How To Prepare Short Ribs in an Electric Pressure Cooker

Introduction

Welcome to the world of electric pressure cooker cooking! If you’re a fan of tender, succulent short ribs, then you’re in for a treat. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing delicious short ribs using an electric pressure cooker. This cooking method not only saves you time, but also ensures that the ribs are cooked to perfection, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will leave you craving for more.

Short ribs are known for their rich flavor and marbling, which makes them ideal for slow cooking. With an electric pressure cooker, you can achieve the same results in a fraction of the time. The pressure cooking process not only tenderizes the meat but also helps to infuse the flavors into every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and will impress your family and friends.

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to have the right equipment and ingredients. In the next sections, we will discuss the equipment needed, as well as the key ingredients to bring out the best flavors in your short ribs. So, let’s get started and get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

Equipment Needed

Before you begin cooking your short ribs in an electric pressure cooker, it’s essential to gather the necessary equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

Electric Pressure Cooker: The star of the show! Choose a high-quality electric pressure cooker that has a reliable pressure release valve and a non-stick cooking pot. This will ensure even cooking and easy cleanup.
Tongs: Tongs will come in handy when you need to flip and handle the short ribs during browning and transferring them into the pressure cooker. Opt for long tongs for added safety.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Have a set of measuring spoons and cups ready to measure spices, liquids, and other ingredients.
Cutting Board and Knife: You’ll need a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife to trim excess fat, chop onions, and other prep work before cooking.
Garlic Press: If you prefer using fresh garlic in your cooking, a garlic press is a handy tool to have. It helps extract the maximum flavor from the garlic cloves and saves you from having to mince them finely.
Trivet or Steamer Basket: These tools are useful when you want to elevate the short ribs above the liquid during the cooking process. They prevent the ribs from sticking to the bottom of the pot and allows for even distribution of heat.
Aluminum Foil or Plastic Wrap: In some recipes, you may need to wrap the short ribs in foil or plastic wrap before pressure cooking them. This helps seal in the flavors and keeps the ribs moist and tender.
Plates and Serving Utensils: Prepare a few plates for serving the cooked short ribs and have serving utensils ready for easy plating.

By ensuring you have all the necessary equipment on hand, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the cooking process and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the next section: gathering the ingredients for your flavorful short ribs!

Ingredients

To create a mouthwatering dish of short ribs in your electric pressure cooker, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 pounds of short ribs: Look for bone-in short ribs with good marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil: The oil will be used for browning the ribs before pressure cooking them. Vegetable oil has a high smoke point, making it a suitable choice for this step.
1 medium-sized onion: The onion will add a savory and aromatic base to the dish. You can use white, yellow, or red onion based on your preference.
4 garlic cloves: Garlic is essential for adding depth and flavor to the short ribs. Fresh garlic is recommended for the best results, but you can also use minced garlic if needed.
1 cup of beef broth: The beef broth will act as the cooking liquid to help infuse the ribs with rich flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade beef broth.
2 tablespoons of soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor to the dish. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer to control the saltiness.
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce: Worcestershire sauce enhances the meaty flavor of the short ribs and provides a subtle tanginess.
1 tablespoon of brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors and helps create a delicious sauce.
1 teaspoon of dried thyme: Dried thyme provides a hint of earthy and herbal notes to complement the flavors of the ribs.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Season the short ribs with salt and black pepper to enhance the overall taste.
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness to the dish and can be used as a final garnish.

Having these ingredients ready will ensure that you can create a delicious and flavorful dish of short ribs in your electric pressure cooker. Now that you have your equipment and ingredients prepared, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. Follow the next steps to achieve tender and juicy short ribs that will wow your taste buds!

Step 1: Seasoning the Ribs

To ensure that your short ribs are packed with flavor, it’s important to season them well. Follow these simple steps to season your ribs before cooking:

Trim excess fat: Begin by trimming any excessive fat from the surface of the ribs. A thin layer of fat is desirable as it adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking, but too much fat can lead to an overly greasy dish.
Season with salt and pepper: Sprinkle the short ribs generously with salt and black pepper. Be sure to season each side of the ribs thoroughly, as this will enhance the overall taste.
Add dried thyme: Sprinkle the dried thyme evenly over the seasoned ribs. Thyme pairs well with beef and will add a delightful herbal note to the dish.
Massage the seasoning: Gently rub the seasonings into the meat, ensuring that they are evenly distributed. This will help the flavors penetrate the ribs and create a depth of taste throughout.

Once you’ve seasoned the ribs, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This resting period will allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat and infuse it with flavor. During this time, you can prepare the remaining ingredients and equipment for the cooking process.

Now that the short ribs are perfectly seasoned, it’s time to move on to the next step: browning the ribs to lock in the flavors and create a delicious crust on the outside.

Step 2: Browning the Ribs

Before pressure cooking the short ribs, it’s essential to sear them to develop a rich, caramelized crust. This step adds a depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect sear:

Heat the electric pressure cooker: Select the “Sauté” or “Brown” setting on your electric pressure cooker and allow it to preheat. This will ensure that the ribs sear properly.
Add vegetable oil: Once the cooker is hot, add the vegetable oil. Swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pot evenly.
Sear the ribs: Carefully place the seasoned short ribs into the hot oil. Allow them to sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust. Use tongs to help flip the ribs and prevent them from sticking.
Remove the browned ribs: Once the ribs are nicely browned on all sides, remove them from the cooker and set them aside on a plate. This step helps to lock in the flavors and adds texture to the final dish.

Browning the short ribs not only enhances the flavor but also creates an appetizing appearance. The caramelization process adds depth and richness, elevating the overall taste experience. Now that you’ve successfully browned the ribs, it’s time to move on to the next step: pressure cooking the ribs to tender perfection.

Step 3: Cooking in the Electric Pressure Cooker

Now that the short ribs are beautifully browned, it’s time to transfer them into the electric pressure cooker and let the magic happen. Here’s how to proceed:

Add onions and garlic: In the same pot used for browning the ribs, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for a few minutes until they become fragrant and slightly softened. This will enhance the flavor of the dish.
Deglaze the pot: Pour the beef broth into the pot and use a spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits that may be stuck to the bottom. This process, known as deglazing, adds depth to the sauce and prevents any burnt flavor.
Season with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar: Add the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar to the pot. Stir well to combine the ingredients and dissolve the sugar.
Place the ribs back into the pot: Carefully place the browned short ribs back into the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. The flavorful liquid will help break down the meat fibres and create tender, juicy ribs.
Seal the pressure cooker: Securely lock the lid of the electric pressure cooker in place. Make sure the pressure release valve is set to the sealing position.
Select the cooking time and start the pressure cooker: Depending on your specific pressure cooker model, select the appropriate cooking time. Typically, short ribs require around 45-50 minutes of cooking on high pressure. Start the pressure cooker and let it work its magic.

Once the pressure cooker has finished cooking, it will automatically switch to the “Keep Warm” setting. At this point, you have two options for releasing the pressure: natural release or quick release. The method you choose will depend on your preference and the recipe you’re following. Let’s explore both options in the next steps.

Step 4: Natural Release or Quick Release

After the cooking time has completed in the electric pressure cooker, you have two options for releasing the pressure: natural release or quick release. Both methods have their advantages, so let’s explore each one:

Natural Release: Natural release involves allowing the pressure to release naturally without intervention. After the cooking time is complete, simply leave the electric pressure cooker undisturbed and let the pressure drop on its own. This process can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the ribs. Natural release is ideal when you want a more tender and delicate texture for your short ribs.
Quick Release: Quick release is a method where you manually release the pressure using the pressure release valve. Be cautious when performing this step, as the rapid release of steam can cause burns. To quick release, carefully move the pressure release valve to the venting position using a long-handled utensil or oven mitt. The steam will escape, and the pressure will drop quickly. Quick release is useful when you’re short on time or want to control the cooking process more precisely.

Once the pressure has been fully released, it’s safe to open the lid. The short ribs should be tender and succulent, ready to be enjoyed. However, before serving, there are a few final touches you can add to elevate the dish even further. Let’s move on to the next step to learn about these finishing touches.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Now that your short ribs have been cooked to tender perfection in the electric pressure cooker, it’s time to add some finishing touches to elevate the dish. Here are a few options to consider:

Skim off excess fat: If there is any excess fat floating on top of the cooking liquid, use a spoon or a fat separator to skim it off. This step helps ensure that the sauce is not overly greasy.
Strain the sauce: For a smoother sauce, you can strain it to remove any onion or garlic pieces. Simply pour the cooking liquid through a fine mesh strainer into a separate bowl or saucepan. This step is optional but can result in a more refined texture.
Reduce the sauce: If you desire a thicker and more concentrated sauce, you can simmer the strained cooking liquid on the stovetop. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it reduce to your desired consistency. This step intensifies the flavors and creates a luscious sauce to accompany the short ribs.
Garnish with fresh parsley: Finely chop some fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the plated short ribs before serving. The vibrant green color and refreshing taste of parsley add visual appeal and freshness to the dish.

These finishing touches will add extra flavor, texture, and visual appeal to your short ribs dish, taking it to the next level. Once you’ve completed these steps, it’s time to serve and enjoy your mouthwatering creation!

Speaking of serving, let’s move on to the next step to discover how to present and enjoy your perfectly cooked short ribs.

Step 6: Serving and Enjoying

After all the hard work of preparing and cooking the short ribs in your electric pressure cooker, it’s finally time to savor the delicious flavors. Here’s how to serve and enjoy your perfectly cooked short ribs:

Arrange the short ribs: Carefully place the tender short ribs on a serving platter or individual plates. The presentation is up to you, but consider placing them bone-side up for an appealing display.
Drizzle with sauce: Spoon some of the luscious cooking sauce over the top of the short ribs. The rich and savory sauce will enhance the flavors and add moisture to the dish.
Pair with sides: Short ribs pair well with various side dishes. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. The sides will complement the robust flavors of the ribs, balancing the richness of the dish.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, you can garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or other herbs. Not only does this add visual appeal, but it also contributes to the overall taste profile.
Enjoy and savor: With your short ribs plated and ready to go, it’s time to dig in! Take a moment to appreciate the tenderness, the aromas, and the flavors that you’ve worked so hard to create. Make sure to savor each bite and enjoy the delightful combination of tastes and textures.

Whether you’re enjoying this dish with family or friends, the experience of sharing a delicious meal is always special. So, plate up your short ribs, gather around the table, and indulge in the succulent flavors that your electric pressure cooker has brought to life.

Before we wrap up, let’s go over a few additional tips and variations that you can consider for your next batch of short ribs!

Tips and Variations

Here are some additional tips and variations to help you further enhance your electric pressure cooker short ribs:

Use bone-in ribs: Cooking short ribs with the bone-in adds extra flavor and helps keep the meat tender during the cooking process.
Marinate the ribs: For even more flavor, consider marinating the short ribs overnight in a mixture of your choice. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat before cooking.
Experiment with different seasonings: While the classic combination of salt, pepper, and thyme is delicious, don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings. Try adding spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or rosemary to customize the flavors to your liking.
Add vegetables: To enhance the overall dish, consider adding vegetables such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the pressure cooker along with the short ribs. The vegetables will absorb the delicious flavors and create a well-rounded meal.
Make a gravy: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can transform the cooking liquid into a rich gravy. To do this, after straining the liquid, return it to the electric pressure cooker and thicken it using a cornstarch slurry or a roux made with flour and butter.
Pair with complementary sauces: While the natural cooking liquid is delicious, you can also serve your short ribs with complementary sauces such as BBQ sauce, red wine reduction, or a tangy chimichurri sauce.
Try different cuts of meat: If short ribs are not readily available, you can also try this recipe with other cuts of meat, such as beef chuck or boneless beef ribs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut you choose.
Double or adjust the recipe: This recipe can easily be doubled or adjusted to accommodate larger gatherings or personal preferences. Just ensure that your electric pressure cooker is not overcrowded, leaving enough space for proper cooking and pressure build-up.

By incorporating these tips and variations into your cooking, you can further customize and elevate your electric pressure cooker short ribs to suit your taste and preferences.

Now that you have all the knowledge and guidance needed to create delectable short ribs in your electric pressure cooker, it’s time to put the information into practice. Go ahead and enjoy the wonderful flavors and textures that await you in this mouthwatering dish!

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to prepare tender and flavorful short ribs using an electric pressure cooker. This cooking method saves you time without compromising on taste and texture. By following the step-by-step instructions we’ve provided, you can confidently create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.

Starting with seasoning and browning the ribs, you’ve learned the importance of building flavor and creating a delicious crust. Moving on to cooking in the electric pressure cooker, you discovered how to infuse the ribs with a savory sauce while tenderizing them to perfection.

During the finishing touches, you had the opportunity to refine the dish by skimming off excess fat, reducing the sauce, and adding a refreshing garnish. These small details make a big difference in the overall presentation and taste of the short ribs.

Throughout this process, we also shared various tips and variations to help you customize the recipe and make it your own. From experimenting with different seasonings to incorporating additional vegetables or sauces, you have the freedom to get creative and adapt the dish to your preferences.

Now that you possess the knowledge and skills to master this electric pressure cooker recipe, it’s time to bring the enticing aroma and flavors of short ribs to your dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these tender, succulent short ribs are sure to be a hit.

Remember to share the joy of cooking with others, and don’t hesitate to explore and try new variations to keep things exciting. With each cooking experience, you’ll become more comfortable and confident in using your electric pressure cooker to create delicious and satisfying meals.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your electric pressure cooker, and let the culinary adventure begin. Happy cooking and bon appétit!