Air fryer pork ribs offer a shortcut to tender, flavorful ribs. A dry rub before cooking creates a flavorful bark. Find simple steps for removing the membrane and achieving fall-off-the-bone tenderness inside.
Ingredients
1 rack baby back or spare ribs, cut into individual ribs or 2 to 3 rib sections
Your seasoning of choice (dry rub, no sauce until after cooking)
Season it upPairs with Classic BBQ Rub, Smoked Paprika & Brown Sugar, Honey Mustard Glaze, or Smoky MesquiteSee all seasonings →
Steps
01Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. Slide a butter knife under the membrane at one end, grab it with a paper towel, and pull. It should come off in one piece.
02Cut the rack into individual ribs or 2 to 3 rib sections that fit your basket.
03Season all sides generously.
04Ready for the air fryer.
05If using BBQ sauce, brush it on in the last 3 to 5 minutes of cooking only.
The membrane removal is the one step that separates good ribs from great ribs. That membrane is tough, chewy, and blocks seasoning from reaching the meat. It peels off in one piece if you grip it firmly with a paper towel. If you leave it on, the back of the ribs will be rubbery no matter how long you cook them.