Tender Instant Pot Pork Riblets Recipe

Pork Riblets Recipe in the Instant Pot That’s Tender and Quick

Mouthwatering pork riblets elevate home cooking from mundane to magnificent with their irresistible charm.

These petite powerhouses of protein deliver a flavor explosion that dances across your palate.

Compact yet incredibly tender, riblets offer a convenient twist on classic barbecue fare.

The magic happens inside an Instant Pot, where culinary alchemy transforms tough cuts into sublime delicacies.

Versatile marinades can swing from honey-kissed sweetness to fiery heat, catering to every taste bud’s wildest dreams.

Each succulent bite promises a symphonic blend of textures and tastes that will leave dinner companions spellbound.

Get ready to become the kitchen hero who turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable feast.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Pork Riblets

For Spice Blend:
  • Paprika: Choose vibrant, fresh-ground paprika for a rich, smoky essence that enhances meat flavor.
  • Garlic Powder: Select fine, pure garlic powder without clumps for even seasoning distribution.
  • Onion Powder: Look for premium, aromatic onion powder to add depth to the spice mix.
  • Salt: Opt for fine sea salt to ensure uniform seasoning and balanced taste.
  • Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper brings maximum flavor and aromatic intensity.
For Meat Base:
  • Pork Riblets: Select well-marbled, fresh riblets with consistent meat thickness for even cooking.
For Cooking Liquids and Fats:
  • Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for authentic flavor and smooth searing.
  • Chicken Broth: Pick low-sodium, high-quality broth to control salt levels and enhance meat tenderness.

Tools Needed for Pork Riblets in an Instant Pot

  • Instant Pot: Your all-in-one electric pressure cooker for quick and delicious meals.
  • Small bowl: Perfect for mixing spices and creating your flavor blend.
  • Measuring spoons: Essential for precise seasoning and consistent taste.
  • Tongs: Great for safely turning and handling hot riblets during searing.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: Helpful for stirring and moving ingredients in the Instant Pot.
  • Cutting board: Provides a clean surface for preparing ingredients.
  • Sharp knife: Useful for trimming riblets if needed before cooking.

Cooking Instant Pot Pork Riblets – The Steps

Cooking Instant Pot Pork Riblets – The Steps
  • Create Flavor Explosion

Whip up a zesty spice blend by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This magical mixture will transform your pork riblets into a taste sensation.

  • Prep and Sizzle

Generously massage the spice blend all over the riblets, then fire up your Instant Pot with a splash of olive oil. Let the pot heat up and get ready for some serious searing action. Carefully place the seasoned meat into the hot pot, creating a gorgeous golden-brown crust that’ll make your mouth water.

  • Lock and Load Pressure

Pour in some chicken broth, secure the lid, and set your Instant Pot to high pressure. This is where the magic happens – 20 minutes of cooking will turn those riblets into melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

  • Rest and Feast

After the cooking cycle, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for a short while. Gently remove the riblets, give them a quick rest, and then dive into your incredibly tender, flavor-packed meal. Get ready for a taste explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Pork Riblets Recipe – Flavor Adjustments

Pork Riblets Recipe – Flavor Adjustments

Experiment with different herbs and spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or dried thyme to create a unique flavor profile that matches your taste preferences.

Take time to sear riblets evenly, creating a delicious caramelized exterior that locks in moisture and intensifies the meat’s natural flavors.

Replace chicken broth with beer, apple juice, or white wine to add unexpected depth and complexity to your riblets’ overall taste and tenderness.

Brush riblets with your favorite barbecue sauce, sprinkle fresh chopped herbs, or drizzle honey for a gourmet-style presentation that transforms the simple dish into a restaurant-quality meal.

Serving Pork Riblets Made in Instant Pot

Serving Pork Riblets Made in Instant Pot
  • Savor with Coleslaw: Create a cool, crisp side of shredded cabbage and carrots to balance the rich, spicy riblets.
  • Pair with Cornbread: Serve warm, buttery cornbread alongside the riblets to soak up the delicious cooking juices.
  • Add Fresh Greens: Toss a light mixed salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the meat's robust flavor.
  • Drizzle with BBQ Sauce: Enhance the riblets by adding a homemade or store-bought barbecue sauce for extra zesty notes.

Storing Leftover Pork Riblets the Right Way

  • Maximize Freshness: Store cooked riblets in airtight containers within 2 hours of preparation to maintain quality and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Refrigerate Strategically: Keep leftover riblets in sealed containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring maximum flavor retention and food safety.
  • Freeze for Later: Wrap individual portions tightly in freezer-safe bags or containers, which can preserve the riblets for 2-3 months without losing taste or texture.
  • Reheat with Care: Warm refrigerated riblets in the microwave or oven at 350°F, adding a splash of broth to prevent dryness and restore their original juicy tenderness.

Quick Recipe Overview

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories: 350 kcal

Servings: 4

Print
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Tender Instant Pot Pork Riblets Recipe

Tender Instant Pot Pork Riblets Recipe


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4.7 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Korean-style instant pot pork riblets combine sweet and spicy flavors for an unforgettable meal. Tender meat falls off the bone, delivering a delicious experience that will impress guests and satisfy hungry diners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs (907 g) pork riblets
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Spice Preparation: Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a robust seasoning blend for the pork riblets.
  2. Seasoning Application: Thoroughly massage the spice mixture into each riblet, ensuring comprehensive and even coating for maximum flavor penetration.
  3. Searing Setup: Activate the Instant Pot’s sauté function and introduce olive oil, creating a high-temperature cooking surface for initial meat caramelization.
  4. Meat Browning: Strategically place riblets in the hot pot, searing each side to develop a rich, golden crust that intensifies the meat’s natural flavors and creates a beautiful exterior.
  5. Liquid Foundation: Gently pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot, establishing a flavorful braising liquid that will tenderize and enhance the meat during pressure cooking.
  6. Pressure Cooking Preparation: Secure the lid, positioning the valve to sealing, and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for an intense cooking environment.
  7. Cooking Cycle: Program the device for 20 minutes of high-pressure cooking, allowing the riblets to become incredibly tender while absorbing the surrounding aromatics and spices.
  8. Pressure Release: After cooking, permit a natural pressure release for 10-12 minutes, which helps retain moisture and allows the meat to continue softening gently.
  9. Serving Preparation: Carefully extract the riblets, letting them rest briefly to redistribute internal juices, ensuring a succulent and perfectly cooked final dish.

Notes

  • Spice Blend Mastery: Mix spices thoroughly to ensure each riblet gets an even, flavor-packed coating for maximum taste sensation.
  • Searing Secrets: Golden-brown crust develops critical flavor complexity, so don’t rush the initial searing process and aim for consistent browning on all sides.
  • Liquid Precision: Chicken broth creates moisture and helps prevent burning, but measure carefully to maintain perfect cooking environment.
  • Pressure Release Technique: Natural pressure release prevents meat from becoming tough, allowing riblets to remain incredibly juicy and tender during the resting phase.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing, Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Sophia Rivera

Sophia Rivera

Recipe Developer & Kitchen Tips Specialist

Expertise

  • Baking and Pastry Arts
  • Seasonal and Local Ingredient Utilization
  • Dessert Menu Planning
  • Culinary Event Coordination

Education

Austin Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts
  • Focus: Techniques in baking, pastry creation, and dessert presentation.

San Antonio Culinary Institute

  • Program: Diploma in Farm-to-Table Culinary Practices
  • Focus: Emphasis on utilizing locally sourced ingredients and understanding seasonal flavors.

Sophia’s passion for baking began in her family kitchen, where she spent hours experimenting with new recipes. With a background in baking and pastry arts, she loves making desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. 

Sophia is all about using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to create treats that everyone will enjoy. When she’s not creating mouth-watering desserts, you can find her gardening, making new recipes, or enjoying a relaxing afternoon with her family.

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