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Top Ribs Recipes

Here’s a compilation of the top ribs recipes around. I’m talking falling-off the bone tender, finger licking good ribs. Beef ribs, pork ribs, smoked, grilled, slow cooker, air fryer…this collection of recipes covers it all.

close up of smoked ribs on a plate next to bbq sauc

What Are Ribs?

Meat ribs are the ribcage of a domesticated animal that is butchered and cooked. While a lot of animals have edible ribs, this list focuses on the top ribs recipes for a pig (pork ribs) or cow (beef ribs). The majority of the ribs recipes here are for BBQ ribs. BBQ ribs are a staple at black cookouts and family gatherings across the country.

Other BBQ Collections

Pork vs Beef Ribs

Pork ribs are cut from hogs and beef ribs are cut from cattle. There are 3 types of pork ribs: baby back ribs, St. Louis ribs, and spare ribs. Beef ribs come in 2 cuts: back ribs or short ribs. Beef back ribs have the ribcage look that you find with pork ribs. Whether you cook pork ribs or beef ribs is up to you. Personally I find that pork ribs are more readily available at my local grocery store than beef ribs.

Removing The Membrane

Before you cook pork or beef ribs, it’s important to remove the membrane. The membrane is the thin layer of tissue that is attached to the underside of the rib. Removing the membrane is easy. Rinse & pat dry the ribs. Meat side down, take a butter knife and stick it between the membrane and the ribs. It should loosen fairy easily. Grab the membrane and simply pull it away. It should pull off fairly easily as well. 

Storing Leftover Ribs

When stored properly, leftover ribs will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer. I encourage to you see each individual recipe for the proper storing instructions.

Recipes To Serve With Ribs

How you serve ribs is ultimately up to you. Most people serve ribs with the typical cookout or BBQ side dishes.

Patti LaBelle’s Potato Salad

Fried Okra

Homemade Baked Beans

Southern Corn Salad

BBQ Tofu

 

Top Ribs Recipes