Country style pork ribs, also sometimes called country-style ribs, are a cut of pork that comes from the blade end of the loin close to the pork shoulder. They are meatier than spare ribs and contain a bit of loin meat along with rib bone. While country style ribs do contain rib bones, they are not exactly the same as spare ribs or baby back ribs. They have a slightly different texture and flavor. So while country style pork ribs do go by that particular name, there are a few other names used to refer to this cut of pork as well.
Other Names for Country Style Pork Ribs
Here are some other names used to refer to country style pork ribs:
- Boneless country style ribs – This refers to country style ribs that have had the bones removed before cooking. It leaves just the meaty portion.
- County ribs – This shortened version of the name is sometimes used.
- High ribs – This refers to ribs from high up on the hog near the loin area.
- Loin ribs – Since they contain loin meat, these ribs are sometimes called loin ribs.
- Shoulder ribs – The rib section is close to the shoulder, so shoulder ribs is an apt name.
- New York cut ribs – This name refers to the fact that country style ribs came into popularity in New York. The butchers there discovered the cut and began promoting it.
So while country style pork ribs is the most common and widely used name for this cut of pork, it does go by several other monikers as well. All refer to the same basic cut – a meaty rib section from the pork loin near the shoulder.
Where Country Style Ribs are Cut From on the Pig
To understand why country style pork ribs go by several different names, it helps to visualize exactly where this cut comes from on the pig.
There are different primal cuts on a pig – large sections where the pig is initially broken down during butchering. These include:
- Shoulder
- Loin
- Side/belly
- Leg
The country style rib comes specifically from the area where the shoulder primal cut and the loin primal cut meet. It is taken from the blade end of the loin, very close to the shoulder. This is toward the front of the pig, upper chest area.
This region contains a good amount of high quality loin meat as it transitions into the shoulder area. There are rib bones that run through this section as well. Country style pork ribs utilize both the meat and bone elements from this part of the pig.
It differs from spare ribs which come solely from the belly/side primal further back and baby back ribs which come from the loin primal center. This helps explain why the names loin ribs and shoulder ribs are both accurate descriptions for cuts labeled country style pork ribs.
Why the Name Country Style Ribs?
The preparation method commonly associated with country style pork ribs is slow cooking and braising dishes. The ribs become very tender and flavorful prepared low and slow. This style of down home country cooking is where the name country style ribs was derived from. While they can certainly be prepared in other ways, the cut gained fame specifically for its versatility as country cooking ribs.
History
Country style ribs came into popularity during the 1960s and 70s. They were lesser known before this time period. Butchers discovered the meaty cut and began promoting it as a budget friendly alternative to other more expensive pork cuts. The preparation method of slow cooked country recipes enhanced the inexpensive ribs into a delicious dish.
Flavor
The meat on country style ribs has a slightly different look and taste than spare ribs. Since they contain loin meat, the texture is a bit finer than ribs from the side of the belly. The flavor is sweeter and more mild than spare ribs as well. This suits braised pork dishes and inspired the country style moniker.
Common Ways to Cook Country Style Pork Ribs
Here are some of the most common preparation methods for country style pork ribs:
Slow Roasted
Roasting the ribs low and slow helps break down tissue while keeping them incredibly moist and juicy. Spices and sauces are sometimes added for flavor.
Braised
Braising in liquid is ideal for country ribs. The long cook time gives connective tissue time to break down while keeping them fall-off-the-bone tender.
Grilled
Country style ribs hold up very well on the grill. Marinades can infuse big flavors. Lower heat is best to avoid drying them out.
Smoked
A smoker or smoke flavor pairs perfectly with pork. Keep temps low for tender smoked country pork ribs.
Stewed
Stewing the ribs in soups, chilis, and braising liquid brings out their tender, juicy potential.
Nutrition Facts for Country Style Pork Ribs
Here is the nutrition breakdown for 3 ounces of country style pork ribs:
| Calories | 221 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
Country style pork ribs are a high protein choice with some healthy fats. As with most pork, the saturated fat content is a bit elevated. But the ribs can still fit into a balanced diet in moderation.
Cost Savings of Country Style Pork Ribs
One of the benefits of country style pork ribs is they are very budget friendly. Here are some average prices compared to other popular cuts of pork:
| Cut of Pork | Average Price per Pound |
|---|---|
| Country style ribs | $3.99 |
| Baby back ribs | $7.99 |
| Spare ribs | $6.49 |
| Pork chops | $7.99 |
| Pork loin roast | $8.49 |
Country style ribs provide a substantial savings over other popular pork options. The less well known cut allows consumers to enjoy delicious pork ribs at a budget friendly rate.
Selecting Quality Country Style Pork Ribs
When purchasing country style pork ribs, here are some tips for selecting quality pieces:
- Look for ribs with lots of meat and minimal fat trim
- See that the ribs have their membrane removed for easier eating
- Choose ribs that are pinkish red without discoloration
- Make sure the cut is from the blade end loin near the shoulder
- Find thick, meaty ribs over very thin bony pieces
- For bone-in, select ribs with a straight shape vs very curved
- Feel for ribs that are slightly firm but have some bend
- Avoid ribs with an overly bright color as this could indicate enhanced pork
Getting country style ribs from a trusted butcher or meat market is advisable over generic grocery store packs. This helps ensure you get properly cut, fresh, high quality ribs.
How to Store Country Style Pork Ribs
Raw country style pork ribs should be stored properly to maintain safety and quality. Here are some storage tips:
- Place raw ribs in the coldest part of the refrigerator, not the door
- Use ribs within 3-5 days for peak freshness
- Wrap in plastic wrap, butcher paper, or place in airtight bags/containers
- Freeze for longer term storage up to 4-6 months
- To freeze, wrap well and remove as much air as possible
- Never thaw frozen ribs at room temperature, keep refrigerated
- Avoid cross contamination by keeping raw pork away from other foods
Conclusion
While country style pork ribs go by their common name, they do have several other monikers as well. All refer to the same cut from the blade end of the pork loin near the shoulder. Providing a budget friendly way to enjoy tasty pork ribs, country style ribs have grown in popularity over the years. Their versatility for slow cooking methods gives them a tender and flavorful appeal.