This expensive cut of beef is a primal cut taken from the upper rib area. A whole rib roast consists of seven ribs and weighs close to fifteen pounds, which is enough beef to feed a party of twenty. More typically this cut is sold as three to four rib roasts or is cut down to single rib-eye steaks. Rib roasts are labeled many different ways at the grocery store, including as “standing rib roast” or “prime rib.” The term “prime” is used very loosely in this case and probably does not mean the meat has been graded “prime” by the USDA. Prime rib roasts have always been popular because of their tenderness and rich beef flavor. Usually the simpler preparation the better for this cut of beef. Many of the popular marinades today compromise the great taste of this cut by masking the natural beef flavor. This recipe uses mild seasoning accents to heighten and not diminish the flavor of this tasty beef roast.
Ingredients
serves 6 to 9
Roasted Garlic Herb Butter
Step 1
Build a fire (wood or a combination of charcoal and wood) for indirect cooking by situating the coals on only one side of the grill, leaving the other side void.
Step 2
On a doubled square of aluminum foil, place the garlic cloves, thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Drizzle the olive oil over the ingredients. Wrap the foil tight and place over the void side of the grill. Cook the foil pouch for 45 minutes at 250°F.
Step 3
Remove the pouch from the cooker and open the foil. After cooling slightly, squeeze the garlic cloves from the husks into a small bowl. Mash the garlic and cooked herbs together, forming a paste. Stir in the softened butter and mix well. Spoon the mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap and roll it into a small log. Refrigerate until firm, about 30 minutes, or up to 2 weeks.
Step 4
Cut small slits every 3/4 inch onto the top (the opposite side from the bones) of the rib roast. Slice the chilled garlic herb butter into pats and insert one into each slit, using the entire amount of butter. Season the rib roast evenly with the salt and pepper.
Step 5
Place the rib roast on the void side of the grill with the bone side down and cook over indirect heat for 2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 120 to 125°F for rare, 130 to 135°F for medium rare, or 140 to 145°F for medium. Let the roast rest under tented foil for 20 minutes and then slice between each bone into thick steaks.
Cooking Method
Step 6
Indirect heat
Suggested Wood
Step 7
Hickory, Oak
