Spareribs

What are Spareribs?  

Spareribs might just be the most popular BBQ meat in the Netherlands—and beyond. In BBQ-loving countries like (South) America and Australia, spareribs, or any ribs for that matter, have been a huge hit for years. And it’s no surprise! They’re the ultimate BBQ meat, versatile in every way. But spareribs haven’t always been this popular. In the past, ribs were considered a leftover pork product—not much meat and lots of bones. Who’d want that? Luckily, we know better now! Bones not only add tons of flavor, but they also ensure even cooking as they help conduct heat through the meat. Plus, there’s something satisfying about spending the day preparing delicious spareribs.

Baby Back Ribs vs. St. Louis Style Ribs  

Not every rack of pork ribs is what we call spareribs. This often leads to some confusion. The most commonly eaten spareribs in the Netherlands are loin ribs, called “baby back ribs” in the U.S. However, if you order spareribs in America, you’ll likely get belly ribs, known here as St. Louis Style ribs. St. Louis Style ribs are much meatier and sturdier. So, it’s worth keeping this difference in mind when ordering. Of course, all of our ribs are meaty and of top quality! We offer Ibérico ribs and LIVAR ribs, with the Ibérico variety being slightly fattier and boasting a distinct flavor.

Preparing Spareribs

Spareribs can be prepared in various ways, but the BBQ remains the most popular choice. They’re perfect for a low & slow BBQ session. The 3-2-1 method is perhaps the most well-known preparation technique—you can read more about it [here](#). But there are countless other ways to cook spareribs, and seasoned BBQ enthusiasts often have their own go-to methods. While many BBQ delivery services boil their spareribs first, we advise against it as it causes a significant loss of flavor and moisture. Instead, opt for a low & slow method, keeping the temperature below 100°C to retain the meat’s juices. Above this temperature, the moisture evaporates, which is exactly what you don’t want. What you do want is for the fat to gradually melt and spread through the meat. Fat begins to melt above 55°C, so staying in that range (or slightly higher) ensures beautifully tender and flavorful ribs.

Spareribs Recipes  

Cooking spareribs isn’t necessarily difficult, but it does require patience. All you really need is to stay home, as low & slow cooking only requires occasional attention. No wonder ribs have become so popular during this era of working from home! Low & slow is the new normal, and we hope it’s here to stay because we love it! For variety, you’ll find a range of spareribs recipes online. From Baby Back Ribs to St. Louis Style cooked in four different ways. How about trying a pumpkin spice rub? Or perhaps some chic ribs with truffle butter?  

You can find all the recipes on our [recipes page](#). Just type "ribs" in the search bar, and the best recipes will pop up. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media (and tag us). We’d love to see them!  

Ordering Spareribs: Which Ones Should You Choose?  

Any BBQ enthusiast knows that spareribs are among the most popular BBQ dishes in the Netherlands. The same goes for the U.S. if you include all rib varieties. Cooking spareribs or St. Louis Style ribs low & slow on the BBQ is a party in itself, and you can take it in any direction you like. If you opt for ribs from premium breeds like LIVAR, Mangalitza, or Ibérico, you’ll experience something extraordinary. Properly prepared, these ribs will leave you with the most tender, flavorful meat!  

Spareribs are naturally a bit fatty, so if you choose a fatty breed like Ibérico, you can expect rich, juicy ribs bursting with flavor. However, they will be fatty—an important detail to consider. For a slightly leaner option, LIVAR spareribs are a safer bet. They offer everything you’d want for delicious ribs: great origin, flavorful meat, and incredible tenderness. We’re proud to be an official dealer of this exceptional pork concept. Additionally, Mangalitza from Zuidwolde (naturally-raised woolly pigs) delivers particularly tasty meat. Choosing a quality pork breed is always a guarantee for better flavor.  

Ordering Spareribs Online

St. Louis Style ribs, meaty belly ribs, or just classic spareribs? When you order ribs online from The Butchery, the options are endless. Plus, our ribs come from incredible breeds like LIVAR, Ibérico, and Mangalitza—flavorful meat from animals that lived good lives. Ordering spareribs online is a breeze. Choose your preferred meat and breed, place your order, and we’ll handle the rest. If you order before 11:00, you can even receive your spareribs the same day (Monday to Friday). Delivery takes place between 17:00 and 22:00, and your order will arrive quick-frozen (frozen within an hour). This method preserves the meat’s flavor and texture optimally. You’ll receive the ribs frozen, so they can go straight into the freezer if needed. Online rib shopping made easy!  

Quick-Frozen Spareribs Delivery!  

At The Butchery, your spareribs are delivered quick-frozen for a reason. After receiving the meat, our Master Butchers perform a quality check and ensure everything is perfectly packaged. The spareribs are then individually wrapped, weighed, and labeled. Within an hour of processing, they go through a special freezing process at extremely low temperatures. This preserves all nutrients, flavor, and texture.  

When you order spareribs from us, your delivery is carefully packed in a box with an insulated bag and dry ice. This keeps your ribs perfectly frozen until they reach your door. And the best part? If you’re not cooking them right away, they can go straight into your freezer. Convenient, right?  

Ordering Spareribs Online  

It’s as easy as it gets. Choose your favorite ribs, place your order, and we’ll make sure they’re quick-frozen and delivered to your home. We deliver throughout the Netherlands!