Memphis BBQ vs. St. Louis BBQ

Attribute	Memphis BBQ	St. Louis BBQ
Meat	Pork ribs and pulled pork	Pork ribs and pork steaks
Sauce	Tomato and vinegar-based	Sweet and tangy tomato-based
Spices	Heavy use of dry rubs	Lighter use of dry rubs
Wood	Hickory and/or pecan	Maple and/or cherry
Serving style	Served with coleslaw and white bread	Served with baked beans and white bread

Introduction

Barbecue is a beloved culinary tradition in the United States, with different regions boasting their own unique styles and flavors. Two popular styles of barbecue are Memphis BBQ and St. Louis BBQ. While both are delicious in their own right, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the key differences between Memphis BBQ and St. Louis BBQ.

Flavor Profile

Memphis BBQ is known for its sweet and tangy flavor profile. The use of tomato-based sauces with a hint of vinegar gives Memphis BBQ a unique taste that is both savory and slightly acidic. On the other hand, St. Louis BBQ is characterized by a sweeter and smokier flavor. The use of molasses and brown sugar in the sauce gives St. Louis BBQ a rich and caramelized taste that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Meat Selection

When it comes to meat selection, both Memphis BBQ and St. Louis BBQ offer a variety of options. Memphis BBQ is famous for its pork ribs, which are typically slow-cooked and fall-off-the-bone tender. Pulled pork is another popular choice in Memphis, with the meat being smoked for hours until it is juicy and flavorful. St. Louis BBQ, on the other hand, is known for its pork steaks and pork shoulder. These cuts of meat are often grilled or smoked to perfection, resulting in a delicious and hearty meal.

Smoking Techniques

Smoking techniques play a crucial role in the flavor of both Memphis BBQ and St. Louis BBQ. In Memphis, the preferred wood for smoking is hickory, which imparts a strong and smoky flavor to the meat. The slow smoking process ensures that the meat is tender and infused with the rich aroma of hickory. St. Louis BBQ, on the other hand, often uses a mix of hickory and cherry wood for smoking. This combination creates a more subtle smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the sauce.

Sauce Varieties

One of the most noticeable differences between Memphis BBQ and St. Louis BBQ is the variety of sauces used. In Memphis, the most common sauce is a thick and tangy tomato-based sauce with a hint of vinegar. This sauce is often slathered on the meat before and after cooking, giving it a bold and zesty flavor. St. Louis BBQ, on the other hand, offers a wider range of sauces, including sweet and spicy options. Some popular St. Louis BBQ sauces include a sweet molasses-based sauce and a spicy vinegar-based sauce.

Serving Styles

Another distinguishing factor between Memphis BBQ and St. Louis BBQ is the serving style. In Memphis, BBQ is typically served "dry," meaning that the meat is seasoned with a dry rub and cooked without sauce. The sauce is served on the side for dipping, allowing diners to control the amount of sauce they prefer. St. Louis BBQ, on the other hand, is often served "wet," with the meat being generously coated in sauce before serving. This results in a saucier and more flavorful dish that is sure to satisfy any BBQ lover.

Conclusion

While both Memphis BBQ and St. Louis BBQ have their own unique attributes, one thing is for certain - they both offer a delicious and satisfying BBQ experience. Whether you prefer the sweet and tangy flavors of Memphis BBQ or the smoky and caramelized taste of St. Louis BBQ, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So next time you're craving some mouth-watering BBQ, consider trying both styles to see which one tickles your taste buds the most!