Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

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Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

  1. Remove the Membrane:
    • Turn the ribs over so the bone side is facing up. Using a sharp knife, slide it under the thin membrane and peel it off. Removing the membrane ensures the ribs are more tender and allows the seasoning to penetrate better.
  2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
  3. Season the Ribs:
    • In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
    • Rub the ribs with olive oil and then apply the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides.

Step 2: Cook the Ribs

  1. Cut the Ribs:
    • Cut the rack of ribs into smaller sections to fit into your air fryer basket. Typically, 2-3 ribs per section work well.
  2. Wrap the Ribs:
    • Wrap each section of ribs in aluminum foil. This helps keep the ribs moist during the initial cooking phase.
  3. Air Fry the Ribs:
    • Place the wrapped ribs in the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.

Step 3: Glaze and Finish

  1. Apply BBQ Sauce:
    • After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and brush the ribs generously with BBQ sauce on both sides.
  2. Caramelize the Sauce:
    • Return the ribs to the air fryer basket without the foil. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through and applying more BBQ sauce as needed. The ribs should be tender, and the BBQ sauce should be caramelized and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Check for Doneness:
    • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs. They should be at least 145°F (63°C), but for the best texture, aim for 190°F (88°C) for fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
  2. Serve:
    • Transfer the ribs to a serving platter. Let them rest for a few minutes before cutting into individual ribs.
    • Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side and your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

  • Even Cooking: Make sure the ribs are cut into manageable sections to fit your air fryer basket without overlapping.
  • Sauce Application: Apply the BBQ sauce in layers to build up a nice, sticky glaze.
  • Foil Wrapping: Wrapping the ribs in foil initially helps to steam them, keeping them moist and tender.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 480
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs are a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs without the need for a grill or smoker. The air fryer ensures that the ribs are cooked to perfection with a caramelized BBQ glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve these ribs at your next family dinner or barbecue and watch them disappear!

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and BBQ sauces to customize this recipe to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this air fryer ribs recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!

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