vern751 wrote:
In this case Prime rib refers to the cut not the grade of the meat. According to the USDA this cut can be called Prime without grading out as prime.
BINGO!
Confusing, as Prime is both a Grade, and a cut. This cut is Prime Rib, then it is graded into Prime, Choice, Select.
You normally will not find Prime Prime Rib. The best restaurants buy it at high prices.
You will find Choice or Select in normal outlets. Buy Choice, do NOT buy Select. We run a Pheasant Hunting operation, serving meals. Prime Rib is one of our specialities.
My Mother in Law once told us the local store had Prime Rib on sale, and got a couple for us. It was Select. NEVER AGAIN! It sucked. It was just like a dry, roast beef.
Choice is much better, usually costs about $1 a lb more, worth every penny. If that $1 is the difference, and you have to save it, just buy a good regular roast, and save another $ or 2. It will be just as good eating.