When it comes to delicious parts of a pig, many people often think of belly, spare ribs, or shoulder meat. However, there is one special part that is not very common but has food enthusiasts hunting for it – the meat along the lower ribs, also known as "diềm" ribs.

Diềm Ribs: The Ideal Meat of the Pig
The meat from the diềm ribs is located along the edge of the pig's belly, near the position of the spare ribs. Although called "ribs," it actually contains very little hard bone and is mostly made up of thin cartilage strips, crispy tendons, and soft lean meat in between. This unique structure creates a flavor and tenderness that other cuts of meat don’t have. Each pig only has a small strip of diềm ribs, so the supply on the market is relatively limited. That’s why housewives often have to go to the market early to get this cut of meat.

What makes diềm ribs special is its perfect tenderness. When bitten, it has a slight chewiness and a bit of crispness from the cartilage and tendons, but still retains its natural fattiness. It’s neither as dry as lean meat nor as greasy as fatty meat. When grilled, braised, or stir-fried, the gelatin in the cartilage and tendons is released, making the dish more velvety and appealing. Because of these reasons, diềm ribs often appear on the menus of barbecue restaurants, rice stalls, or family meals. Some popular cooking methods include grilling with salt and chili, stir-frying with lemongrass and chili, braising with pepper, making sour soup, or simmering in a broth.

Although it’s called "ribs," the price of this cut is usually higher than other types of ribs, ranging from 120,000 to 150,000 VND per kilogram. Depending on its freshness and where it’s sold, the price may vary, but overall, it’s not cheap.

Nutritional Value of Diềm Ribs
Not only is it popular for its taste, but this part of the meat also has significant nutritional value. First, the cartilage and tendons contain natural calcium that supports strong bones. Children in their developmental years, adults who need to maintain bone density, or people at risk of osteoporosis can all benefit from this source of calcium.

In addition, the collagen in the cartilage is another reason diềm ribs are highly regarded. Furthermore, this meat also contains phosphorus and many other essential micronutrients. These contribute to the functioning of the nervous system, improve immunity, and support energy metabolism in the body.

Although diềm ribs are rich in nutrients, you should not eat too much. Due to the high content of tendons and cartilage, frequent consumption can make it harder for the body to digest. For older adults, those with weak teeth, or people with stomach issues, it's better to prioritize cooking methods like slow braising or making soup for easier absorption. Also, don’t forget to combine it with vegetables and fruits to ensure a balanced meal without overloading the stomach.