Spare Pork Rib Vs Loin Back Rib: What’s The Difference?
When people think of barbecue, they usually picture pork ribs.
This is because spare ribs are most often the type served at restaurants and other eateries that specialize in barbecue meats.
However, there is another option: pork loin back ribs.
This article will help you determine whether you should make a dish using pork loin back ribs or spare ribs for your next BBQ party!
What are pork loin back ribs?
Pork loin back ribs (also known as baby back ribs) are a type of pork rib cut that is located on the underside of the pig.
It has a consistent shape and size but may vary in thickness.
They come from a pig’s rib cage, and they’re meatier than other cuts of pork because they don’t have as much bone in them.
A whole slab is usually about two pounds or one kilogram and can feed up to four people if you serve it on the bone with some sauce slathered on top.
What are spare ribs?
Spare ribs come from the belly of the pig where they have more fat that gives them their delicious flavor.
Spare ribs are a popular dish in the Southern United States and can be found at many barbecue restaurants.
They are most commonly served as an appetizer or entrée with sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, mashed potatoes, and gravy.
The meat is marinated in a sauce before being cooked by boiling it until tender enough to eat off the bone.
What are the differences between pork loin back ribs vs spare ribs?
Pork loin back ribs and spare ribs are both great for a BBQ.
However, they have some key differences due to the different parts of where they were taken.
| Pork loin back ribs | Spare ribs | |
| Animal’s part | From the top of the rib cage between the spine and the spare ribs, after the loin meat is removed | Taken from the belly side of the rib cage, below the section of back ribs |
| Fat content and texture | Lean and have more meat Tender meat | Fattier and have more bone Chewer and have more connective tissues |
| Shape and appearance | More uniform and have darker meat | Vary in size and thickness, curved shape |
| Price | Higher due to the less fat content | Cheaper |
| Cuisine | More popular in Western cuisine | More popular in Asian cuisine |
What are the similarities between pork loin back ribs vs spare ribs?
Despite some differences between pork loin back ribs and spare ribs, these two kinds of pork ribs share some similarities, listed below:
They are both great for BBQs
Either pork loin back ribs or spare ribs can be greatly substituted with each other when it comes to a barbecue.
As long as you well-marinate the meat before grilling, and keep your eyes on the cooking time, you will have a succulent BBQ experience.
Which one is better?
| Product Comparison | Pork Loin Back Ribs, (6 Lb. Average) | Niman Ranch Pork Spareribs, St. louis Style, 2.75 lb |
| Product Image |  |  |
| Latest Price | Check Current Price | Check Current Price |
Although spare ribs are more common, both types of ribs have their own benefits.
If you’re looking for a leaner option that’s easier to make and won’t leave your guests feeling as stuffed after eating them, pork loin back ribs may be the way to go!
Pork loin back ribs also tend to cook faster than other kinds of rib cuts.
Whether you decide on one or the other will depend largely on what type of BBQ dish you plan to prepare—just remember there are multiple options available when it comes time to choose which kind of rib meat is best for your next barbecue party!