If you are curious how pork rib tips vs riblets compare to one another, look no further because we discuss all there is to know about the two! Both pork rib tips and riblets are tasty meaty morsels perfect for snacking at any BBQ, but how do you know which to choose? We're here to help you make an informed decision on whether rib tips or riblets are for you!
What's The Difference Between Pork Rib Tips vs Pork Riblets?
The terms 'rib tips' and 'riblets' are often used interchangeably, but they are two different cuts of pork. Both are incredibly delicious and make a wonderful appetizer at any backyard BBQ, but how do you know which to choose out of the two?
Once considered 'butcher scraps', both have been recognized for their incredible flavor and have grown in popularity through the years. With the information below you can make an informed decision on which to choose at your butcher the next time you pick up some pork!
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What Are Pork Rib Tips?
The rib tips are the meaty bits at the lower end of pork spare ribs that are trimmed away to make St. Louis style ribs. They are usually about 8-12 inches in length and 1-3 inches wide.
Rib tips do not include bone, but there is a piece of thick cartilage you will have to work around.
What Are Pork Riblets?
Riblets are what is left when a butcher removes the rounded end from a slab of rib bones. This is usually done for easier cooking and to improve presentation. They are the short, flat pieces that are left once the curved portion is trimmed away.
Riblets have a little bit of bone in each bite (think tiny ribs). Other than BBQ, these bite-sized rib pieces are also frequently found in Asian cooking!
What Do Rib Tips And Riblets Taste Like?
Rib tips and riblets are flavorful and tender just like pork ribs. The rib tips are extra flavorful because they are closer to the belly of the pig. This means they are fattier and more heavily marbled.
The extra fat keeps riblets nice and juicy despite being cooked for long periods of time.
Choosing Between Rib Tips And Riblets
Both rib tips and riblets are delicious and perfect for low and slow BBQ cooking. In fact, you can generally substitute rib tips for riblets in a recipe and vice versa.
The choice comes down to your personal preference and what you have available to you. Your recipe will turn out absolutely delicious no matter what you choose!
Try out my delicious BBQ baked pork rib tips and see why they're sure to be a new personal favorite for you too!
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