Spare Ribs vs. Baby Backs

East Cobb Eggy

Went to the grocer to pick up something for dinner and really wanted some ribs.

The baby backs were pretty expensive, therefore I went for the spare ribs.

I was gonna cook these using the same 3-1-1 method for baby backs, but realize that I might need to extend some of the times.

Any advice?

Greg

FlaMike

I usually do spares. I don't foil, just let em cook till they're done. Last batch took 7 hrs. Usually 5-6. I do however, spritz them with apple juice/cider vinegar combo about 2 hrs in, and again about 2 hrs later. I just think they're meatier and tastier. Either way, ribs are always goooood.

East Cobb Eggy

Mike,

Thanks for the advice.

Sounds like I should definitely plan for a longer cook compared to baby backs.

.... but it sounds like the product will be great.

:woohoo: :woohoo:

Thanks again,
Greg

vidalia1

I do foil mine...I cook them for 2 hours at 300 degrees...then I foil them for 1 1/2-2 hours with brown sugar & butter also at 300 degrees...i take them out of the foil and put over the coals for 10-15 minutes with sauce....

DynaGreaseball

You could try St Louis Ribs. They still cook a little longer than regular baby backs. It think they have a little more meat on them too.

Here's a video link if you want see how to make St Louis Ribs from Spares.

click here

Jeffersonian

I do 3-1-1 with spares and I'm very happy with the results. I do have to be careful of the foil stage, so they don't get mushy, but it tends to be 45 minutes to an hour.

Ready for foil


Pulled, with sauce

Beanie-Bean

Greg,

Go ahead and trim the spares St. Louis style--there are a few videos on the web I checked out before attempting some of those. thirdeye's site has some good info as well.

I've done the ribs 3-1-1 with a bit of tweaking the last hour, depending on how much the ribs are bending. Also, I'll just use the DigiQ withe the pit probe only, since I don't read the temps on ribs.

You'll be pleasantly surprised how nice the ribs turn out compared with baby backs. They're a bit more work to get prepared, but it's really worth it!

Car Wash Mike

I'd go about 3 1/2 before foiling.



Mike

East Cobb Eggy

That is exactly what I did.... Thanks for the advice.

They really turned out well.

Greg