[Full Guide] How Long To Cook Short Ribs In Instant Pot?

Short ribs are a flavorful and succulent cut of meat that can be cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot. This versatile kitchen appliance streamlines the cooking process, resulting in tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional cooking methods. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about selecting, preparing, and cooking short ribs in an Instant Pot, including troubleshooting common issues to ensure a successful culinary experience.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Short Ribs In Instant Pot

Cooking short ribs in an Instant Pot typically takes around 35 to 45 minutes under high pressure. However, the total cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the meat and your desired level of tenderness. Additionally, you should account for the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure, usually around 10 to 15 minutes.

Selection

Selecting the right cut of short ribs is crucial for a successful Instant Pot cooking experience. When choosing short ribs, opt for pieces with a rich marbling of fat, as this will contribute to the tenderness and flavor of the meat. Additionally, consider the thickness of the ribs, as thicker pieces may require longer cooking times to achieve the desired level of doneness.

You can choose between bone-in or boneless short ribs based on your preference. Bone-in short ribs often impart additional flavor to the dish, while boneless ones may be more convenient for some recipes.

Preparation

Before cooking short ribs in the Instant Pot, it’s essential to properly prepare the meat to enhance its flavor and texture. Start by seasoning the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. You can also add additional herbs and spices to complement the flavor profile of your dish. For an extra depth of flavor, consider marinating the short ribs for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

If there is excessive fat on the short ribs, consider trimming it to prevent the sauce from becoming overly greasy during the cooking process. However, it’s important to leave a reasonable amount of fat to contribute to the overall richness of the dish.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Short Ribs

The cooking time for short ribs in an Instant Pot can vary based on the specific recipe and desired level of tenderness. As a general guideline, consider the following cooking times under high pressure:

• For Thinly Cut Short Ribs: 25-30 minutes
• For Average Thickness Short Ribs: 35-40 minutes
• For Thick-Cut Short Ribs: 45-50 minutes

It’s important to note that these times are for high pressure cooking. Additionally, allow around 10 to 15 minutes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure before the actual cooking time begins.

How To Cook Short Ribs In Instant Pot

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds of short ribs
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of beef broth or stock
• 1/2 cup of red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves)
• 2 tablespoons of flour (for thickening the sauce, if desired)

Instructions

1. Season the Short Ribs: Generously season the short ribs with salt and pepper.

2. Sear the Short Ribs: Set the Instant Pot to "Saute" mode and add a small amount of olive oil. Once the pot is hot, carefully sear the short ribs on all sides until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.

3. Add Aromatics: After searing the short ribs, remove them from the Instant Pot and set them aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until they become fragrant and slightly caramelized.

4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), using a wooden spoon to scrape off any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This process, known as deglazing, helps infuse the sauce with rich flavors.

5. Return the Short Ribs: Place the seared short ribs back into the Instant Pot, along with any accumulated juices.

6. Add Additional Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste and add fresh herbs to the pot. You can also include other flavor-enhancing ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, or Dijon mustard.

7. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure. Cook the short ribs for the appropriate amount of time based on their thickness and your desired level of tenderness.

8. Natural Release or Quick Release: Once the cooking time is complete, you can perform a natural release by allowing the pressure to subside on its own, or use a quick release method to expedite the process.

9. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can create a slurry by mixing flour with water and adding it to the pot. Bring the sauce to a simmer using the "Saute" function until it reaches your desired consistency.

10. Serve and Enjoy: Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, remove the short ribs from the Instant Pot and serve them alongside your choice of sides. The rich, tender meat and flavorful sauce will surely impress your guests or family.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Despite the convenience of cooking short ribs in an Instant Pot, you may encounter certain issues along the way. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Tough Or Chewy Texture

If your short ribs turn out tough or chewy, it likely means they haven’t cooked long enough to break down the collagen and connective tissue. To remedy this, simply return the ribs to the Instant Pot and cook them for an additional 5-10 minutes under high pressure.

Insufficient Flavor

If you find that your dish lacks depth of flavor, consider increasing the seasoning, using a richer beef broth, or incorporating additional aromatics and herbs during the cooking process. You can also experiment with different spices to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Excess Fat In The Sauce

In some cases, the sauce may end up overly greasy due to excessive fat from the short ribs. To resolve this, you can use a fat separator to skim off the excess fat from the sauce before serving. Alternatively, refrigerate the sauce and remove the solidified fat from the top before reheating and serving.

Sauce Too Thin

If the sauce is thinner than desired, you can thicken it by making a slurry with cornstarch or flour and adding it to the pot. Using the "Saute" function, simmer the mixture until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.

Overcooking

In the event of overcooking, the short ribs may become mushy or lose their texture. To prevent this, carefully monitor the cooking time and adjust it based on the thickness of the ribs. If they are overcooked, consider reducing the cooking time slightly in subsequent attempts.

Cooking short ribs in an Instant Pot offers an efficient and convenient way to achieve tender, flavorful results. By carefully selecting and preparing the short ribs, adhering to appropriate cooking times, and troubleshooting any potential issues, you can create a spectacular dish that delights your family and guests. Experiment with different seasonings, aromatics, and cooking liquids to personalize your short rib recipe and unlock a world of rich, savory flavors. With the guidance provided in this comprehensive guide, you are well-equipped to embark on a culinary journey that elevates the humble short rib to new heights of gastronomic delight.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Short Ribs

Short ribs are a delicious and tender cut of beef, known for their rich flavor and succulent texture. While traditionally cooked low and slow in the oven or on the stovetop, the Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook short ribs. With its pressure cooking capabilities, the Instant Pot allows you to achieve fall-off-the-bone tender short ribs in a fraction of the time.

One of the great advantages of the Instant Pot is its ability to cook frozen meat without the need for thawing. When cooking frozen short ribs in the Instant Pot, it’s important to adjust the cook time accordingly. Since the Instant Pot takes longer to come to pressure with frozen meat, you will need to increase the cook time by 50%.

For example, if a recipe calls for cooking fresh short ribs for 45 minutes, you would need to adjust the cook time to 1 hour and 15 minutes for frozen short ribs. This extended cook time ensures that the ribs are cooked thoroughly and reach the desired tenderness.

Achieving Perfect Texture

To achieve the perfect texture when cooking short ribs in the Instant Pot, it’s essential to use the correct cooking method. The pressure cooking function of the Instant Pot works wonders for breaking down the tough connective tissues in the short ribs, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking short ribs in the Instant Pot:

1. Start by browning the short ribs on the sauté function of the Instant Pot. This step adds flavor and helps seal in the juices.
2. Remove the browned short ribs from the pot and set them aside. Deglaze the pot with a liquid of your choice, such as beef broth or red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
3. Add the short ribs back into the pot, along with any additional ingredients like onions, garlic, and spices.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure. The cook time will vary depending on the recipe and the desired level of tenderness. Generally, you can cook short ribs for 45 minutes to 1 hour on high pressure.
5. Once the cook time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for at least 10 minutes before using the quick release valve to release any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the short ribs from the Instant Pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more flavorful meat.

By following these steps, you can achieve perfectly tender and succulent short ribs that will impress your family and friends.

Flavor Infusion

The Instant Pot is not only great for achieving tender short ribs, but it also excels in infusing flavors into the meat. As the pressure builds up inside the pot, the food is cooked in a sealed environment, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat more effectively.

Here are a few ways to infuse flavor into your short ribs using the Instant Pot:

1. Use a flavorful cooking liquid: The liquid you choose to cook your short ribs in can greatly enhance the overall flavor. Beef broth, red wine, or a mixture of both can add richness and depth to the dish.
2. Add aromatics and spices: Onions, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and other herbs and spices can be added to the cooking liquid to infuse the short ribs with additional flavors. Consider experimenting with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.
3. Marinate the short ribs: Before cooking, you can marinate the short ribs in a flavorful marinade or rub. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat even further and adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
4. Finish with a flavorful sauce: After cooking the short ribs, you can strain the cooking liquid and reduce it into a thick and flavorful sauce. This sauce can be drizzled over the ribs before serving, adding a burst of flavor.

By utilizing these flavor infusion techniques, you can take your Instant Pot short ribs to the next level.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Short Ribs

While the pressure cooking method is the most common way to cook short ribs in the Instant Pot, there are a few alternative methods that can yield equally delicious results.

1. Slow Cooker Function: If you prefer the traditional slow-cooked texture of short ribs, you can use the slow cooker function on your Instant Pot. Simply follow the same steps for browning the ribs and deglazing the pot, then set the Instant Pot to the slow cooker function and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. This method will result in fall-off-the-bone tender short ribs with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

2. Sauté and Deglaze: Another alternative method is to only use the sauté function and the deglaze option on your Instant Pot. By browning the short ribs on the sauté mode and deglazing the pot with a flavorful liquid, you can achieve a beautifully caramelized exterior with a rich and flavorful sauce. After deglazing, switch off the Instant Pot and finish cooking the short ribs using another cooking method, such as braising them in the oven or simmering them on the stovetop.

These alternative cooking methods provide flexibility and allow you to tailor the cooking process to your preferences.

Instant Pot Tips For Short Ribs

To ensure success when cooking short ribs in the Instant Pot, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Trim excess fat: While short ribs benefit from the marbling and fat content for flavor and tenderness, it’s recommended to trim any excess fat before cooking. This prevents the finished dish from being overly greasy.
2. Brown the short ribs: Browning the short ribs before pressure cooking adds a layer of flavor and richness. Take the extra few minutes to sear the short ribs on all sides until they develop a deep brown crust.
3. Be mindful of liquid amounts: Unlike traditional cooking methods, the Instant Pot requires less liquid due to the sealed environment. Use around 1 to 1.5 cups of liquid for a typical recipe, as excessive liquid may dilute the flavors.
4. Natural versus quick pressure release: Natural pressure release allows the pressure to release gradually, resulting in more tender meat. However, if you’re short on time, you can use the quick release valve to release the pressure immediately.
5. Strain and reduce cooking liquid: If you prefer a thicker and more concentrated sauce, strain the cooking liquid after pressure cooking and reduce it on the sauté function until desired consistency is reached.
6. Rest before serving: Allowing the cooked short ribs to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain the juices and makes the meat more tender and flavorful.

Following these tips will help you master cooking short ribs in the Instant Pot and achieve consistently delicious results.

Creative Instant Pot Short Ribs Recipes And Variations

Now that you have a good understanding of the cooking process and techniques for short ribs in the Instant Pot, let’s delve into some creative recipes and variations to inspire your culinary adventures:

1. Korean-Inspired Sticky Short Ribs: Marinate the short ribs in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and brown sugar. Cook in the Instant Pot with beef broth, mirin, and gochujang sauce for a sweet and savory flavor experience. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
2. Red Wine Braised Short Ribs: Brown the short ribs and deglaze the pot with red wine. Add in onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and beef broth, then pressure cook until tender. Serve with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a rich and comforting meal.
3. BBQ Glazed Short Ribs: After pressure cooking the short ribs until tender, brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce and finish under the broiler or on a grill for a sticky and caramelized exterior. Serve with coleslaw and cornbread for a classic BBQ feast.

Feel free to experiment with different flavors, marinades, and cooking techniques to create your own unique and delicious Instant Pot short rib recipes.

Conclusion

Cooking short ribs in the Instant Pot allows you to enjoy tender and flavorful meat in a fraction of the time. By following the proper cooking methods and techniques, you can achieve fall-off-the-bone tender short ribs with rich flavors infused throughout. Whether you prefer the traditional pressure cooking method, the slow cooker function, or a sauté and deglaze approach, the Instant Pot provides versatility and convenience. Remember to trim excess fat, brown the short ribs for added flavor, and experiment with different marinades and sauces to create your perfect Instant Pot short rib recipe. So fire up your Instant Pot and get ready to enjoy mouthwatering short ribs that will undoubtedly become a family favorite.

FAQS

How Long Does It Take To Cook Short Ribs In An Instant Pot?

The cooking time for short ribs in an instant pot varies depending on the size and thickness of the ribs, but typically takes around 30 minutes on high pressure mode.

Can I Cook Frozen Short Ribs In An Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook frozen short ribs in an instant pot. However, the cooking time may need to be extended by 5-10 minutes to ensure the ribs are fully cooked.

Do I Need To Pre-sear The Short Ribs Before Cooking In An Instant Pot?

While pre-searing the meat can add extra flavor, it is not necessary for cooking short ribs in an instant pot. The high pressure and steam in the pot will still create a tender and flavorful result.

What Liquid Should I Use When Cooking Short Ribs In An Instant Pot?

A flavorful liquid such as beef broth or red wine can be used when cooking short ribs in an instant pot. You can also add in herbs, spices, and vegetables to enhance the flavor of the dish.

How Do I Release The Pressure On My Instant Pot After Cooking Short Ribs?

There are two methods for releasing pressure on an instant pot: quick release and natural release. For short ribs, it is recommended to use natural release which means letting the pressure drop on its own. This can take about 10-15 minutes.