barbecue rub, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Pork Spare Ribs In An Air Fryer?

The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the ribs, but on average, it takes about 20-25 minutes at 380°F in an air fryer.

Can I Use A Boneless Pork Spare Ribs For This Air Fryer Recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless pork spare ribs for this air fryer recipe. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster than bone-in ribs.

What Is The Recommended Internal Temperature For Fully Cooked Pork Spare Ribs?

The recommended internal temperature for fully cooked pork spare ribs is 145°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ribs have reached this temperature before serving.