Probably one of the most well-known and most loved roast beef preparations is the prime rib. This is a classic way to prepare the beef rib primal cut. This cut of the cow is roasted in a simple Au Jus and is probably one of the most flavorful and tender beef dishes a person can enjoy. It’s no wonder so many people clamor to celebrate National Prime Rib Day on April 27th every year. It’s just another excuse to try out this tasty dish—perhaps with some roasted potatoes, baby carrots, and a bit of broccoli or asparagus.

The History of Prime Rib

We researched the history of National Prime Rib Day but were unable to find a definitive answer to who created it or why. That’s why we decided to turn our attention to prime rib and see if we could find out a little bit more about its history. After all, all we knew about this beef preparation was that it was tasty and very delicious. What we discovered about its history surprised even us.

Even though mankind has been butchering and roasting beef—or at least their ancient cousins, the Aurochs—for millions of years, it wouldn’t be until the 19th century that butchering methods became refined enough for people to enjoy the beef prime rib. At least, it wasn’t until this time that this portion of the cow was properly butchered and prepared in the same way that it’s prepared nowadays, except during those days it was called a standing rib roast and not prime rib. Irish and British households would often call it a Sunday Roast, so named because it was served on Sunday after church services.

Facts About the Prime Rib

To most people, the prime rib is just a tasty cut of meat, but to us, it’s a fascinating piece of cultural culinary history. That’s why we’ve decided to list some of the most fascinating facts that we could find about this incredible cut of beef.

• Dry-aging a prime rib concentrates the flavor of the beef and makes it tastier.
• Prime ribs have been disappearing from U.S. restaurants at an alarming rate due to rising beef prices.
• The prime rib is one of eight primal cuts of beef.
• The prime rib contains some of the most tender parts of the cow.

Observing National Prime Rib Day

National Prime Rib Day should be an easy enough holiday to observe; after all, a person only has to obtain a delicious prime rib. However, it’s becoming harder and harder to celebrate this holiday because many restaurants have stopped serving prime ribs due to rising beef costs. Fortunately, consumers can still head to their local grocery store or butcher and obtain a prime rib to cook at home. Anyone who does should be sure to let everyone know that they’re celebrating this holiday by using the hashtag #NationalPrimeRibDay on their social media accounts.