Difference in Baby Back vs Spare Ribs?

[David]

I have been doing baby back ribs on the grill all summer since getting my Weber grill but haven't tried spare ribs. Is there a major difference in taste since they are cheaper?

 

[5280Duc]

Baby backs come from the top of the rib cage and are a more tender meat. Spare ribs come from the belly side of the rib cage and are a fattier tougher cut of rib. I would cook spare ribs longer at a lower temp to help them become more tender. Spare ribs also need a bit of butchering on top of removing the membrane like on baby backs. I`ve done both and personally I find baby backs easier and tastier. That being said you should try some spares and see what you think. Hope this helps, good luck! If you decide to try spares follow Bballbabys instuctions HERE He has a great tutorial.

 

[David]

I have been using the 3-2-1 method for the baby backs. Will spare ribs come out as tender using the same recipe?

 

[5280Duc]

I use the 3-2-1 also. I put some apple juice in a spray bottle and give em a good spritzing every hour for the first 3. When I put em in the foil for the next 2 I give a good spritzing again. Your ribs should be plenty tender with a good 6hr cook. I just put a couple of pork loins on the smoker myself, got about 4 hrs and its dinner time!!

 

[texas_stang]

I like the spare ribs. More meat

 

[Hot_Sauce]

I like the spare ribs. More meat

Me too:grin: But I wouldn't turn down any babybacks.