How to Prepare St. Louis Style Ribs
St. Louis style ribs are a popular choice for barbecue enthusiasts, known for their succulent meat and tender texture. These ribs are unique because they are cut from the bottom side of the pork belly, giving them a distinct shape and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner looking to impress, learning how to prepare St. Louis style ribs is a valuable skill. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of preparing these mouthwatering ribs, from selecting the right cut to the perfect cooking method.
Selecting the Right Cut
The first step in preparing St. Louis style ribs is to select the right cut. These ribs are typically referred to as “St. Louis cut” or “St. Louis style pork ribs.” They are distinguished by their distinctive “X” shape, which is created by removing the brisket and flaps of fat. When purchasing ribs, look for a package with a clear “St. Louis cut” label. The ribs should be well-marbled and have a pinkish hue, indicating freshness.
Preparation
Once you have your St. Louis style ribs, it’s time to prepare them for cooking. Start by removing any remaining silver skin, which is the shiny membrane on the back of the ribs. Use a butter knife or a dull knife to gently scrape the skin off. This step is crucial, as the silver skin can become tough and chewy during cooking.
Seasoning the Ribs
After preparing the ribs, it’s time to season them. There are many ways to season St. Louis style ribs, but a classic option is a dry rub. Combine equal parts of kosher salt, brown sugar, and black pepper. You can also add other spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor. Apply the rub evenly to both sides of the ribs, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
Cooking the Ribs
Now that the ribs are seasoned, it’s time to cook them. There are two popular methods for cooking St. Louis style ribs: smoking and grilling. Smoking is the preferred method for many pitmasters, as it imparts a smoky flavor and tenderizes the meat. To smoke the ribs, preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add your preferred wood chips. Place the ribs in the smoker, bone side down, and cook for about 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
If you prefer grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down, and cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). Keep in mind that grilling may require more frequent flipping and basting to prevent burning.
Serving
Once the ribs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill or smoker and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making the ribs even more tender. After resting, slice the ribs between the bones and serve them with your favorite side dishes, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or potato salad.
In conclusion, preparing St. Louis style ribs is a rewarding experience that yields delicious results. By following these simple steps, you can impress your friends and family with a classic barbecue dish. Happy grilling!
