Beef ribs are a popular dish, perfect for a hearty and delicious meal. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's important to know that 1 piece (excluding refuse) of beef ribs, trimmed to 1/8" fat, select grade, cooked, and broiled, contains 865 calories. While this may seem high, it's possible to enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
In addition to the calories, beef ribs also contain various nutrients. One serving of beef ribs has 51.9g of protein, 8.04g of carbohydrates, and 1.32g of dietary fiber. Additionally, it has numerous minerals and vitamins such as calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, and vitamin B-12.
If you're looking for a way to cook beef ribs, there are plenty of options to choose from. Of course, you can always grill or broil them, but you can also slow-cook them in the oven or on the stovetop. The key is to cook them low and slow, so they become tender and flavorful. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just for a weeknight dinner, beef ribs are a great choice.
Calories in Beef Ribs
As mentioned earlier, beef ribs contain a significant number of calories, with one serving (1 piece, excluding refuse) containing 865 calories. This high calorie count is due to the fat content present in the meat. Beef ribs are, therefore, not recommended for individuals on a strict calorie-restricted diet. However, it's possible to enjoy them in moderation as an occasional treat. If you're looking to reduce the calorie content of beef ribs, you can try trimming the fat further or choosing a leaner cut of meat. You can also opt for smaller portions or pair your beef ribs with a side of vegetables to balance out your meal.
Total Fat Content
Beef ribs contain a moderate amount of total fat, with one serving (1 piece, excluding refuse) containing 65.38g of fat. However, not all fat is created equal. Beef ribs contain both saturated and unsaturated fat, with saturated fat being the predominant type. Saturated fat is a type of unhealthy fat that can raise your cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease. To reduce the total fat content of beef ribs, you can choose to trim the visible fat from the meat or choose a leaner cut of meat. You can also avoid adding any additional fat during the cooking process, like butter or oil.
Protein Content
Beef ribs are an excellent source of protein, with one serving (1 piece, excluding refuse) containing 51.9g of protein. Protein is an essential macronutrient that helps build and repair tissues in the body. It's especially important for individuals who engage in regular physical activity, as it helps with muscle recovery and growth. While beef ribs are a good source of protein, it's important to note that they are not the only source. You can also get protein from other animal-based foods, like chicken, fish, and eggs, as well as plant-based foods, like beans and tofu.
Sodium Content
Beef ribs contain a moderate amount of sodium, with one serving (1 piece, excluding refuse) containing 622mg of sodium. Sodium is an essential mineral that helps regulate fluid balance in the body. However, consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. To reduce the sodium content of beef ribs, avoid adding any additional salt during the cooking process. You can also choose to rinse the meat before cooking to reduce the sodium content.
Cholesterol Content
Beef ribs contain a significant amount of cholesterol, with one serving (1 piece, excluding refuse) containing 196mg of cholesterol. Cholesterol is a type of fat that's found in animal-based foods, and it's essential for many bodily functions. However, consuming too much cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease. To reduce the cholesterol content of beef ribs, you can choose to trim the visible fat from the meat or choose a leaner cut of meat. You can also limit your intake of other high-cholesterol foods throughout the day, like eggs and cheese.
Carbohydrates Content
Beef ribs contain a small amount of carbohydrates, with one serving (1 piece, excluding refuse) containing 8.04g of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an essential macronutrient that provides the body with energy. However, too many carbohydrates can lead to weight gain and other health problems. To limit your carbohydrate intake when consuming beef ribs, pair them with non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower instead of starchy sides like potatoes or rice.
Vitamin and Mineral Content
Beef ribs contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. One serving (1 piece, excluding refuse) contains calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, and vitamin B-12. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, while iron helps transport oxygen throughout the body. Magnesium is necessary for muscle and nerve function, and phosphorus helps build strong bones and teeth. Potassium helps regulate fluid balance in the body, while selenium supports immune function. Vitamin B-12 is essential for proper brain and nervous system function.
Health Benefits
Consuming beef ribs can have several health benefits, including providing the body with essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, protein can help with muscle growth and recovery, making beef ribs a great post-workout meal. However, it's important to consume beef ribs in moderation due to their high calorie and fat content. To make them healthier, choose a leaner cut of meat, and add plenty of non-starchy vegetables to your plate.
Cooking Tips
To cook beef ribs, there are several methods you can use, depending on your preferences. Traditionally, beef ribs are grilled or broiled to create a delicious char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. However, you can also slow-cook them in the oven or on the stovetop. The key is to cook them low and slow to prevent the meat from becoming tough. If grilling or broiling, marinate the meat beforehand to add some extra flavor. If slow-cooking, try adding some vegetables like onions and carrots to the pot for added nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Beef ribs pair well with a variety of sides, making them a versatile dish to serve. Some classic side dishes include baked beans, coleslaw, mac and cheese, and corn on the cob. For a healthier option, try pairing your beef ribs with roasted or grilled vegetables, like asparagus or zucchini. You can also serve beef ribs in different ways, such as in a sandwich or as part of a taco or burrito bowl. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
"I have learned to enjoy the rich and hearty flavor of beef ribs, but in moderation. When prepared with care, beef ribs can be a delicious part of a healthy diet."
FAQs About Cooked, Broiled Beef Ribs
1. How many servings does 1 lb of raw beef ribs make?
It depends on the size of the ribs and how much meat is on them, but on average, 1 lb of raw beef ribs will yield about 1 piece (excluding refuse).
2. How many calories are in 1 piece of cooked, broiled beef ribs?
There are 865 calories in 1 piece (excluding refuse) of cooked, broiled beef ribs that are trimmed to 1/8" fat and of select grade.
3. Is select grade beef a good choice for beef ribs?
Select grade beef is a decent choice for beef ribs as it is still a good quality of meat, but it is not as high in marbling (fat) as choice or prime grade. This means it may be slightly less tender but lower in fat content.
4. What is the best way to cook beef ribs?
The best way to cook beef ribs is to slow cook them on a grill or in the oven until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. This method allows the fat to render and the flavors to meld together for a delicious result.
5. Are beef ribs a healthy choice?
Beef ribs, like most meat, can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and paired with a variety of other nutrient-dense foods. However, they are high in calories and fat, so it's important to keep portion sizes in mind and choose leaner cuts of meat when possible.