Get The Inside Scoop On How To Cut Pork Ribs – A Step-by-step Guide!

Pork ribs are a popular and versatile cut of meat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. But before you can cook them, you need to know how to cut them properly. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the different types of pork ribs and how to cut them so that you can get the most out of your meal.

Types of Pork Ribs

There are three main types of pork ribs:

• Baby back ribs are the most popular type of pork ribs. They are cut from the top of the rib cage and are relatively short and meaty.
• Spare ribs are cut from the middle of the rib cage and are longer and flatter than baby back ribs. They have more fat and cartilage than baby back ribs, but they are also more flavorful.
• St. Louis-style ribs are a type of spare ribs that have been trimmed of excess fat and cartilage. They are named after the city of St. Louis, Missouri, where they are said to have originated.

How to Cut Pork Ribs

Once you have chosen the type of pork ribs you want, you need to cut them into individual portions. Here are the steps on how to cut pork ribs:

1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This membrane can be tough and chewy, so it’s important to remove it before cooking. To remove the membrane, use a sharp knife to score the membrane along the bone. Then, use your fingers to peel the membrane away from the ribs.
2. Cut the ribs into individual portions. The size of the portions will depend on your preference. For baby back ribs, you can cut them into 2-3 bone portions. For spare ribs, you can cut them into 3-4 bone portions.
3. Trim the excess fat and cartilage. Once the ribs are cut into portions, you can trim any excess fat or cartilage. This will help to make the ribs more tender and flavorful.

Tips for Cutting Pork Ribs

Here are a few tips for cutting pork ribs:

• Use a sharp knife. A dull knife will make it more difficult to cut through the ribs and can result in uneven cuts.
• Cut the ribs perpendicular to the bone. This will help to prevent the ribs from splintering.
• Be careful not to cut too close to the bone. This can make the ribs difficult to cook evenly.

Cooking Pork Ribs

Once you have cut the pork ribs, you can cook them in a variety of ways. Here are a few popular methods:

• Grilling is a great way to cook pork ribs. The ribs can be grilled over direct or indirect heat, and the cooking time will vary depending on the size of the ribs and the desired level of doneness.
• Smoking is another popular method for cooking pork ribs. The ribs can be smoked over a variety of woods, and the cooking time will vary depending on the size of the ribs and the desired level of smokiness.
• Braising is a great way to cook pork ribs if you want them to be fall-off-the-bone tender. The ribs can be braised in a variety of liquids, and the cooking time will vary depending on the size of the ribs and the desired level of tenderness.

Key Points

Cutting pork ribs is a simple process that can be done in a few minutes. By following the steps in this guide, you can cut pork ribs into perfect portions for your next meal.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: What is the difference between baby back ribs and spare ribs?

A: Baby back ribs are cut from the top of the rib cage and are relatively short and meaty. Spare ribs are cut from the middle of the rib cage and are longer and flatter than baby back ribs. They have more fat and cartilage than baby back ribs, but they are also more flavorful.

Q: How do I remove the membrane from the back of the ribs?

A: To remove the membrane from the back of the ribs, use a sharp knife to score the membrane along the bone. Then, use your fingers to peel the membrane away from the ribs.

Q: What is the best way to cook pork ribs?

A: There are a variety of ways to cook pork ribs, including grilling, smoking, and braising. The best method for you will depend on your personal preference and the equipment that you have available.