📖 Instructions

1. **Prepare the Ribs:** Start by patting your rack of ribs completely dry with paper towels. You want them as dry as possible for the best rub adhesion. Lay them on a large cutting board, meat-side up. Using a small knife or your fingers, locate the thin membrane on the underside (bone side) of the ribs. This membrane can be tough and chewy, so it's best to remove it. Slip the knife under a corner of the membrane, lift it, and then grasp it firmly with a paper towel (it can be slippery!). Pull the membrane off in one swift motion. If it tears, just grab another piece and continue pulling.
2. **Make the Dry Rub:** In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well until all spices are thoroughly combined. This is your flavor foundation, so make sure it's perfect.
3. **Apply the Rub:** Generously sprinkle the dry rub all over both sides of the ribs. Really get in there! Massage the rub into the meat, ensuring an even coating. Don't be shy; this rub is crucial for that deep BBQ flavor. Once rubbed, you can cook immediately or, for even deeper flavor, wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour, or even overnight.
4. **Prepare the Instant Pot:** Pour the apple cider vinegar and water into the bottom of your Instant Pot. If you're using liquid smoke, now's the time to add it to the liquid. Place the trivet (the metal rack that came with your Instant Pot) inside the pot. This keeps the ribs out of the liquid, allowing them to steam.
5. **Load the Ribs:** Carefully coil the rack of ribs into the Instant Pot, standing it upright on the trivet. Depending on the size of your ribs and pot, you might need to cut the rack in half or into thirds to make it fit. Overlap them slightly if necessary, but try not to cram them in too tightly.
6. **Pressure Cook:** Secure the Instant Pot lid and make sure the vent is set to 'Sealing.' Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' setting and set the cooking time to 25 minutes for baby back ribs or 35 minutes for spareribs on high pressure. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking countdown begins.
7. **Natural Pressure Release:** Once the cooking cycle is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes. This step is super important as it helps to keep the ribs tender and juicy. After 10-15 minutes, carefully turn the vent to 'Venting' to release any remaining pressure. Once the pin drops, you can safely open the lid.
8. **Prepare for Broiling:** Preheat your oven broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Carefully remove the ribs from the Instant Pot using tongs; they will be very tender and might want to fall apart! Transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
9. **Sauce and Broil:** Generously brush your favorite BBQ sauce all over the ribs, making sure to coat them thoroughly. Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Broil for 5-10 minutes, keeping a very close eye on them to prevent burning. You're looking for that beautiful, bubbly, slightly charred, caramelized glaze. This step is where they truly become 'BBQ' ribs!
10. **Rest and Serve:** Once the ribs are perfectly caramelized, remove them from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them between the bones. Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce on the side and your favorite fixings. Enjoy your unbelievably tender, BBQ-flavored ribs, made easy with your Instant Pot!