How to Cook Prime Rib

Prime rib is a juicy cut of steak with a name that’s quite self-explanatory. “Prime” refers to the grade of the beef, which is the highest designation. It describes the highest quality of steak. “Rib” means it is cut from the rib section of the cow. Prime rib is a dish famously served in many 5-star restaurants. However, with a few easy guidelines, you can learn how to cook prime rib at home.

Benefits of Prime Rib

Prime rib is usually served medium-rare and has marbling that gives it a lot of flavor. Traditionally, the bone is left inside the meat to boost the overall flavor, but you can remove it without affecting its taste. Because it is tender, it doesn’t require a lot of seasoning. It also cooks in minutes, making it an ideal steak cut to prepare when you’re pressed for time.

How to Cook Prime Rib

To learn how to cook prime rib, you should use the simplest method possible. While some prefer using the oven technique, others find sautéing steak first and then baking it to be easier.

Seasoning

The general rule of thumb is: the tender the steak, the less seasoning it needs. This is true for prime rib. To season, create a blend of salt, garlic and your favorite spices. Drizzle a little oil on the meat, make small incisions on the side and rub on the seasoning. Oil helps spices stick to the steak while incisions help to absorb them. If your rib is not prime grade, consider using meat tenderizers and marinades to make it softer.

How to Cook Prime Rib on Stove top

Many cooks prefer pan-frying prime rib first in order to form a crust on the outside. The crust forms a flavorful outer layer made from seasoning added before cooking.

Step 1: Preheat the oven by setting it to broiler. The broiler setting is usually indicated by a single, top bar.

Step 2: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan. When it begins to sizzle, add the prime rib and fry it over high heat until it creates a crust.

Step 3: Remove from stove top and transfer it into the oven, with meat still inside the pan. Cook meat on each side at 2-minute intervals until it is done. Note that the more juices there are on the surface of the meat, the rarer it is. When meat is ready, drizzle remaining juices on the steak and serve.

How to Cook Prime Rib in the Oven

Tip: It is highly advisable to have a functioning meat thermometer with this cooking method.

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450F. Season steak according to above instructions.

Step 2: Roast steak for 15 minutes and reduce heat to 345F. Allow to cook for 20-30 minutes, checking for doneness at 10-minute intervals.

Step 3: Stick a meat thermometer in the center for readings. If it reads 120-125 degrees, it’s rare. If it reads 130-135 degrees, it is medium rare. Medium is between 140 and 145, while medium well prime rib is from 150-155 degrees.

Knowing how to cook prime rib can help you prepare 5-star gourmet meals in your kitchen in minutes. Whether you prefer to slow-cook it in the oven, or speed up cooking by pan-frying, prime rib will come out tender and flavorful. Remember to season well and monitor steak for doneness frequently.