Pork ribs are a favorite ingredient for many people, whether they are braised or soured, steamed or stewed to make delicious dishes. However, are you clear?Pork ribs are not simply an ingredient, but include front, middle and back rows, each with its own characteristics in terms of texture and suitable cooking style.
If you are not familiar enough with the distinction and selection of pork ribs, you are likely to buy unsatisfactory or even loss-making products. So, when buying pork ribs, which one should you pay attention to?What is the difference between the front row and the back row?This article will give you a detailed introduction to help you know when buying and avoid losing money.
How do you tell where the front, middle and back rows are?
First of all, we should understand that ribs refer to the whole rib cage from the neck to the tail of the pig, which usually includes 14 pairs, and some breeds even have 15 to 17 pairs. These ribs can be divided into front, middle, and back rows depending on their position. So, what are the characteristics of each of them?
The front row of the ribs, near the neck of the pig, usually 6 to 7 pairs, is irregularly shaped, the bones are elongated, containing a large amount of cartilage and brittle bones, the meat is tender but small, and the fat and lean meat are evenly proportioned, neither too fat nor too lean. Due to the dense distribution of capillaries, the front row is darker in color.
The middle row refers to the ribs located between the front row and the back row, usually each bone has 2 to 3 pairs, the shape is uniform, the bones are relatively thick, the meat is tender, the amount of meat is moderate, neither too fat nor too thin, it is the best ribs, but also the most expensive variety. The color of the middle row is relatively light, because of its sparse capillary distribution.
The back rows in the ribs are called the "back eight" because they are close to the pig's tail and usually have 8 pairs. They have a regular shape, "straight line", large bones, rich bone marrow, and slightly rough flesh, but they are the most fleshy parts. The fat and lean meat are evenly distributed, which is suitable for those who like meat. Due to the less capillary distribution, the color of the back row is also relatively light.
When buying ribs at the wet market, sometimes the butcher will ask you if you want the front row or the back row, and they may cut it directly for you. So how do you tell the difference?It's actually very simple, just look at the shape of the bone. The bones of the anterior row are elongated and contain many flat cartilages;The bones in the back row are large and contain many round bone marrows;The bones in the middle row fall somewhere in between, with relatively uniform length and thickness.
Do you prefer the front, middle, or back?
Once we understand the difference between the front, middle and back rows, we are able to choose the right ribs according to our individual needs and preferences. Ribs in different positions are suitable for different cooking methods, and choosing the wrong one may affect the taste and effect.
Next, we'll take a look at what to do with the ribs in the front, middle, and back rows. First of all, for the ribs in the front row, the meat is tender and the bones are easy to remove, which is suitable for making dishes such as braised braised ribs, sweet and sour and steamed, which can keep the meat tender and the bones crisp, while avoiding overcooking.
The front row of pork ribs can be used to cook soup, but the time needs to be carefully controlled to avoid loose meat and muddy soup. Compared with the back row of ribs, the ** of the front row is usually more affordable and cost-effective.
Secondly, the tender meat quality and well-proportioned shape make the medium ribs the highest quality and most expensive variety. Whether it is braised or sour, steamed, stewed soup or stir-fried, you can make a delicious dish with the help of medium pork ribs, and the finished shape is eye-catching and mouth-watering.
The middle ribs in the ribs are often difficult to buy and sometimes need to be booked in advance or purchased with the front and back rows. If you have the opportunity to get medium ribs, be sure to cherish them. In contrast, the back ribs are slightly dry and hard, but they have the richest amount of meat and the highest bone marrow content, which is perfect for soups, which can be stewed to create a rich soup, and the feeling of eating meat is very pleasant.
Not only are the back ribs suitable for cooking other dishes, but care should be taken not to cook too short, otherwise the meat will not be fully cooked. In addition, you need to add more seasoning to add flavor and tenderness. Normally, the ** of the rear row ribs is slightly higher than the front row, but it is cheaper than the middle row and the cost performance is moderate.
In a nutshell. Through the elaboration of this article, I believe you have a deeper understanding of ribs, how to distinguish and choose the front, middle and back rows, as well as their respective suitable cooking methods. The next time you buy ribs, you'll be able to choose the right ribs for your needs and tastes, and cook a delicious meal that will satisfy you and your family.
Of course, if you have the opportunity to buy the middle row, it is even more ideal. The middle rib is the finest rib and the most expensive. It can create a variety of delicious effects, and the finished product has an enticing and mouth-watering appearance.
No matter what kind of ribs you're buying, you should pay attention to hygiene and safety. Always choose fresh ribs and wash them thoroughly to ensure they are cooked thoroughly to avoid food poisoning or illness. In addition, it is also necessary to control the portion size when eating and avoid excessive intake.
Delicious ribs are tempting, but they are high in fat and cholesterol, and excessive intake can lead to obesity or cardiovascular disease. Only by maintaining healthy eating habits can you enjoy food to the fullest. May you enjoy your food while maintaining good health.
Pork ribs