What distinguishes 'wet' ribs from 'dry' ribs?

The distinction between 'wet' ribs and 'dry' ribs primarily lies in the style of seasoning and the way they are served. Wet ribs are typically coated in a sauce, either during cooking or just before serving, which adds moisture and enhances the flavor profile. This sauce often has a tomato or vinegar base and can vary widely in sweetness, spice, and overall flavor. In contrast, dry ribs are seasoned with a dry rub—an herb and spice mixture applied before cooking—without the addition of sauce. This allows for the natural flavors of the meat to shine and results in a different taste experience.

Understanding this distinction helps in recognizing the culinary techniques involved in preparing different types of ribs, as well as the preferences of diners when it comes to barbecue styles. The other aspects like the type of meat, cooking duration, or texture may vary widely within both categories but do not fundamentally define whether the ribs are classified as wet or dry.