"Don't You Worry About A Thing" Tender & Delicious Instant Pot Country-Style Pork Ribs

These instant pot country-style ribs come out fall-off-the-bone delicious with little effort from the cook. Cuban-inspired flavors set these off so make sure you have plenty of bread on hand to sop up the insatiable sauce.

Not only do these ribs have great flavor, but they are also cooked from start to finish in no time. A long slow cooking process like braising takes.a long time. The instant pot remedies all that and is one of my favorite ways to enjoy boneless country-style ribs.

I love pork ribs that have been slow-cooked until they are super fork tender delights. My favorite way to make them is with a Cuban-inspired flavor profile. I start by browning the ribs in a pan, then I add Cuban spices like cumin, garlic, and oregano.

Most instant pot country style ribs recipes are cooked in chicken broth based sauce along with something acidic like apple cider vinegar. Given this recipe utilizes more Cuban flavors citrus rules the day and is used in place of those traditional ingredients. Similar, you can keep your favorite bbq sauce tucked away in the cabinet cause you won't need it either.

I also added fresh tomatoes and sour orange juice to the pan. Then I let everything cook slowly in the oven until the ribs are tender and the sauce is thick and delicious.

What are country style ribs

Country-style pork ribs are a type of pork rib that is usually boneless. They can come from either the pork loin or the shoulder area of the pig, and either cut of pork is relatively lean. When cooked right, they make for a tender cut of meat.

These ribs are often used in recipes that call for pork chops, as they have a similar flavor and texture. Country-style pork ribs are typically cooked using dry heat methods such as grilling or baking.

They can also be braised or stewed, although this will result in much more tender ribs. When cooking country-style pork ribs, it is important to cook them until they are fork-tender. Otherwise, they can be tough and chewy.

What's the Difference Between Spare Ribs and Country Style Ribs?

Spare ribs and country-style ribs are both popular cuts of pork, but they differ in several ways, including their location on the pig, appearance, meat-to-bone ratio, and ideal cooking methods. Here's a breakdown of the main differences between spare ribs and country-style ribs:

1. Cut and Location:
   • Spare Ribs: Spare ribs are cut from the lower portion of the pig's ribcage, specifically from the belly area. They are longer and flatter compared to country-style ribs, with bone segments that are connected by meat.
   • Country-Style Ribs: Country-style ribs are not actually ribs in the traditional sense. They are typically cut from near the pork shoulder. As a result, they have a meatier, rectangular shape and may contain part of the shoulder blade bone.
2. Meat-to-Bone Ratio:
   • Spare Ribs: Spare ribs have a lower meat-to-bone ratio, meaning there is less meat compared to the amount of bone. They are known for their rich marbling and intense pork flavor.
   • Country-Style Ribs: Country-style ribs have a higher meat-to-bone ratio, offering more meat per bone. This makes them meatier and more substantial than spare ribs.
3. Appearance:
   • Spare Ribs: Spare ribs often have a more irregular and curved appearance due to their location on the belly of the pig. They typically have more fat content and connective tissue between the bones.
   • Country-Style Ribs: Country-style ribs have a neater and more rectangular shape, resembling pork chops rather than traditional ribs. They are usually leaner with less fat.
4. Cooking Methods:
   • Spare Ribs: Spare ribs are often smoked, grilled, or slow-cooked to render the fat and tenderize the meat. They are well-suited for barbecue and smoked rib recipes.
   • Country-Style Ribs: Country-style ribs are versatile and can be prepared using various cooking methods, including grilling, roasting, braising, or even pan-frying. Their meaty composition allows them to be cooked in a variety of ways.
5. Flavor and Texture:
   • Spare Ribs: Spare ribs are known for their strong pork flavor, tenderness when properly cooked, and the presence of juicy fat that can be rendered during cooking.
   • Country-Style Ribs: Country-style ribs have a milder pork flavor compared to spare ribs. They are leaner, making them slightly less tender but still flavorful when cooked correctly.

Why This Recipe Works

The Instant Pot country-style pork ribs recipe infused with Cuban flavors is pure goodness that works exceptionally well for several reasons:

1. Tender and Juicy Ribs: The Instant Pot's pressure cooking method works wonders in transforming tough cuts of country-style pork ribs into tender, melt-in-your-mouth perfection. It achieves in a fraction of the time what would typically require hours of slow cooking or braising.

2. Bursting Cuban Flavors: The Cuban-inspired sauce, typically featuring a blend of spices, citrus, and a hint of sweetness, elevates the flavor profile of the ribs. The Instant Pot efficiently infuses the meat with these vibrant Cuban flavors, resulting in a truly satisfying and memorable dish.

3. Speed and Efficiency: This recipe takes the rich and complex flavors of traditional Cuban cuisine and makes them accessible on a weeknight. The Instant Pot's efficiency means you can enjoy Cuban-inspired ribs without the lengthy cooking times typically associated with such robust flavors.

4. Versatility: The Instant Pot's versatility allows for both pressure cooking and sautéing, enabling you to sear the ribs before pressure cooking. This crucial step enhances the depth of flavor by creating a beautiful caramelized crust on the meat.

5. Minimal Effort, Maximum Reward: The ease of preparing this dish in the Instant Pot means you can enjoy the robust and authentic taste of Cuban-inspired ribs with minimal effort. It's a recipe that delivers exceptional results without the need for extensive cooking skills.

Beats & Eats (music to pair with country-style ribs)

Pairing Stevie Wonder's joyful and rhythmic song "Don't You Worry 'bout a Thing" with a plate of succulent Instant Pot country-style ribs cooked in Cuban sauce creates a harmonious and uplifting experience that's sure to brighten your day.

As the lively melodies and lyrics of the song envelop your senses, imagine yourself in a vibrant Cuban fiesta, where the music and the aroma of flavorful ribs fill the air. The upbeat tempo of the song mirrors the excitement of uncovering a delicious meal that's been effortlessly prepared in your Instant Pot.

Now, picture those tender country-style ribs, bathed in a rich and zesty Cuban sauce, ready to be savored. The combination of spices, citrus, and a touch of sweetness in the sauce complements the hearty meat beautifully. It's a culinary dance of flavors and rhythms that will have you tapping your feet in time with the music.

This pairing is a celebration of life's simple pleasures—good food, good music, and good company. As Stevie Wonder's lyrics remind us not to worry, you can relax and enjoy the moment, savoring each bite of these Cuban-inspired ribs. It's a symphony of taste and sound, a reminder that even in the busyness of life, there's always room for a little joy and a delicious meal that makes worries melt away.

Ingredients Needed To Make Cuban Flavored Country Style Ribs

• Boneless Country-Style Pork Ribs

For the Marinade/Sauce

• Garlic Cloves
• Fresh Oregano
• Cumin
• Bay leaf
• Orange Juice
• Lime juice
• Dry white wine
• Kosher Salt
• Black Pepper
• Smoked paprika (optional)

For the Ribs

• Olive oil
• Carrot
• Red onion
• Leeks 
• Poblano
• Diced Tomatoes
• Habanero pepper

How To Cook Boneless Country Ribs in an Instant Pot

Make the marinade

• The first step is to make the marinade. Mix all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

Cook country style ribs

• Place the boneless ribs in a baking dish or ziplock bag. Add the marinade to the bag and refrigerate overnight. Flip halfway through the marinating process if ribs aren’t fully covered.
• Remove ribs from the refrigerator. Remove from marinade (reserve the marinade). Dry the ribs fully with a paper towel and set them aside to reach room temperature.
• Turn on Instant Pot via “more” Saute settings. Once the display reads “Hot” add oil. Place ribs in a single layer and brown on both sides. Remove themeat and set aside.
• Add the vegetables (carrots, leeks, onions, poblanos) to the pot and sauté 3-4 minutes.
• Add the pork back with marinade submerging them as much as possible. Add bay leaf, habanero and fresh herbs if using. Pressure cook on high 40 minutes, then naturally release for 20 minutes. Perform quick release if there is any remaining pressure.
• Remove the cooked ribs then add tomatoes and cook down until sauce thickens (about 10 minutes).

What to Serve With Country Style Ribs

Country-style ribs, with their meaty and flavorful characteristics, pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside country-style ribs:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and classic side that complements the savory flavors of the ribs.
2. Coleslaw: A fresh and tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ribs. It's a popular choice at barbecues and picnics.
3. Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread is a southern favorite and pairs exceptionally well with country-style ribs. It's great for sopping up the flavorful juices.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that adds a comforting element to the meal.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans, with their hearty texture and smoky flavors, are a classic barbecue side dish.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Grilled or roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus, provide a healthy and flavorful side option.
7. Potato Salad: Tangy and creamy potato salad is another classic barbecue accompaniment that pairs well with the ribs.
8. Green Beans: Steamed or sautéed green beans with garlic and butter offer a simple and nutritious side dish.
9. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potato wedges or cubes seasoned with herbs and spices offer a sweet and savory side option.

Cooking Considerations and Tips

Browning is such an essential step instant pot cooking, so don't skip this step!

This is an easy recipe so don't overthink it. It's simply - marinate, saute, pressure cook, and reduce the sauce.

You can add additional dry spices like onion powder or garlic powder to season the ribs as well, but it's not necessary. I only mention because we love our onion and garlic powders lol.

This dish also keeps well if you're thinking about leftovers. Just place everything in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.

This recipe works with fatty beef dishes as well. I actually use the same flavor profile and technique to make instant pot oxtail.

For even more of a balance savory flavor profile you can add some beef broth to the cooking liquid mix.

The tender meat will be fall apart tender. Good luck with that knife and fork!

If you prefer to bake ribs at a low temperature for oven baked country style ribs, then go ahead and just make sure you have a heavy lid to seal the pot.

for smoke flavor feel free to use a smidget of liquid smoke.

Serve the ribs and flavorful sauce over a bed of rice or other grains like fonio, couscous, or quinoa. You can also pair with your favorite sides like potato salad, green beans, or stewed okra.

Reserve the leftover sauce to use to flavor vegetables like black beans or even rice.

Can you make these ribs on the stovetop?

Sure you can follow the same steps minus the pressure cooking mentions. I just cook everything in a large dutch oven and cook as a slow braise. Same goes for cooking these in a crock pot if that's your thing.

Where can you find boneless country style ribs?

They are readily available everywhere so should have success finding them in your local grocery store.

Can I cook frozen country-style pork ribs in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook frozen country-style pork ribs in the Instant Pot. However, it may take longer to come to pressure, so you should adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Should I brown the ribs before pressure cooking them?

Browning the ribs before pressure cooking is optional but recommended. It helps enhance the flavor and texture by creating a nice sear on the meat. You can use the Instant Pot's sauté function for this.

Do I need to use a trivet or steaming rack when cooking pork ribs in the Instant Pot?

Using a trivet or steaming rack is not necessary but can help elevate the ribs above the liquid, which is especially useful when you want to avoid a soggy texture.

How do I release the pressure when the ribs are done cooking?

You can release the pressure using the natural release method (letting the Instant Pot depressurize on its own) or the quick release method (manually venting the steam). The method you choose depends on your recipe and how tender you want the ribs to be.

For other recipes you might like try these:

Smoked Spare Ribs

Brined and Grilled Pork Chops

Jamaican Jerk Baby Back Ribs

Smoked Beef Ribs

Tender and Juicy 3-2-1 Smoked Spare Ribs

Air Fryer Pork Ribs

Easy Oven Baked Ribs

Make This Pork Ribs Recipe

This Instant Pot Country Style Pork Ribs recipe is a winner for the whole family! The pork ribs are tender and juicy, and the sauce is flavorful and slightly spicy. We highly recommend giving this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!

If you make these juicy boneless pork ribs please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

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