An age-old culinary tradition, barbecuing is all about the anticipation, the mouth-watering aroma, and the smoky succulence of perfectly cooked meat. Among various delights, ribs have a special place. Deciding how many slabs of ribs to feed a crowd, though, can be a bit of a puzzle.
Feeding 20 or even 100 people is an ambitious task that requires careful calculation. On average, a single person would typically consume half a slab of ribs. Therefore, you would need 10 slabs for 20 people and 50 slabs for a gathering of 100.
Remember that these numbers can change based on various factors like the type of ribs, the appetites of your guests, and the variety of other dishes served alongside.
Basics of Serving Ribs
Serving ribs is an art in itself. From the selection of the meat to the preparation and final presentation, each step requires careful consideration.
Decoding the Types of Ribs
There are three main types of ribs, and each has its own unique characteristics.
Baby Back Ribs
Baby back ribs are taken from the top of the rib cage between the spine and the spare ribs. They are shorter, meatier, and leaner than spare ribs. Each slab typically contains 10-13 bones and can feed about two people.
Spare Ribs
Spare ribs come from the lower end of the ribs and are longer, flatter, and fattier than baby back ribs. A single slab usually has 11-13 bones. Spare ribs are generously sized and one slab can suffice for one very hungry individual or be shared between two average eaters.
St. Louis Style Ribs
St. Louis style ribs are essentially spare ribs with the tip cut off. They have a uniform rectangular shape which makes them a popular choice for BBQs. One slab is generally enough for one to two people.
Rib Servings: A General Guideline
As a general rule, for a main course, you should plan on half a slab (six ribs) per person, or one slab per person if the ribs are the main attraction and you have hearty eaters.
Calculating Ribs for a Crowd
Calculating the quantity of ribs for a crowd requires careful planning. It’s crucial to take into account the number of guests, the type of ribs, and the accompanying dishes.
Serving Ribs for 20 People
If you’re serving ribs to 20 people, consider the other items on your menu. If ribs are the main attraction and you’re dealing with hearty eaters, you’ll want to have a full slab per person. In that case, 20 slabs of ribs would suffice.
Considering Other Menu Items
If you’re serving other meat dishes alongside ribs, you can cut down the quantity of ribs. Typically, half a slab per person would be sufficient, leading you to need around 10 slabs of ribs.
Factoring in Rib Types
The type of ribs you choose can also affect the quantity. Baby back ribs are meatier, so you might need less compared to spare ribs.
Serving Ribs for 100 People
Serving ribs for a crowd of 100 is quite a task. The same principles apply as with a smaller crowd, but the quantities are larger.
Balancing Quantity and Quality
Remember, quality should not be compromised for quantity. If you’re expecting a big crowd, planning is key. Ensure that you have high-quality ribs and plenty of sides to fill up your guests.
Account for Individual Eating Habits
In such large gatherings, individual eating habits can significantly vary. Some might only nibble at a few ribs, while others might consume a whole slab. It’s safer to err on the side of caution and prepare a bit extra to avoid running out.
Essential Tips to Consider
When planning a rib feast, there are a few tips that could prove helpful.
Managing Leftovers
Anticipate leftovers. Ribs, when stored properly, can make a delicious meal the next day. It’s better to have more than to run out during the meal.
Pairing with Suitable Sides
Sides are key. They not only complement the flavor of your ribs but can also help in filling up your guests. Some popular sides for ribs include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and cornbread.
Adjusting for Special Dietary Requirements
Be aware of special dietary requirements. Some guests might not eat pork, while others may have specific dietary restrictions. It’s important to have options for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ribs are in a slab?
A slab of ribs typically contains between 10 to 13 bones.
What is the difference between baby back ribs and spare ribs?
Baby back ribs are shorter, meatier, and leaner than spare ribs. They come from the top of the rib cage between the spine and the spare ribs, while spare ribs come from the lower end.
How can I make sure I don’t run out of ribs?
To avoid running out, you can estimate one slab of ribs per person if the crowd is filled with hearty eaters or if ribs are the main attraction. It’s also a good idea to prepare extra, as leftovers can be used for meals the next day.
Conclusion
Being the host of a successful BBQ is about more than just serving delicious food. It’s about ensuring your guests are content and well-fed. Proper planning, precise calculation, and attention to detail can help you achieve this.
An essential part of any BBQ, ribs are crowd-pleasers. With some careful planning, you can easily decide how many slabs you’ll need, whether you’re feeding 20 or 100.
Finally, remember to relax and enjoy the process. After all, it’s not just about the food, but the joy and camaraderie of sharing a meal with friends and family.
