How To Purchase A Prime Rib Roast

A whole standing rib roast (prime rib roast) consists of ribs 6 through 12. Most GOOD butchers recommend that you request a rib roast from the small end toward the back of the rib section, which is leaner and gives you more meat for your dollar. This cut is referred to as the first cut, the loin end, or sometimes the small end, because the meat and ribs get larger as they move up toward the shoulder.

I do NOT recommend purchasing a boneless rib roast, as roasting with the bones adds flavor. But, if you do purchase a boneless prime rib roast, cook using the same guidelines as a roast with ribs. Usually the weight is figured without the bones. If in doubt, weight your roast before cooking it.

Be sure and check the date the prime rib was packaged. This is an indicator as to how long it has been sitting around in the store. Look at the color of the prime rib; it should have a bright red color and no dry or brown edges. Check for any damage to the packaging and wrapping.

Have the butcher cut off the chine bones from the bottom of the roast and the rib bones from the meat just along the bone line but do not discard them. They can be cut off in separate pieces or the chine bones can be cut off as one piece with the rib bones. Have the meat placed back on the rib bones and wrap them along with the chine bones to take home to cook along with the roast. NOTE: Having the bones cut away from the meat before cooking will make carving the finished prime rib a lot easier.