Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in prime rib roast (choose a roast that weighs about 4-6 pounds for 4-6 servings)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme (or 2-3 teaspoons of dried)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Preparation:
- Take the prime rib roast out of the refrigerator at least 1-2 hours before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This will ensure even cooking.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Seasoning:
- Pat the roast dry with paper towels. This will help the surface to brown nicely.
- Rub the roast all over with olive oil.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the roast.
- Season generously with salt and pepper. Make sure to season the entire surface.
- Herbs:
- If using fresh herbs, remove the leaves from the sprigs and sprinkle them evenly over the roast. If using dried herbs, sprinkle them over the roast.
- Roasting:
- Place the roast bone-side down in a roasting pan with a rack, if available. This elevates the roast and allows for better air circulation.
- Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone. This will help you monitor the internal temperature accurately.
- Roast the prime rib in the preheated oven. Calculate the cooking time based on the weight of the roast:
- Rare: 15-17 minutes per pound (33-37 minutes per kilogram) for an internal temperature of 120-125°F (49-52°C).
- Medium-rare: 18-20 minutes per pound (40-44 minutes per kilogram) for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).
- Medium: 20-22 minutes per pound (44-48 minutes per kilogram) for an internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C).
- Remember that these are approximate times, and the best way to ensure the roast is cooked to your desired level is by using a meat thermometer.
- Resting:
- Once the roast reaches your desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board.
- Tent the roast loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy and tender prime rib.
- Carving:
- Slice the prime rib into thick slices and serve immediately. You can serve it with a horseradish sauce or au jus if desired.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked prime rib! Adjust the cooking time to your preferred level of doneness, and you’ll have a delicious and impressive meal every time.