If you’ve ever shopped for pork ribs in the meat section, you might be confused as to which you are actually looking for. 

In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of pork ribs so you can decide which one is right for your next meal.

What Are The Different Types Of Pork Ribs?

The three main types of pork ribs are spare ribs, baby back ribs, and St. Louis Ribs.  There are a few key differences to keep in mind: spare ribs have larger, meatier (with more bone and fat) spares, baby back ribs come from the rear loin region, and St. Louis ribs are trimmed spare ribs.

So, how are they different from one another? Here’s what you need to know:

Spare ribs

This cut of pork ribs is the long and flat ribs that come from the pig’s belly. They have a lot of fat which gives them their flavor but this also means that they can be quite tough. If you’re looking to slow cook them, we recommend using the indirect grilling method.

Baby back ribs

As the name suggests, baby back ribs come from the pig’s back and are shorter and narrower than spare ribs. They have less fat which makes them leaner and more tender. If you’re looking to grill them, we recommend using the direct grilling method.

St. Louis ribs

St. Louis ribs are a type of spare ribs that have been trimmed of the cartilage and breastbone. This gives them a more rectangular shape which makes them easier to eat. If you’re looking to slow cook them, we recommend using the indirect grilling method.

Country-style ribs

Country-style ribs are actually not ribs at all but they are a cut of pork that comes from the shoulder of the pig. They are usually sold as boneless or bone-in and they can be either grilled or slow-cooked.

Rib tips

Rib tips are the small, triangular-shaped pieces of meat that are attached to the St. Louis ribs. They are usually sold separately and they can be either grilled or slow-cooked.

Which Ribs Are The Juiciest Pork Ribs?

Spare ribs and baby back ribs are the juiciest types of pork ribs. The spare ribs and baby back ribs have the most fat, unlike the St. Louis ribs.

However, the amount of fat in each rib can differ depending on the pig. Still, in general, spare ribs and baby back ribs are the ones containing the flavorful juices.

What Is The Most Tender Pork Ribs?

The most tender types of pork ribs are usually baby back ribs. They are considered the most tender because they have less fat and are leaner than spare ribs. However, this is also one of the factors why this type of pork ribs is expensive.

Depending on how the pig was butchered, the amount of fat and muscle can differ. However, in general, baby back ribs are the ones that are more tender than other types of ribs.

What Kind Of Ribs Is The Meatiest?

Country-style ribs are considered the meatiest because there’s not much bone in them. It is also a good option if you’re looking for lean pork ribs other than baby back ribs.

As mentioned, country-style ribs are actually not ribs but they are a cut of pork that comes from the shoulder area. This makes each cut thicker and meatier than other types of ribs. They’re made up of a lot of connective tissue and fat, so they’re great for barbecuing which makes them, after all, just like real ribs.

What Are The Most Affordable Pork Ribs?

Spare ribs are arguably the most affordable types of pork ribs. They come from the pork belly area after the bacon (another cut of pork meat) is removed. Spare ribs are commonly seen at grocery stores.

Spare ribs are the biggest portion of ribs compared to other types. It is usually sold in slabs but can also be cut in different sizes. Compared to the other pork ribs, many buy spare ribs on a regular basis to satisfy their cravings.

Are Spare Ribs And Rib Tips The Same?

Spare ribs and rib tips are not the same but different cuts of pork. Spare ribs are bigger in size and they come from the side and belly of the pig. 

Rib tips, on the other hand, are small, triangular-shaped pieces of meat that are attached to the St. Louis ribs. They are usually sold separately and are also popular to many because it has cartilage which makes them tasty.

You Can Never Go Wrong With Pork Ribs 

Pork ribs can be either grilled or slow-cooked. But there’s no denying that grilling pork ribs is the staple way of cooking to enjoy them as they can be either grilled or slow-cooked.

If you’re planning to cook pork ribs through grilling or roasting, you can check out the Z Grills BBQ. This griller is definitely a good griller that can help you cooking your pork ribs. 

Z Grills BBQ has a wide temperature range and big capacity to accommodate any type of meat. Unlike other grills, it was built in a compact design but for heavy-duty usage It is even a versatile smoker and wood-fired oven all in one.
If you want to learn more, you can visit our online store or you may contact us through chat or call!