Memphis-Style Barbecue

Memphis is also known as the Pork Barbecue Capital of the World. This barbecue style usually employs pork ribs and shoulders, although some restaurants still use chicken or beef. Dry rub ribs are typically seasoned with paprika and salt, giving them a rich red color, while wet ribs are usually brushed with a barbecue sauce.

Combined with smoke and heat, the ribs develop a range of complex flavors during the barbecue process. When consumed on its own, the meat is often accompanied by a sauce consisting of slightly sweet vinegar and tomatoes, but pork can also sometimes get chopped and inserted into buns with mustard, vinegar, and coleslaw.