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+ servings
air fried spare ribs, served on a white plate
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Easy Air Fryer Spare Ribs

https://fryit.co/air-fryer-spare-ribs-recipe/
Savor the convenience of delectable air fryer spare ribs seasoned with a mouthwatering dry rub. Effortlessly prepared and bursting with flavor, these ribs are a delightful addition to any meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Makes 2

Ingredients

  • 1 rack spare ribs
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce

For the Dry Rub:

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional for extra flavor

Instructions

  • Prepare the ribs. Flip the rack of spare ribs over so the bone side is facing up. Use a butter knife or your fingers to gently lift the thin membrane. Use a paper towel to grip and remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This step is essential for optimal seasoning adherence.
  • Cut the ribs into 2 to 4 pieces based on your air fryer's size.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 380ºF (193ºC) for 5 minutes.
  • Create a rib rub seasoning blend. Combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme in a small bowl.
  • Season pork ribs. Sprinkle the dry rub mixture evenly over both sides of the rib pieces. Gently press the rub onto the meat for an even coating.
  • Air fry spare ribs. Place the seasoned rib pieces in a single layer in the air fryer. Cook at 380ºF (193ºC) for 30 - 40 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Brush with BBQ sauce. About 10 minutes before the ribs are done, brush a layer of barbecue sauce on both sides. This step adds a final burst of tantalizing flavor and a sumptuous glaze.
  • Check for doneness. Confirm the ribs reach an internal temperature of 145ºF (63ºC) using a meat thermometer. Extend the cooking time by 5 - 10 minutes for even more tenderness if desired.
  • Once cooked, remove and let the spare ribs rest at room temperature for 5 minutes. This ensures the juices redistribute, creating a succulent and satisfying eating experience.
  • Serve & enjoy your air fried spare ribs and relish in a hassle-free and delicious meal.

Notes

  • DO NOT overlap nor stack the ribs in the air fryer. Otherwise, they won’t cook properly. If you have a small air fryer, cook them in batches.
  • Considering that cooking time varies depending on the meat's thickness (and your air fryer's specs), always check with a meat thermometer if your pork is cooked thoroughly. The pork's safe internal temperature is a minimum of 145ºF (63ºC).
  • If your air fryer doesn't have a preheating option, you can set the temperature to 380°F (193°C) and then let it cook for 4-5 minutes without food. 
  • You can skip preheating by adding 2-4 minutes to your cooking time. Increment gradually to prevent burning the spare ribs.
  • I used a 6-quart (air fryer) to test the spare ribs. Cooking time and temperature may vary depending on your air fryer and the number of servings you are making. For optimal results, begin with the lower end of the suggested cooking time.

Nutrition

Calories: 758kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 56g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 20g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 191mg | Sodium: 1728mg | Potassium: 732mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 689IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 68mg | Iron: 3mg
Visit fryit.co for more easy & tasty air fryer recipes.