Beef ribs are a mouth-watering cut of meat that are perfect for any occasion. When cooked properly, they can be incredibly flavorful and tender. If you're looking to enjoy this delicious dish without going overboard on calories, the good news is that 1 piece of small end beef ribs (excluding refuse) yields 455 calories.

Aside from being tasty, beef ribs are also a great source of protein and other essential nutrients. In fact, a 3-ounce serving of beef ribs contains about 20 grams of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles.

In this article, we'll explore the different factors that make beef ribs a great choice, and provide some suggestions for how you can best prepare and serve them.

Calorie Count

As mentioned earlier, 1 piece of small end beef ribs (excluding refuse) yields 455 calories. While this may seem like a lot, it's important to remember that beef ribs are a rich source of protein and other essential nutrients. If you're looking to cut back on calories, consider trimming some of the fat before cooking. To reduce the calorie count even further, consider serving your beef ribs alongside plenty of fresh vegetables, which can help fill you up without adding additional calories.

Preparation Method

When it comes to cooking small end beef ribs, there are a few different methods that you can use. One of the most popular is roasting, which involves heating the ribs in the oven at a high temperature for an extended period of time. Alternatively, you can also grill your beef ribs for a smokier flavor. To do this, simply heat your grill to a high temperature and place the ribs on the grates, turning occasionally until they're fully cooked.

Type of Beef Ribs

When it comes to beef ribs, there are two main types to be aware of: back ribs and short ribs. Back ribs come from the rib section of the cow and are typically leaner than short ribs. Short ribs, on the other hand, come from the lower part of the cow and contain more fat and connective tissue. This can make them a bit more challenging to prepare, but they're also incredibly flavorful when cooked properly.

Grade of Beef

Beef is typically graded based on the amount of marbling (fat) within the meat. The higher the grade, the more fat there will be, which can impact both flavor and nutrition. When it comes to small end beef ribs, choice grade is a good choice. This grade contains a moderate amount of marbling, making it a good balance between flavor and nutrition.

Trimming Fat

To trim the fat from your beef ribs, start by using a sharp knife to cut away any visible fat on the surface of the meat. Be sure to remove as much fat as possible without removing too much of the meat. Another option is to cook your beef ribs on a rack that allows the fat to drip away during cooking. This can help reduce the overall fat content of the dish.

Serving Size

A typical serving size of small end beef ribs is around 3 ounces, which is roughly the size of a deck of cards. This should provide plenty of flavor and nutrition without going overboard on calories or fat. That being said, it's important to keep in mind that everyone's nutritional needs are different. If you're unsure how much to eat, consult with a registered dietitian.

Macronutrients

A 3-ounce serving of small end beef ribs contains roughly 20 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat, and 0 grams of carbohydrates. It also contains a variety of important vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. While the fat content may seem high, it's important to keep in mind that not all fat is created equal. Beef ribs contain both saturated and unsaturated fats, which can both have different effects on your body's health.

Micronutrients

In addition to being rich in protein, small end beef ribs are also a good source of zinc, iron, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are essential for a healthy body and can help reduce the risk of certain diseases. That being said, it's important to keep in mind that small end beef ribs should be consumed in moderation, as they can be high in calories and fat.

Health Benefits

Small end beef ribs are a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. They're also rich in important vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Additionally, small end beef ribs contain both saturated and unsaturated fats, which can both have different effects on your body's health. While saturated fat should be consumed in moderation, unsaturated fats can be beneficial for heart health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Serving Suggestions

One classic way to enjoy small end beef ribs is with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy. The rich flavor of the beef pairs perfectly with the creamy, buttery potatoes and savory gravy. Another option is to serve your beef ribs alongside a fresh garden salad or grilled vegetables. This can help balance out the richness of the dish while still providing plenty of flavor and nutrition.