Ingredients:
- 8–9 lbs (approx. 3.6–4 kg) Bone-in Prime Rib Roast (4 ribs, trimmed)
- 3 Tbsp Olive Oil or Clarified Butter
- 1/4 cup Coarse Kosher Salt (approx. 60 g)
- 2 Tbsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 6 large cloves Fresh Garlic (finely minced or pressed)
- 1 Tbsp Fresh Rosemary (finely chopped)
- 1 Tbsp Fresh Thyme Leaves (finely chopped)
Instructions:
- Prep the Roast: Trim any loose fat but leave the main fat cap intact. If the bone is separated from the muscle, use butcher’s twine to tie the roast back securely onto the bones.
- Dry and Chill (Brine): Pat the entire roast thoroughly dry with paper towels. Place the roast uncovered on a wire rack set over a tray in the refrigerator for a minimum of 24 hours. This removes surface moisture, which is the secret to a crisp crust.
- Make the Rub: In a small bowl, combine the Kosher salt, black pepper, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
- Season and Rest (Room Temp): Two hours before cooking, remove the roast from the refrigerator. Rub the entire surface liberally with olive oil or clarified butter, then pack the garlic-herb rub evenly over the roast. Let the roast sit at room temperature for 2 hours.
- Preheat Oven (Low) and Insert Thermometer: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Place the roast fat-side up on the wire rack in the roasting pan. Insert the probe of the digital thermometer into the thickest part of the beef, ensuring it doesn't touch bone.
- Initial Roast: Place the pan in the preheated oven. Roast until the internal temperature reaches 10°F (5.5°C) below your target doneness (e.g., 120°F / 49°C for Medium-Rare). This typically takes 3.5 to 4.5 hours.
- The Crucial Rest (First Rest): Once the target internal temperature is hit, immediately remove the roast and transfer it (leaving the thermometer probe inserted) to a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil.
- High-Heat Preheat and Sear: Increase the oven temperature to 500°F (260°C). When the oven reaches temperature, return the roast (uncovered) to the oven for 6–10 minutes, or until the exterior fat is deeply browned and beautifully crisp.
- Final Rest: Remove the roast from the oven. Cover tightly with foil (or a clean kitchen towel) and allow to rest for a full 30 to 45 minutes. This is critical for juice redistribution.
- Carve and Serve: Remove the butcher’s twine and the bone structure (if tied). Slice the roast against the grain into 1/2-inch thick slices. Serve immediately.