Pork Rib Cuts Explained

**chefdadomaha** · September 6th, 2010, 10:46 PM

BABY BACK RIBS
Other names - Back Ribs or Loin Ribs
Cut from the top most section of the rib, between the spine and the middle bend. Located just under the loin. The bones are between 6" and 3" long. A typical rack has around 10-14 bones.

ST. LOUIS RIBS
Other names - their is a Kansas City version the is the same but trimmed closer
Cut from the section just below the Baby Back but before the Rib Tip

SPARE RIB
Other names - Side Ribs
Cut of rib that includes the full St. Louis section and the Rib Tip

RIB TIPS
Other names St. Louis Tips, Spare Tips or Tips
Cut of rib locate on the end of the St. Louis sections, it is less of a rib bone, but a cartilage tip

FEATHERBONES
Other names - Flat Bones, Riblets, or Buttons
This is cut from the flat bones running just out side the spine

Chart of Rib Cuts

**Irishfan** · March 15th, 2011, 09:40 AM

That's good info. Thanks for posting.

**cliffcarter** · April 24th, 2011, 05:41 PM

Thought a couple of pics might be helpful-
St. Louis cut spare ribs-

Baby back ribs-

**Kitchen Witch** · April 24th, 2011, 07:33 PM

oh that looks so good!

**twowild** · May 27th, 2011, 07:34 PM

thank you for the great info..I always wondered what the difference was

Which is the best to buy ?

**Kitchen Witch** · May 28th, 2011, 06:41 AM

that would have to be a matter of choice - if making spareribs, add a rack of baby back nd see which you like better - I usually have to make spareribs, country ribs and boneless ribs to satisfy everyone