Preparing pork ribs, specifically St. Louis-style, within a conventional oven allows for controlled and consistent cooking, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. This method involves trimming the rib slab, applying a dry rub, and slowly baking it at a low temperature. The objective is to render the fat and connective tissue, leading to a desirable texture.
Oven cooking provides advantages such as temperature stability, preventing scorching or uneven doneness. The contained environment facilitates moisture retention, leading to a juicier final product compared to open-flame grilling. This approach is particularly beneficial for those lacking outdoor cooking facilities or seeking a more hands-off method.