Spare Ribs Vs St Louis Vs Baby Back
Introduction
Barbecue is more than just food; it's an art form. When it comes to ribs, there are three popular cuts - spare ribs, St Louis ribs, and baby back ribs. Each cut has its unique characteristics, and as a barbecue lover, it's essential to know the difference. In this article, we'll break down the differences between spare ribs, St Louis ribs, and baby back ribs.
Spare Ribs
Spare ribs come from the belly of the pig and are longer and flatter than other types of ribs. They have more bone than meat, making them less meaty than other cuts. Spare ribs are usually less expensive than other cuts, making them an excellent option for those on a budget. They are perfect for low and slow cooking methods like smoking or braising.
St Louis Ribs
St Louis ribs are spare ribs with the brisket bone removed. This trimming process gives them a more rectangular shape, making them easier to cook and handle. They have more meat than spare ribs and are perfect for grilling or smoking. St Louis ribs are also a bit more expensive than spare ribs due to the trimming process.
Baby Back Ribs
Baby back ribs come from the loin of the pig and are smaller and leaner than spare ribs. They are curved and meatier than spare ribs or St. Louis ribs. Baby back ribs are perfect for grilling as they cook quickly and evenly. Due to their smaller size, they are more expensive than spare ribs and St Louis ribs.
What to Consider When Choosing Which Ribs to Cook
When choosing which ribs to cook, there are several factors to consider. The first factor is the cooking method. If you're planning to smoke or braise your ribs, spare ribs are a great option due to their bone-to-meat ratio. If you're planning to grill your ribs, baby back ribs are the best choice due to their quick cooking time. The second factor is the cost. Spare ribs are the least expensive, making them an excellent option for those on a budget. St Louis ribs are a bit more expensive due to the trimming process, and baby back ribs are the most expensive.
Conclusion
Whether you're a barbecue enthusiast or new to the game, knowing the difference between spare ribs, St Louis ribs, and baby back ribs is essential. Each cut has its unique characteristics and cooking methods. When choosing which ribs to cook, consider the cooking method and cost. Now that you know the difference between these cuts, it's time to fire up the grill and get cooking!