Memphis Style Barbecue

Memphis Style BBQ

Memphis BBQ is in a league of its own. Memphis locals favor their style over all the other major barbecue styles. The author is from Alabama (which has its own style) but certainly likes Memphis style ribs over all other types.  Check out Barbecue at Its Best for a general overview of different barbecue styles.

Memphis is famous for its dry rub ribs (another favorite of the author) typically applied to whole racks of pork ribs or pulled pork. The preferred cut of ribs among most Memphis restaurants is baby back ribs. Often a selection of pork spare ribs is available on the menu, but if ribs are listed with no specifics, you will be served a rack of baby back ribs.
Wet Ribs vs. Dry Ribs
Unsuspecting visitors to Memphis, will often be asked by a server  if they want their ribs served wet or dry. Most newbies to Memphis barbecue find this to be a strange question.  Other regions always sauce their ribs during cooking, when finishing and serving. The locals almost always order ribs dry (and that is how they are served if not specified). Dry rub ribs are coated with a generous amount of a dry spiced barbecue rub. Typical ingredients in the Memphis style dry rub are:

• Paprika
• Chili Powder
• Cayenne Pepper
• Salt
• Black Pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic Powder
• Cumin
• Coriander

Rarely will you find a sweet Memphis style dry rub.

Do not get me wrong about ribs in Memphis. Even the standard of dry ribs are served with sauce on the side. Memphis style sauce is typically a red barbecue sauce from a tomato base. Other ingredients include apple cider vinegar and a long list of spices included in the rub above. A typical Memphis sauce is tangy with some spice, but not too hot. Most restaurants offer a ‘hot’ version of their sauce.

Check out the links below to learn more about Memphis BBQ or get your hands on some world famous Rendezvous Rub and Sauce.

One interesting treat that is unique to Memphis are barbecue Tamales. Imagine your typical tamale, but these are filled with leftover bbq pork or beef brisket. Tamales are wrapped Mexican style in corn husks, placed in an iron skillet and put in the smoker. Served with barbecue sauce on the side. An amazing product.

Another dish that the author has only seen on menus at Memphis BBQ joints is barbecue spaghetti.  Imagine your typical spaghetti recipe but instead of beef or meatballs, add leftover barbecue pulled pork.

Next time you visit Memphis, order a rack of ribs, dry with sauce on the side, and an order of tamales for an appetizer.

You will be thrilled at the outcome.

Lastly, Memphis is home to one of the most prestigious barbecue competitions in the world.  Memphis in May is a month long celebration during the entire month of May.  Many liken this festival to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, just a bit more family friendly.  For the true barbecue enthusiast, Memphis is May is definitely a item to be put on your bucket list.