Apple Cider Instant Pot Ribs with Clove

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 hearty portions

Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker Essential for this ribs in instant pot how to cook guide.
Trivet or steamer basket Keeps the ribs elevated above the liquid, essential for even cooking.
Tongs For easy maneuvering of the ribs in and out of the pot.
Measuring cups and spoons Precision matters for spices.
Broiler or oven Optional but recommended for caramelizing the glaze.
Basting brush To slather on the final layer of sauce.

3 lbs bone-in pork ribs baby back or spare ribs work great; boneless pork ribs instant pot style can also be used
2 cups apple cider not vinegar—go for the sweet kind found in fall markets
1 tablespoon whole cloves
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup barbecue sauce choose a thick, smoky style
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard adds depth to the glaze

Start by rinsing the ribs and patting them dry. If your ribs still have the silver skin on the back, remove it by sliding a knife underneath and peeling it away—it helps make the ribs more tender.

Mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne in a bowl. Generously rub this spice blend all over the ribs, coating every nook and cranny. Let them rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Pour the apple cider, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and cloves into the Instant Pot. Set the trivet inside and carefully coil the ribs around it, bone side in. This allows for even cooking and easy removal.

Secure the lid, set the valve to "Sealing," and cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 30 minutes. Allow a 10-minute natural release, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Whether you're working with instant pot beef ribs bone in or instant pot pork ribs bone in, this timing gives you that fall-off-the-bone texture. This is what makes this one of the best instant pot meals you’ll return to again and again.

While the ribs are cooking, stir together your barbecue sauce, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Once the ribs are done, transfer them to a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush with the glaze and broil on high for 3–5 minutes, watching closely. The sugar in the glaze will caramelize and give the ribs that irresistible sticky, glossy finish.