1. Preparation:
- Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This is a crucial step to ensure they become tender. Slide a knife under the membrane at one end and peel it away.
- Cut the ribs into sections that will fit into your air fryer basket, usually 3-4 ribs per section.
2. Season the Ribs:
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Brush the ribs with olive oil, then evenly rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, ensuring both sides are coated well.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Most air fryers have a preheat setting, but if yours does not, simply run it at 380°F for about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Ribs:
- Place the rib sections in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cook at 380°F for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, open the air fryer and flip the ribs to ensure even cooking.
5. Apply Barbecue Sauce:
- After the ribs have cooked for 25 minutes and are nearly done, brush them generously with your favorite barbecue sauce.
- Increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (204°C) and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will help caramelize the sauce and give the ribs a delicious glaze.
6. Rest and Serve:
- Once done, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the ribs even more tender.
- Serve the ribs with extra barbecue sauce on the side and your choice of sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs
- Membrane Removal: Don’t skip removing the membrane; it’s essential for achieving tender ribs.
- Spacing: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. This ensures the hot air circulates evenly around each piece.
- Checking Doneness: The ribs are done when the meat is tender and easily separates from the bone. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat (not touching the bone) should read 145°F (63°C), but cooking beyond this temperature can make the ribs even more tender.
- Sauce Options: Experiment with different barbecue sauces, from sweet to smoky to spicy, to find your favorite combination.
Enjoy your air fryer baby back ribs with your favorite sides for a delicious meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.