National Baby Back Rib Day

Young man with barbecue tongs, wearing a chef's apron, outdoor backyard scene with a mouthwatering display of baby back ribs.. — National baby back rib day illustration

Hey there rib lovers! Get ready to sink your teeth into some saucy history, because it's time to celebrate National Baby Back Rib Day!

When is Baby Back Rib Day?

It's national baby back rib day on the 2nd September.

The Delicious Origins of Baby Back Ribs

Are you ready for a finger-lickin' good time? Let's dive into the smoky and succulent history of baby back ribs. These tender slabs of goodness come from the upper part of pig's ribcage, right between the spine and spare ribs. They are called "baby back" ribs because they are shorter and smaller compared to their chunkier spare rib cousins.

The origins of baby back ribs trace back to the United States, where BBQ enthusiasts have been savoring their delectable meat since the early 19th century. Back then, these ribs were often deemed as less desirable cuts and were given to slaves or sold cheaply. But oh, how times have changed!

Nowadays, baby back ribs are a beloved centerpiece at backyard BBQs, Fourth of July parties, and restaurant menus across the country. The secret to their incredible tenderness lies in slow cooking or smoking techniques, paired with mouthwatering rubs and sticky BBQ sauces.

Get Saucy with Some Fun Facts

Did you know that baby back ribs are not only a crowd-pleaser, but they also have a funny side? Here's a rib-tickling fact for you: baby back ribs are often referred to as "slap yo' momma" ribs, thanks to their irresistibly delicious taste. Just be sure to resist the urge to slap anyone and instead focus on savoring every bite!

History behind the term 'Baby Back Rib'

1924

The Birth of Baby Back Ribs

The term 'baby back ribs' was born in 1924. These succulent ribs got their name from the smaller size of the cuts, as they are taken from the top of the ribcage, near the backbone, which is the smallest part of the ribcage. The meat is known for its tenderness and flavorful taste, making it a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts.

1975

Memphis Becomes the Baby Back Rib Capital

In 1975, Memphis, Tennessee, became synonymous with baby back ribs. The city embraced the slow-cook method and hickory smoke flavor, which produced ribs that were incredibly tender and had a finger-licking good taste. Memphis-style baby back ribs soon gained nationwide popularity as people started flocking to Memphis just to savor these mouthwatering delicacies.

1980

Baby Back Ribs Go Mainstream

By the 1980s, baby back ribs had become a mainstay on the menus of many restaurants and barbecues across the United States. The rise of popular chain restaurants and their inclusion of baby back ribs on their menus contributed to the widespread popularity. Baby back ribs were no longer just a regional specialty; they had become a national sensation, enjoyed by meat lovers everywhere.

1995

Baby Back Ribs in Pop Culture

The 1990s marked a period where baby back ribs reached new heights of fame in pop culture. In 1995, the famous jingle 'Chili's Baby Back Ribs' was released in a television commercial, instantly becoming an earworm for anyone who heard it. The catchy tune and repetition of the phrase made baby back ribs a household name and further cemented their place in American culinary history.