First Cut Vs Second Cut Prime Rib: The Flavor Difference To Know

The tenderness of prime rib is due in part to where it is taken from the cattle. Buttery and rich, these pieces of meat are removed from the rib section of a cow. While this area doesn't develop quite like the meaty muscles found in rump or chuck roast, the middle section is marbled, which means it offers plenty of flavor, moisture, and tenderness to a meal. 

Since prime rib is often the centerpiece of nice dinner, we spoke to Pierre Albaladejo, Executive Chef at Park Hyatt Aviara, for tips on how to make sure we choose with the absolute best piece of meat to impress our guests. "The first cut is cut closer to the hind of the cattle, and the second cut is cut closer to the shoulder," Albaladejo clarified. "The first cut will generally be more tender and leaner, whereas the second cut will have more fat marbling and richer flavor." You can ask your butcher which is which when you're out shopping for tonight's dinner. 

The leaner first cut, near the loin of an animal, tends to run smaller in size than the second cut and can be priced higher. The second cut is larger, fattier, and might be what you're looking for when putting a meal together. As for Albaladejo, he looks for the cuts that offer more marbling throughout the muscle. "I prefer a fuller taste and juicier piece of meat, so I gravitate toward the second cut." Because this second cut offers a higher fat content than the first, it can be easier for novice chefs to work with. You won't need much beyond salt and pepper to make a premium-quality piece taste delicious, and the meat can be slow cooked, smoked, or roasted to perfection.

Note that leaner first cuts can take longer to cook and many chefs reach for more layered flavors to season and build taste in recipes using this cut. Think classic pot roast recipes and crock pot corned beef. Regardless of your preferences, serve the beef with pieces of crusty bread that you can use to sop up the juices that are left on the plate. A well-cooked prime rib is typically not an item that yields leftovers.