(GUIDE) How To Cook Short Ribs In Pressure Cooker?

Short ribs are a popular and flavorful cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One method that yields tender and succulent results is cooking short ribs in a pressure cooker. The pressure cooker helps to break down the tough connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a flavorful and fall-off-the-bone texture. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking short ribs in a pressure cooker, including preparation, cook times, techniques, and troubleshooting tips.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Short Ribs In Pressure Cooker

The cook time for short ribs in a pressure cooker will vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs, as well as your desired level of tenderness. Generally, you can expect to cook short ribs in a pressure cooker for 40 minutes to 1 hour. However, keep in mind that this is the cooking time under pressure, and you should also account for the time it takes for the pressure cooker to reach and release pressure.

Preparation

Before you begin cooking short ribs in a pressure cooker, there are a few important steps to ensure the best results:

1. Selecting the Short Ribs: Short ribs come in two different cuts – English cut and flanken cut. English cut ribs are cut between the bones, while flanken cut ribs are cut across the bones. Both cuts are suitable for pressure cooking, but the English cut tends to work better due to its size and shape.

2. Trimming the Ribs: It is essential to trim excess fat from the short ribs before cooking. While some fat is necessary for flavor and tenderness, too much fat can make the dish overly greasy. Trim the visible fat, but leave a thin layer to enhance the flavor.

3. Seasoning the Ribs: To enhance the flavor of the short ribs, season them with your choice of dry rub or marinade. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. Allow the ribs to marinate for at least 30 minutes to overnight in the refrigerator to infuse the flavors.

Pressure Cooker Basics For Short Ribs

Before diving into the cooking process, it is important to understand some key pressure cooker basics for short ribs:

1. Pressure Release Methods: There are two primary pressure release methods – natural release and quick release. Natural release involves allowing the pressure to release on its own, which can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes. Quick release, on the other hand, involves manually releasing the pressure using the pressure release valve. The method you choose will depend on the recipe you are following and the desired level of tenderness.

2. Liquid Requirements: Pressure cooking requires sufficient liquid to generate steam and create the necessary pressure. For short ribs, it is recommended to add around 1 to 2 cups of liquid, such as beef broth or red wine, to the pressure cooker. This liquid will infuse the ribs with flavor and prevent them from drying out.

3. Liquid Thickening: After pressure cooking the short ribs, you might want to thicken the cooking liquid to create a rich and flavorful sauce. To achieve this, you can use techniques like reducing the liquid on the stovetop or creating a slurry with cornstarch or flour and adding it to the liquid.

Cook Times For Short Ribs In Pressure Cooker

The cooking time for short ribs in a pressure cooker can vary depending on factors such as thickness, bone-in or boneless, and personal preference for tenderness. Here is a general guideline for cooking times:

1. Bone-In Short Ribs: For bone-in short ribs, you will need to pressure cook them for approximately 40 to 50 minutes. This cooking time will result in meat that is tender with a slight chew. If you prefer a more fall-off-the-bone texture, extend the cooking time to 60 minutes.

2. Boneless Short Ribs: Boneless short ribs can be cooked for a shorter amount of time compared to bone-in ribs. Pressure cook boneless short ribs for around 30 to 40 minutes for tender and flavorful meat.

It is important to note that these cooking times are approximate and may vary depending on your pressure cooker, altitude, and personal preference. It is always recommended to consult the manual for your specific pressure cooker model for more accurate cooking times.

How To Cook Short Ribs In Pressure Cooker

Now that you are familiar with the basics, follow these steps to cook short ribs in a pressure cooker:

1. Preheat the Pressure Cooker: Turn on your pressure cooker and select the sauté function if available. If not, proceed to the next step.

2. Sear the Ribs: Add a small amount of oil to the pressure cooker and heat it. Place the seasoned short ribs in the pressure cooker in a single layer and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a brown crust. Searing the meat helps to enhance the flavor and appearance of the dish.

3. Add Liquid: Once the short ribs are seared, pour in the liquid of your choice, such as beef broth or red wine. The liquid should cover the bottom of the pressure cooker, but not completely submerge the ribs.

4. Secure the Lid: Place the lid on the pressure cooker and ensure it is locked in place. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for securing the lid correctly.

5. Cooking Under Pressure: Set the pressure cooker to the appropriate setting for short ribs, usually high pressure. Set the cooking time according to the guidelines mentioned earlier.

6. Pressure Release: After the cooking time is complete, release the pressure using your chosen method – natural release or quick release.

7. Check for Tenderness: To check the tenderness of the short ribs, use a fork to see if the meat easily falls off the bone. If necessary, you can return the pressure cooker to high pressure for an additional few minutes.

8. Thicken the Cooking Liquid: If desired, remove the cooked short ribs from the pressure cooker and set them aside. To thicken the cooking liquid into a sauce, either reduce it on the stovetop or create a slurry with cornstarch or flour and add it to the liquid while stirring continuously until desired consistency is achieved.

9. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the short ribs and spoon the thickened sauce over them. You can garnish with fresh herbs for added visual appeal. Serve alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or creamy polenta.

Optimal Pressure Cooking Techniques For Short Ribs

To achieve the best results when cooking short ribs in a pressure cooker, consider the following techniques:

1. Searing Before Pressure Cooking: Searing the short ribs before pressure cooking helps to develop a rich crust and enhance the overall flavor of the dish. This step is optional but highly recommended for best results.

2. Resting Time: After the short ribs are cooked and removed from the pressure cooker, it is advisable to let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the meat to reabsorb the juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful end result.

3. Browning After Cooking: If you prefer a more caramelized appearance on the short ribs, you can place them under the broiler for a few minutes after pressure cooking. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of visual appeal.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any difficulties or issues when cooking short ribs in a pressure cooker, here are some troubleshooting tips:

1. Tough Meat: If the short ribs are tough after pressure cooking, it could be due to undercooking. Return the pressure cooker to high pressure for an additional few minutes to ensure tenderness.

2. Insufficient Flavor: If the short ribs lack flavor, it may be because they were not properly seasoned or marinated. Consider increasing the seasoning amounts or marinating the ribs for a longer period before cooking.

3. Burnt Bottom: If you experience burning on the bottom of the pressure cooker during the searing step, reduce the heat slightly and ensure that the short ribs are not overcrowded in the pot.

4. Excess Fat: If there is excessive fat in the cooking liquid, you can either skim it off the top or use a fat separator to remove it before thickening the sauce.

Variations And Flavoring Options

While the basic method of cooking short ribs in a pressure cooker remains the same, there are countless variations and flavoring options you can explore to personalize your dish:

1. Flavorful Additions: Enhance the flavor of the short ribs by adding additional ingredients to the pressure cooker, such as diced onions, minced garlic, or chopped vegetables like carrots and celery. These aromatic additions not only infuse more flavor into the meat but also contribute to the depth of the cooking liquid.

2. Sauce Variations: Instead of reducing the cooking liquid into a basic sauce, you can experiment with different flavor profiles. Consider adding ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or even fruit preserves to create a unique and delicious sauce.

3. Asian-inspired Short Ribs: For an Asian twist, marinate the short ribs in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil before pressure cooking. Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

4. Barbecue Short Ribs: If you prefer a smoky and tangy flavor, use a barbecue sauce as the base liquid in the pressure cooker. The pressure cooking process will infuse the ribs with the barbecue flavors, resulting in a delicious and tender dish.

5. Spicy Short Ribs: For those who enjoy a kick of heat, add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the seasoning rub. The pressure cooker will help to mellow out the spice, giving you a well-balanced level of heat.

In conclusion, cooking short ribs in a pressure cooker is an excellent way to achieve tender and flavorful results in a shorter amount of time. By following the steps outlined in this article, you will be able to create mouthwatering short ribs with minimal effort. Experiment with different flavors and techniques to make each batch of short ribs unique and delicious.

FAQS

How Long Should I Cook Short Ribs In A Pressure Cooker?

The cooking time for short ribs in a pressure cooker usually ranges from 25-35 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat and your desired tenderness.

Do I Need To Sear The Short Ribs Before Pressure Cooking?

It is recommended to sear the short ribs in a hot pan or on the stovetop before pressure cooking. This helps to develop flavor and creates a caramelized crust on the meat.

Can I Add Vegetables Or Other Ingredients To The Pressure Cooker With The Short Ribs?

Yes, you can add vegetables, herbs, and other ingredients to the pressure cooker with the short ribs. However, it is important to not overfill the cooker and to make sure there is enough liquid for proper pressure cooking.

Should I Use Natural Or Quick Release When Cooking Short Ribs In A Pressure Cooker?

It is best to use the natural release method for short ribs in a pressure cooker. This allows the pressure to release slowly and helps to prevent the meat from becoming tough.

Can I Cook Frozen Short Ribs In A Pressure Cooker?

It is not recommended to cook frozen short ribs in a pressure cooker as it can result in uneven cooking and potentially unsafe food. It is best to thaw the short ribs completely before pressure cooking.