Pork ribs are sold in slabs. Each slab comes from a pig, which typically has 15-16 rib bones depending on the breed.
Here's a little more detail about how ribs are sold:
- Slabs: Pork ribs are commonly sold in full slabs, which include all the ribs from one side of the pig.
- Variations: While sold in slabs, the specific cut of ribs can vary. Common cuts include:
- Spare Ribs: These are taken from the belly side of the ribs and are typically meatier.
- Baby Back Ribs: These are taken from the top side of the rib cage and are generally shorter and leaner.
- St. Louis Style Ribs: This is a specific cut of spare ribs where the hard cartilage and sternum bone have been removed making them a more uniform slab.
- Packaging: Slabs of ribs are usually packaged in vacuum-sealed plastic or wrapped in butcher paper to maintain freshness.
- Where to Buy: You can purchase pork ribs at:
- Grocery stores
- Butcher shops
- Meat markets
It's good to note that the number of ribs in a slab remains consistent, and the differences in rib types stem from the location of the cut and how much meat it contains.
