Standing rib roast, also known as prime rib, is a truly magnificent centerpiece for any special occasion. Its rich flavor and tender, juicy texture make it a favorite for holiday dinners, celebrations, or any time you want to impress. But to create a truly unforgettable dining experience, choosing the right side dishes is essential. Knowing What To Serve With Standing Rib Roast can elevate your meal from delicious to extraordinary.
This guide will explore classic and complementary side dishes that perfectly balance the richness of prime rib, ensuring a well-rounded and satisfying feast. We’ll delve into traditional pairings, explore some flavorful vegetable options, and even suggest some comforting potato dishes to complete your menu.
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Perfectly cooked standing rib roast sliced to show juicy medium-rare center, a classic main course.
Classic Companions: Yorkshire Pudding and Brussels Sprouts
When thinking about what to serve with standing rib roast, two dishes immediately come to mind for many: Yorkshire pudding and Brussels sprouts. These are not just sides; they are time-honored partners that enhance the prime rib experience.
Yorkshire Pudding: Capturing the Drippings
Yorkshire pudding is more than just a puffy bread; it’s a savory delight cooked in the rendered fat from the rib roast itself. This ingenious method infuses the pudding with the rich, beefy flavors of the roast drippings, creating an incredibly flavorful and complementary side. As the original author eloquently states, “there’s nothing like slicing into a steak that melts in your mouth like butter, but I am partial to the little popovers that soak up all the jus.” These airy, golden-brown puddings are perfect for soaking up the savory jus from the roast, adding another layer of deliciousness to each bite.
Yorkshire Pudding Recipe (Inspired by the Original)
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup hot standing rib roast grease and drippings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs, at room temperature
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) and ensure it’s HOT. Divide roast drippings into a 6-muffin pan and place in the oven to heat.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add milk and eggs, beating with a hand mixer until very smooth (about 3 minutes). Don’t skimp on the mixing!
- Pour batter into hot muffin tin and bake for 20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Serve immediately alongside the prime rib.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: A Balancing Act
Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but when prepared correctly, they offer a delightful counterpoint to the richness of prime rib. The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts, especially when roasted or sautéed with bacon, provides a welcome contrast and cleanses the palate. The original post rightly defends Brussels sprouts: “If they’re not overcooked, they are delicious.” Bacon adds a smoky, savory depth that complements both the sprouts and the beef beautifully.
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Delicious Brussels sprouts sauteed with bacon, a flavorful and healthy side dish for standing rib roast.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Recipe (Inspired by the Original)
Ingredients:
- 1 bag Brussels sprouts
- 3 slices thick-cut bacon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Trim Brussels sprouts: remove outer leaves, trim bottoms, and cut an “X” in the base.
- Steam sprouts for 4-5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender-crisp. Immediately plunge into an ice bath to stop cooking. Reserve.
- Dice bacon and sauté until crispy. Remove bacon and reserve 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease.
- Heat bacon grease (add olive oil if needed). Toss Brussels sprouts in the hot grease with bacon bits to reheat. Season with salt and pepper and serve.
Beyond the Classics: Expanding Your Side Dish Repertoire
While Yorkshire pudding and Brussels sprouts are fantastic choices, exploring other side dishes can further enhance your prime rib feast. Consider these categories:
Potato Perfection
Potatoes are a natural pairing for beef, and there are countless ways to prepare them. Creamy mashed potatoes, as suggested in the original post (“potato purée because it compliments the flavor”), provide a comforting and smooth texture that contrasts beautifully with the rib roast. Roasted potatoes, au gratin potatoes, or even simple baked potatoes are also excellent options, offering different textures and flavor profiles.
Vibrant Vegetables
Don’t limit yourself to Brussels sprouts! Roasted asparagus, glazed carrots, or a medley of roasted root vegetables like parsnips and sweet potatoes can add color, nutrients, and diverse flavors to your plate. A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can also provide a light and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the meat.
Elegant Starters and Decadent Desserts
To truly round out your meal, consider a sophisticated starter and a memorable dessert. A chilled soup like Vichyssoise, as pictured in the original post, can be a refined and palate-pleasing beginning. For dessert, a rich chocolate cake, like the “Gâteau Chocolate” mentioned, provides a decadent and satisfying conclusion.
Elegant Vichyssoise soup with crab and crème fraîche, a sophisticated starter before standing rib roast.
Rich Gâteau Chocolate cake, a decadent dessert to complete a standing rib roast meal.
Tips for Planning Your Prime Rib Meal
- Consider Balance: Aim for a variety of textures and flavors. Rich prime rib pairs well with lighter, brighter sides.
- Think Seasonally: Choose vegetables that are in season for the best flavor and quality.
- Plan Ahead: Some side dishes can be prepped in advance, allowing you to focus on the prime rib closer to serving time.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Plate: Select 2-3 side dishes that complement each other and the prime rib without overwhelming the meal.
Conclusion: Crafting the Perfect Prime Rib Feast
Knowing what to serve with standing rib roast is key to creating a truly memorable dining experience. Whether you opt for classic Yorkshire pudding and Brussels sprouts, or explore other delicious vegetable and potato options, the goal is to create a balanced and flavorful meal that highlights the star of the show – the magnificent standing rib roast. Enjoy the process of selecting your sides, and savor every bite of your perfectly planned feast!
