Prime Rib: What Is It, What Should You Look For, and More!

What is prime rib?

Prime rib is a popular menu item at upscale restaurants and is the centerpiece of many traditional holiday dinners – but what is prime rib, actually? This tender, well-marbled cut of beef comes from the primal rib section of a beef cow and is typically roasted in the oven. 

It should be noted that the word “prime” indicates that the meat has been assigned this grade by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). If this cut of meat has not been labeled “prime,” then it is simply called a “standing rib roast.” The name comes from the fact that the roast contains rib bones, which allows you to stand the meat up while it’s cooked inside a roasting pan. The cut is also available without bones. In this case, it’s simply called a “rib roast.” Shop for standing rib roast. 

Is prime rib the same as ribeye?

While prime rib (or standing rib roast) and ribeye steak both come from the same cut of meat, they are not the same. You will traditionally cook an entire roast of prime rib in the oven, then slice and serve it with a simple sauce made from its own juices (au jus). A prime rib or standing rib roast can be quite large, ranging from two to seven ribs. 

On the other hand, a ribeye must be cut from the roast before it’s cooked. They are either sold bone-in or boneless and are typically cooked on the grill. 

Where did prime rib originate from?

While the history of cooking and eating prime rib is unclear, most historians agree it gained popularity in the United Kingdom during the Industrial Revolution. At that time, it was also popular in Ireland, New Zealand, Austria, the United States, and Canada. 

In England and Ireland, the standing rib roast was known as a “Sunday Roast” and was traditionally served on Sunday afternoons after church service. This main dish was often served with baked or mashed potatoes, vegetables, stuffing, and gravy. 

What should I look for when buying prime rib?

If you want to choose the perfect prime rib roast, there are a few things you need to look for. Once you understand your options, you’ll know exactly how to find the right roast for your needs. 

1. Grade of meat

First, it’s important to decide on the grade of meat you’re looking for. If you want to splurge, then you’ll want a true “UDSA Prime” rib roast. This is a bit harder to find, but it’s well worth it. The fat in the meat (known as “marbling”) is heavy and evenly distributed, which adds to the flavor and keeps the meat moist. 

Other options are “USDA Choice” and “Select.” USDA Choice is high-quality meat that is readily available and a bit less expensive than Prime. Select is a cost-effective option that will have less marbling. However, it may be tougher and less juicy. 

2. Cut of meat

Next, you’ll need to decide whether you want the “chuck end” or the “loin end.” The chuck end consists of ribs six through nine. In this cut, you’ll find more fat both around and within the meat. The loin end is made up of ribs 10 through 12. This cut is leaner and has a larger “central eye” of meat. 

3. Bone-in or boneless

The next decision to make is whether you want a bone-in prime rib or a boneless one. While you may want to refer to the recipe you’re using to help guide your choice, many professionals recommend the bone-in option. When cooking prime rib in the oven, the bone insulates the meat, which can make it more tender and flavorful. 

One advantage of boneless prime rib is that it’s easier to cut after it’s cooked. You can also ask the butcher to remove the bones, then tie the meat back onto them. This will give you the advantage of insulation while cooking and also make the roast easy to cut when it’s done.

4. Size of the meat

Lastly, you’ll want to make sure you choose the right size roast. Remember that prime rib cooking time will vary depending on the size of the roast you choose. As a general rule, you’ll want about one rib for every two adults. 

A four to six-pound bone-in prime rib will usually have about two ribs, so it will serve four to six people. An eight to ten-pound roast will have four to five ribs, so it will serve eight to ten people. If you’re serving a lot of sides, then you could get away with serving up to three people per rib. 

If you are planning to order a grocery delivery, you can easily shop for prime rib via Instacart. After adding a product to your cart, use the “Instructions” option to notify your Instacart shopper about any preferences or specific directions on how to choose the best products. Shop for prime rib. 

How to store prime rib

You should store your prime rib in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. Raw beef can generally stay in the refrigerator for about three days as long as it’s in an airtight container. If you decide to dry age it, then it can stay in the refrigerator for up to three months. 

A wet-aged prime rib can stay in the freezer for up to two weeks, and a dry-aged one will do fine for up to six months. 

How to tell if prime rib is bad

Just like any other type of beef, if a prime rib has spoiled, it will often look gray in color, or the color may be faded or darker than normal. If the outside of the meat is slimy, slippery, or sticky, this is also a good indication that it has spoiled. An unpleasant or rancid odor is also a sign that a rib roast is past its prime. 

What can I substitute for prime rib?

If you’re not able to get a “UDSA Prime” roast, then you could make use of a rib roast or standing rib roast instead. Other alternatives to prime rib include top loin, tri-tip, and eye of round. 

Shop for prime rib today

Are you excited to learn how to roast prime rib? If so, you’ll be glad to know you can get everything you need without ever leaving your home! Just visit Instacart.com, add all the ingredients to your shopping list, and wait for a professional shopper to take care of everything for you. You can either pick up your completed order at your favorite store or have it delivered right to your home. Try it out today! 

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