how long to bake st louis ribs
The baking time for St. Louis-style ribs depends on several factors, including the temperature of your oven and whether you’re wrapping the ribs during baking. Here’s a basic guide for baking St. Louis ribs:
1. Low and Slow Method (Recommended for Tender Ribs)
- Oven Temperature: 275°F (135°C)
- Baking Time:
- Unwrapped: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. The ribs will be tender and slightly caramelized.
- Wrapped (in foil): Wrap ribs in foil after 2 hours of baking, then continue baking for another 30 minutes to 1 hour. This method results in very tender and fall-off-the-bone meat.
2. Higher Temperature Method (Faster Cooking)
- Oven Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
- Baking Time:
- Unwrapped: About 2 to 2.25 hours.
- Wrapped: Wrap after 1.5 hours and bake for another 30 minutes.
Additional Tips:
- Preparation: Always remove the membrane from the back of the ribs before baking for tender results. Season liberally with your favorite dry rub.
- Finishing: If you want a glaze, brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- Resting: Let the ribs rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting to allow the juices to redistribute.
If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
