How To Cut St Louis Style Ribs

How to Cut St. Louis Style Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide

St. Louis Style Ribs are a beloved barbecue favorite, known for their tender and flavorful meat. But if you’ve ever wondered how to properly cut these succulent ribs, you’re in the right place! With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to expertly trim and prepare your St. Louis Style Ribs like a seasoned pitmaster.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before diving into the cutting process, make sure you have the necessary tools at hand:

Sharp chef’s knife
Cutting board
Paper towels

Step 2: Remove the Membrane

The first step in preparing St. Louis Style Ribs is removing the tough membrane that covers the bone side of the rack. This membrane can become chewy when cooked, so it’s best to remove it for a more enjoyable eating experience.

To remove the membrane, start by loosening it with a butter knife or your fingers. Once loosened, grab hold of the membrane with a paper towel for a better grip and peel it off the rack in one swift motion. This may take a bit of practice, but the effort is worth it.

Step 3: Trim the Excess Fat

Next, take a close look at your rack of St. Louis Style Ribs and trim any excess fat. While a bit of fat is desirable for flavor, excessive fat can lead to a greasy result. Use your sharp chef’s knife to carefully trim away any large chunks of fat, leaving a thin layer for taste and moisture.

Step 4: Find the Natural Separation

Now, it’s time to separate the rack into individual ribs. Flip the ribs over to the bone side and locate the natural separations between the bones. You’ll notice white lines that indicate the spaces between each rib. Use these lines as a guide for your cuts.

Step 5: Cut Between the Ribs

Starting from one end of the rack, position your knife between the first two ribs and cut through the meat and cartilage. Repeat this process, cutting between each rib, until you have separate, bone-in ribs.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

With your St. Louis Style Ribs expertly cut and prepared, it’s time to fire up the grill or smoker and cook them to perfection. Whether you prefer a dry rub or a smoky barbecue sauce, these mouthwatering ribs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Remember to let the ribs rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become even more tender. Serve them up with your favorite side dishes, invite your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy a delicious barbecue feast!

Now that you know the secrets to cutting St. Louis Style Ribs, you can confidently take on this barbecue classic and impress everyone with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!

Share your tips and techniques for cutting St Louis style ribs in the Cooking Techniques forum section. Join the discussion and let us know your preferred method for preparing this classic cut of meat!

FAQ:

What are St. Louis style ribs?

St. Louis style ribs are a particular cut of pork ribs that have been trimmed and prepared in a specific way. These ribs are taken from the spare ribs, which are the lower ribs of the pig, and then trimmed to remove the cartilage and excess fat, resulting in a rectangular shape.

How do I know if I have St. Louis style ribs?

St. Louis style ribs are characterized by their rectangular shape and the removal of the breastbone and rib tips. They are usually sold as a whole rack or in individual rib sections. You can also ask your butcher if they carry St. Louis style ribs to ensure you get the right cut.

Why should I choose St. Louis style ribs over other rib cuts?

St. Louis style ribs are a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts because they have the perfect balance of meat and fat, making them incredibly tasty and tender when cooked properly. The trimmed shape also allows for more even cooking, making them an excellent choice for grilling or smoking.

How do I cut St. Louis style ribs from a whole rack?

To cut St. Louis style ribs from a whole rack, start by flipping the rack over so the bone side is facing up. Locate the breastbone and use a sharp knife to remove it by cutting along each side. Next, remove the flap of meat on the underside of the rack by cutting it off. Finally, square off the ends of the ribs by trimming away any excess meat or fat.

Can I buy pre-cut St. Louis style ribs?

Yes, you can find pre-cut St. Louis style ribs at many grocery stores or butcher shops. These are often packaged as individual rib sections, making them convenient if you don’t want to trim a whole rack yourself. However, if you prefer to have more control over the trimming process, you can still purchase a whole rack and cut them yourself at home.

Are there any tips for cutting St. Louis style ribs?

When cutting St. Louis style ribs, it’s essential to use a sharp knife to make clean cuts. Take your time and follow the natural curves of the bones as a guide. Additionally, it can be helpful to keep a damp cloth nearby to wipe the knife between cuts to ensure precision and prevent any sticking.

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How To Cut St Louis Style Ribs