St. Louis-style ribs typically have approximately 12 bones per slab.
Understanding St. Louis Ribs
St. Louis-style ribs are a specific cut of spare ribs. The process involves trimming the brisket bone and cartilage, resulting in a more uniform, rectangular shape. This makes them popular for grilling and smoking due to their even cooking and presentation.
Bone Count
- According to Sweet Baby Ray's, St. Louis ribs, specifically the "2-and-down" variety (meaning they weigh no more than 2 pounds per slab), usually have around 12 bones per slab.
Factors Affecting Bone Count
While 12 bones are a good average, the exact number can vary slightly based on:
- The size of the hog: Larger hogs may yield ribs with slightly more or larger bones.
- Butchering techniques: Small variations in the trimming process can sometimes affect the final bone count.
- Rib selection: Rib slabs can vary in overall size and bone density.
St. Louis Rib Characteristics
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cut | Spare Ribs, trimmed of brisket bone and cartilage |
| Bone Count | Approximately 12 per slab (specifically for "2-and-down" STL ribs) |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Common Usage | Grilling, Smoking |
| Reference | Sweet Baby Ray's |
