Rib Membrane

Wardster

Is it best to remove the membrane from baby back ribs before they are cooked? Does it make a difference? Wish I was at the fest, but alas, I'm doing the next best thing....
I don't even know if anyone is out there to answer my question....

BBQfan1

Wardster, I think you would find 90-95% of folks would say to remove it (seperate the rib and the membrane by slipping a knife under the membrane and prying upwards, grab the loosened piece of membrane with other hand with a paper towel in it for better grip and pull up and away. May come in a couple pieces or, if lucky and good, one big sheet). Some say the membrane should be left on to keep moisture/juices in and that in a good low and slow bbq cook, as opposed to a boil job, the membrane will dissolve during the cooking process rather than become that tough barrier we have come to hate.
I'm in with the majority on this one; I remove the membrane.
Qfan

Car Wash Mike

Wardster, As usuall, I'm a day late on Eggfest. I'll be in Atlanta Monday. I just pulled the membrane off 3 slabs for dinner. I think it is always better that way.[p]CWM

Trout Bum

Big Daddy,
Wops, I hit return or something and it posted before I commented.
Yes, take off the membrane. Start it at a corner with a knife, etc. and then pull it off with a paper towel for gripping.
B D

Kelly Keefe

Wardster,[p]Personally, I think it's a matter of taste. I leave it on because I kind of like tearing it off with my teeth when munching on the ribs. (And I bet THAT conjures up all sorts of "interesting" mental images, doesn't it? Grin!) I understand that leaving the membrane on in competative grilling is considered on a par equal to the provebial you know what in a punch bowl though. My 2 cents worth.[p]Kelly Keefe
Jefferson City, MO