Frozen ribs are a convenient option for those who want to enjoy delicious and tender ribs without the hassle of defrosting. And what better way to cook them than in an air fryer? Air fryers have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their ability to cook food quickly and with less oil. In this article, we will guide you through the quick and easy steps to cook frozen ribs in an air fryer, allowing you to enjoy a mouthwatering meal in no time!
Gather Your Ingredients and Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need a rack of frozen ribs, your favorite BBQ sauce, and any seasoning or rub you prefer. Once you have everything ready, it’s time to preheat your air fryer. Set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the ribs.
Prepare the Ribs
To ensure that your frozen ribs turn out juicy and delectable, there are a few crucial steps to follow before cooking. Start by removing the ribs from their packaging and placing them on a cutting board. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is essential to achieving a crispy exterior while preserving the tenderness inside.
Season the Ribs
Next, season the ribs to enhance their flavor. You can use a pre-made dry rub or create your own blend using spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making every bite scrumptious.
Apply BBQ Sauce
For a lip-smacking BBQ taste, it’s time to slather the ribs with your favorite sauce. Whether it’s a tangy vinegar-based sauce or a sweet and sticky variant, generously coat the ribs with BBQ sauce on both sides. This step adds extra moisture and caramelization, creating a delectable glaze that will make your ribs irresistible.
Cooking In The Air Fryer
Now that your air fryer is preheated, it’s time to cook the frozen ribs. Before placing them in the air fryer, consider cutting the rack into smaller portions to ensure even and efficient cooking. If your air fryer can accommodate the full rack without overlapping, you can skip this step.
Air Fry the Ribs
Place the ribs on the air fryer’s rack or in the basket, making sure they are positioned in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as it can hinder the circulation of hot air and prevent even cooking. Set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cook the ribs for 20 minutes. To achieve that irresistibly crispy exterior, flip the ribs halfway through the cooking time.
Baste and Cook Further
After the initial cooking time, take a moment to baste the ribs with more BBQ sauce. This additional layer of flavor will further enhance the taste of the ribs. Once done, put the ribs back into the air fryer and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes.
Check for Doneness
To ensure your ribs are cooked to perfection, it’s vital to check for doneness. Slice into the meat with a sharp knife near the bone to make sure it is tender and fully cooked. If needed, cook the ribs for a few more minutes until they reach the desired level of tenderness. Remember that cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of the ribs.
Serve and Enjoy
Once your frozen ribs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the meat to retain its juices, making it moist and tender. After resting, it’s time to serve and savor the deliciousness of your air fryer-cooked frozen ribs. Pair them with your favorite side dishes, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Now that you know the quick and easy steps to cook frozen ribs in an air fryer, you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish whenever the craving strikes. The convenience, speed, and delicious results make cooking frozen ribs in an air fryer a game-changer in the kitchen. So, fire up your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in tender, flavorful ribs that will leave you wanting more!