Table of Contents

How to Buy Prime Rib

Prime rib is a delicious and tender cut of beef that is perfect for special occasions. But how do you choose the best prime rib for your meal? Here are some tips to help you buy prime rib like a pro.

• Choose the right grade. Prime rib comes in three grades: prime, choice, and select. Prime is the highest quality and has the most marbling, which makes it juicy and flavorful. Choice is slightly lower in quality but still very good. Select is the lowest grade and has the least marbling, which makes it dry and tough. For the best results, go for prime or choice grade prime rib.
• Choose the right size. Prime rib is sold by the number of ribs, usually ranging from two to seven. Each rib serves about two people, so you can estimate how much you need based on the number of guests. For example, if you have eight people, you can buy a four-rib roast. You can also ask your butcher to cut the roast to your desired size.
• Choose the right type. Prime rib comes in two types: bone-in and boneless. Bone-in prime rib has the ribs attached to the meat, which gives it more flavor and helps it cook evenly. Boneless prime rib has the ribs removed, which makes it easier to carve and serve. Both types are good, but bone-in prime rib is more traditional and impressive.

Now that you know how to buy prime rib, you can enjoy this succulent roast for your next celebration. Bon appetit!

How to Cook Prime Rib

Cooking prime rib is not difficult, but it does require some attention and care. Here are the basic steps to cook prime rib:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Season your prime rib generously with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you like. You can also rub it with some oil or butter for extra flavor and browning.
2. Place your prime rib in a roasting pan with a rack. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding the bone. Roast your prime rib for 15 minutes at 450°F, then lower the oven temperature to 325°F and continue roasting until the thermometer reads 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, or 140°F for medium. This can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the size of your roast.
3. When your prime rib is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes, loosely covered with foil. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to finish cooking. Do not cut into your prime rib before resting, or you will lose all the moisture and flavor.
4. Carve your prime rib by slicing along the ribs and then cutting across the grain. Serve with your favorite sauce, such as horseradish, au jus, or gravy.

What are Some Side Dishes for Prime Rib

Prime rib is a rich and hearty dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions for what to serve with prime rib:

• Mashed potatoes. A classic and comforting side dish that goes well with any roast. You can make them creamy, cheesy, garlicky, or herbaceous.
• Roasted vegetables. A simple and healthy way to add some color and flavor to your plate. You can roast any vegetables you like, such as carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or broccoli.
• Salad. A fresh and crisp salad can balance out the richness of the prime rib. You can make a simple green salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and dressing, or a more elaborate salad with nuts, cheese, fruits, or grains.
• Bread. A warm and crusty bread can soak up all the delicious juices from the prime rib and sauce. You can serve plain bread, garlic bread, rolls, biscuits, or cornbread.