When it comes to BBQ, there are few debates as fiery as the one surrounding St Louis vs Baby Back Ribs. Both styles have staunch defenders and passionate detractors, and it’s easy to see why. While St Louis ribs are thicker and meatier, with a higher fat content and a bit more chew, baby backs are leaner and more tender. Depending on your preferences, one may be the clear winner. But the debate extends far beyond matters of taste and texture. Each style has a unique history and cultural significance, making judging them on any objective scale hard. So, which one do you prefer: St Louis vs Baby Back Ribs?
What are St Louis Ribs?
St Louis Ribs, also known as St Louis-style ribs, is a pork rib dish popular in the United States. These ribs are cut from the pork shoulder and are spare pork ribs with the rib tips removed. They have a distinct rectangular shape and contain more meat than baby back ribs and less fat than other ribs.
St Louis Ribs are typically prepared using a dry rub and are slow-cooked in a smoker or oven. This slow cooking process results in tender, succulent ribs that are flavorful. The dry rub is usually a blend of spices, herbs, and seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, cumin, and oregano, which creates a unique and delicious flavor.
These ribs are commonly served with a sauce such as a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. St Louis-style ribs are a popular menu item at many restaurants, but they are also easy to prepare in the comfort of your home.
What are Baby Back Ribs?
Baby back ribs, also known as “loin back ribs,” are cut from the top of the rib cage, closer to the spine. The bones are shorter, and the meat is leaner and more tender than the other cuts of pork ribs. Because of the leaner cut, baby back ribs require less cooking time and offer a leaner, more tender eating experience.
These delicious ribs are popular for grilling and barbecuing because of their excellent flavor and tenderness. Baby back ribs are typically seasoned with a dry rub, then simmered over indirect heat until tender and juicy.
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy baby back ribs, you can buy them pre-cooked or prepare them yourself. To cook your own, season the ribs with a dry rub, wrap them in foil, and bake them in a 350-degree oven for about an hour and a half.
Once you’ve cooked your baby back ribs, you can finish them with your favorite barbeque sauce. Or you can serve them with a side of coleslaw or potato salad. No matter how you do them, you’ll surely enjoy the flavor and tenderness of these delicious ribs.
St Louis And Baby Back Ribs: What’re The Similarities
St. Louis and baby back ribs are both types of pork ribs. They’re cut from the same rib cage section and are usually sold in either a slab or a rack. The main difference between the two is the size and shape. St. Louis ribs are more squared-off and larger than baby back ribs. Baby’s back ribs are shorter and curved.
St. Louis and baby back ribs have a few commonalities when preparing the ribs. Both types of ribs should be cooked low and slow over indirect heat. This will help to ensure that they are tender and juicy when finished. Additionally, both ribs should be cooked until the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Another thing that St. Louis and baby back ribs have in common is the wood used for smoking. Hickory wood is the wood of choice for both, as it adds a unique flavor that can’t be replicated. This smoky flavor is one of the things that make both St. Louis and baby back ribs so popular.
St. Louis and baby back ribs also share the same cooking method. Both are typically cooked low and slow, which helps break down the connective tissue, making them tender and juicy. This method also helps to give the ribs a rich smoky flavor.
Finally, St. Louis and baby back ribs are known for their lip-smackingly delicious sauces. St. Louis is famous for its sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, while baby back ribs are often served with a spicy dry rub or a vinegar-based sauce.
What’s the Difference Between St Louis vs Baby Back Ribs?
St. Louis-style ribs are generally larger and flatter than baby back ribs. They also have more meat between the bones and are fattier, which adds to their flavor and juiciness after cooking. On the other hand, baby back ribs are leaner and contain the meat left behind after the pork loin has been removed. They are also quicker to cook due to their meatier nature.
Size and Weight
St. Louis-style ribs are typically flatter and straighter, weighing around 3 pounds or more, while baby back ribs are curved and shorter, usually weighing around 2 1/2 pounds. Because of their larger size, St. Louis-style ribs generally feed three to four people, while baby back ribs may only feed two to three. While St. Louis-style ribs are meatier and contain more fat, baby back ribs have less meat and are leaner.
Flavor
St Louis ribs are known for their meaty texture and higher fat content, which makes them rich and flavorful. Meanwhile, baby back ribs are leaner and have a milder pork flavor. St Louis ribs are ideal for those who want a more intense meaty taste, while baby back ribs are perfect for those who prefer a lighter, subtler taste. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a novice griller, understanding the flavor differences between these two popular rib types is crucial for creating a mouthwatering, finger-licking meal.
Texture
Baby back ribs come from the top of the rib cage and are smaller. They have leaner meat with minimal amounts of fat. On the other hand, St Louis ribs come from further down the hog and are rectangular. They are meatier and slightly tougher than baby back ribs, but they contain a healthy amount of marbling, which gives them a rich and succulent texture. St Louis ribs are also flatter, straighter, and easier to brown than the curved and shorter baby back ribs.
Which Type Of Rib Is Generally Considered To Be More Tender – St. Louis Or Baby Back?
When it comes to BBQ, one of the biggest debates is whether St Louis-style ribs or Baby Back ribs are more tender. Both are delicious in their own right, but some key differences make them unique.
St Louis-style ribs are flatter and straighter, making them easier to brown and cook evenly. They also have more meat between the bones and are higher in fat content, which enhances their flavor and juiciness. On the other hand, Baby Back ribs are leaner with less meat, but they cook more quickly and have minimal fat.
Popularity
St. Louis-style ribs are generally larger than baby back ribs and have a rectangular shape, with the sternum, cartilage, and rib tips removed. They also have more fat than baby backs, which enhances their flavor and juiciness after cooking. On the other hand, baby back ribs have leaner meat and less fat, making them a better choice for those watching their calorie intake. In terms of texture, St. Louis-style ribs are flatter and easier to brown, while baby back ribs have more meat between the bones.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, so whether you prefer the bigger and fattier St. Louis-style ribs or the leaner and meatier baby back ribs, both are sure to satisfy any barbecue lover’s cravings.
Cooking Time
St Louis Ribs are generally larger than baby backs, meaning they need at least 2.5 to 3 hours to cook at 300 degrees. In contrast, baby back ribs typically take only 1.5 to 2 hours to cook at the same temperature. It’s worth noting that cooking times can vary depending on the temperature and method used, but these are the general guidelines.
Availability
St. Louis-style ribs are typically larger than baby backs and have more fat, enhancing their flavor’s richness. They’re also uniform in shape, making them a bit easier to handle when cooking. On the other hand, baby back ribs are smaller and contain less fat. After a butcher removes the pork loin from the carcass, they’re cut from the meat left over. Both types of ribs are delicious in their way.
Which Type Of Rib Is More Expensive?
As for cost, St. Louis-style ribs tend to be slightly more expensive due to their larger size and meatier texture. However, the price can vary depending on the meat quality and where you purchase them. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to decide which type of rib they prefer based on their taste and budget.
Preparation
St. Louis ribs are cut from the belly of the pig after the spare ribs have been removed. These ribs are flatter and contain more cartilage, fat, and bone than baby back ribs. Because of their shape and the additional fat, St. Louis ribs are best when cooked low and slow, using a dry rub and indirect heat.
Baby back ribs are cut from the upper part of the pig’s rib cage, near the spine. These ribs are leaner than St. Louis ribs and contain more meat. Baby back ribs are best cooked over direct heat on the grill or in the oven.
Which One Works Best for a Crowd?
When feeding a large group, baby back ribs are often the better option. The leaner pieces make them more manageable to cook and usually cook faster than St Louis ribs. Additionally, people tend to eat less of the fatty St Louis ribs, meaning that you’ll need more of them to feed everyone.
Are Baby Back Ribs Healthier Than St. Louis Ribs?
Yes, baby back ribs are generally considered healthier than St. Louis ribs due to their lower fat content. They are also lower in calories and contain fewer calories and fat per serving.
Read more:
- St Louis Ribs Vs Spare Ribs
- New York Strip Vs Ribeye
- What Does Undercooked Pork Look Like
- How Long Is Cooked Pork Good In The Fridge
Which Type Of Rib Is Best For Smoking – St. Louis Or Baby Back?
When it comes to smoking, St. Louis ribs are typically the better choice. The additional fat and cartilage help to keep the ribs moist while they cook, resulting in a flavorful, tender dish. Additionally, the flat shape of the St. Louis ribs makes them easier to arrange on the smoker or grill.
How Do You Properly Smoke St. Louis Ribs For The Best Flavor?
If you’ve ever tasted St. Louis Ribs, you know that they can be some of the most flavorful and juicy ribs around. The rich flavors and textures make them a favorite for any barbecue enthusiast. But if you want to ensure you get the best flavor out of your St. Louis Ribs, you must learn how to smoke them properly.
Step 1: Select Your Ribs
First and foremost, you need to make sure you have the right cut of ribs for smoking. St. Louis-style ribs are typically cut from the whole slab of pork spareribs, which should have a good amount of meat on the bones. Make sure that you select ribs that are fresh and have a nice fat cap on them.
Step 2: Prepping the Ribs
Once you have your ribs, it’s time to start prepping them for smoking. Start by trimming off any excess fat or membrane on the back of the ribs. You’ll also want to remove any small pieces of bone or cartilage sticking out. Afterward, you can season the ribs with your favorite dry rub or marinade.
Step 3: Smoking the Ribs
Now that your ribs are prepped and seasoned, it’s time to start smoking them. When smoking St. Louis ribs, keeping the temperature low is essential. Aim for a temperature between 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll also want to use a combination of wood chips or chunks to add flavor. Apple, cherry, and hickory are great for smoking St. Louis ribs.
Step 4: Finishing the Ribs
Once the ribs have been smoking for an hour or two, finishing them off is time. Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and add a little liquid, such as apple juice or beer, to the foil packet. Then, rest the ribs on the smoker and smoke for another hour or two until the meat is tender and juicy.
What Common Mistakes To Avoid When Preparing St. Louis Ribs And Baby Back Ribs?
Regarding ribs, St. Louis-style ribs and Baby Back ribs are two of the most popular types. Whether you’re grilling or smoking these delicious cuts of pork, there are some common mistakes you should avoid when preparing them.
- Not removing the membrane: Before you begin to prepare your ribs, it’s important to remove the thin membrane on the back of the ribs. This thin, clear layer of fat and connective tissue can be difficult to remove once the ribs are cooked. Removing the membrane before you begin cooking will ensure that your ribs come out tender, juicy, and flavorful.
- Not marinating the ribs: Marinating the ribs in a spicy, tangy, or acidic marinade will help to tenderize the meat and add flavor. You can also use a dry rub to season the ribs before cooking, but marinating them will add another layer of flavor.
- Not using the right cooking method: Depending on the ribs you’re cooking, you’ll need to use the right cooking method. St. Louis-style ribs should be cooked slowly, while baby back ribs should be cooked quickly at higher heat.
- Not finishing the ribs properly: To get the perfect texture, you’ll need to finish the ribs properly. You should finish St. Louis-style ribs with a glaze of your favorite barbecue sauce. For baby back ribs, you should finish them with a sweet and tangy glaze, such as honey and mustard, or a brown sugar and honey glaze.
FAQs About St Louis vs Baby Back Ribs
What Seasoning Or Rub Pairs Well With St. Louis Ribs?
A dry rub consisting of ¼ cup packed dark brown sugar, three tablespoons paprika, 1 ½ tablespoons dry mustard, and 2 ½ cups dark brown sugar is a great option. Cayenne pepper can be added or reduced for those who want to adjust the spice level. Herbs such as thyme and rosemary can also give the rub an earthier flavor.
It’s also important to remember that the seasoning is only half of the equation – the cooking method matters as much! Using a 50/50 mix of water and apple cider vinegar (or apple juice) to spritz the ribs every 30-45 minutes will help keep them moist and flavorful. And don’t be afraid to get creative with the rub – adding three secret ingredients can take the flavor to the next level!
Are St. Louis-Style Ribs And Kansas City-Style Ribs The Same Thing?
It is a common question among BBQ enthusiasts, are St. Louis-style ribs and Kansas City-style ribs the same thing? Well, the answer is no, although they share some similarities.
St. Louis-style ribs are pork ribs with breastbone and cartilage removed. They are uniform in shape, a beautiful rectangle that makes them a little easier to work with. On the other hand, Kansas City-style ribs are also spare ribs, but they are trimmed less closely, leaving the longer portion of the rib bone minus the fatty tips. Kansas City-style ribs can be made from pork or beef, unlike St. Louis-style, specifically pork.
Another noticeable difference is the sauce. St. Louis-style BBQ has a slightly thinner sauce with heavier vinegar, while Kansas City-style BBQ has a thicker and sweeter sauce. Nonetheless, both are delicious and are all down to personal preference.
What Is The Difference Between Dry-Rubbed And Wet-Rubbed Ribs?
When preparing ribs, there are two options: dry-rubbed or wet-rubbed. Dry-rubbed ribs are seasoned with a mix of spices, such as garlic powder, cumin, and paprika, and are cooked without any added sauce. On the other hand, wet-rubbed ribs are coated in a sauce made from a blend of ingredients such as ketchup, vinegar, and honey.
The main difference between the two techniques is their texture and flavor. Dry-rubbed ribs have a crispy and savory crust, while wet-rubbed ribs are moist and sweet. Some people prefer one, but both methods can produce mouth-watering ribs. Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference and experimentation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, St Louis ribs and Baby Back ribs have unique flavor profiles and cooking techniques. St Louis ribs are the way to go if you’re looking for a more traditional, smoky, and savory flavor. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a lighter and sweeter flavor, Baby Back ribs are the way to go. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, but both ribs have their merits and can be prepared in various ways. So the next time you’re trying to decide between St Louis vs Baby Back Ribs, you can rest assured that you can’t go wrong either way.
References:
- https://www.bonappetit.com/story/how-to-buy-pork-ribs
- https://www.cleveland.com/taste/2011/05/ribs_styles_cover_kansas_city.html
Hey readers! Chip Holland here, and I’m a Manager of this website. My passion for writing about it only matches my passion for BBQ. Follow my blog for mouth-watering recipes, tips, and tricks for the perfect smoke, grill, and BBQ. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!