Smoked Garlic Butter Prime Rib

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Introduction

Indulge in the rich flavors of a Smoked Garlic Butter Prime Rib. This dish combines the tender juiciness of prime rib with a delectable smoked garlic butter, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weekend dinner!

Ingredients

  • 1 whole prime rib (about 5-7 lbs)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup beef broth

Directions

  1. Preparation of Prime Rib: Begin by removing your prime rib from the refrigerator at least an hour before cooking. This step brings the meat to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
  2. Smoker Setup: Preheat your smoker to a steady 225°F, ideal for slow-cooking the rib. If you’re using a charcoal smoker, maintain a consistent temperature by monitoring coal and airflow.
  3. Making Garlic Herb Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, finely chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients until they form a homogenous paste.
  4. Seasoning the Meat: Brush the entire surface of the prime rib with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also helps the garlic herb butter adhere to the meat. Next, evenly coat the rib with the garlic herb mixture, massaging it into every crevice for maximum flavor infusion.
  5. Smoking the Prime Rib: Place the prime rib in your preheated smoker, fat side up. This positioning allows the fat to render and baste the meat during cooking. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the rib, avoiding the bone for an accurate reading.
  6. Cooking to Perfection: Smoke the rib until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness. For a rare finish, aim for 120°F, or for medium-rare, 130°F. The total cooking time will vary depending on the size of the rib, but it generally takes between 3 to 5 hours.
  7. Resting the Meat: Once the prime rib reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the smoker. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 20-30 minutes. Resting is a crucial step as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender prime rib.
  8. Serving: After resting, slice the prime rib against the grain. Serve with a side of simmered beef broth as a simple yet flavorful au jus, complementing the rich taste of the smoked meat.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: Cooking Time: 3-5 hours | Total Time: Total Time: ~4-5 hours| Cuisine: American | Category: Main Course

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use high-quality, grass-fed prime rib.
  • Adjust cooking times based on your preferred level of doneness.
  • Resting the meat is crucial for juicy, tender results.

Nutrition Details

  • Serving: 1 slice
  • Calories: 490
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Vitamin A: 200IU
  • Calcium: 20mg
  • Iron: 4mg

FAQs

  1. Can I prepare this recipe in an oven? Yes, the prime rib can be cooked in an oven if you don’t have a smoker. Preheat your oven to 225°F and follow the same preparation steps. Remember, the oven method won’t impart the smoky flavor characteristic of this dish.
  2. What’s the best wood for smoking? For smoking prime rib, milder woods like oak, cherry, or apple are excellent choices. They provide a subtle smoky flavor that doesn’t overpower the meat.
  3. How do I know when the prime rib is done? The best way to ensure doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, and 140°F for medium.
  4. Can I make the garlic herb butter in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic herb butter up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before applying it to the meat.
  5. What are some good side dishes to serve with this? Classic sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad pair wonderfully with the rich flavors of the prime rib.
  6. How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain the meat’s tenderness.
  7. Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings? Yes, prime rib is an excellent choice for holiday dinners or large gatherings. It’s a show-stopping centerpiece that feeds a crowd.
  8. Can I add or substitute herbs in the butter mixture? Yes, feel free to customize the herb mixture. Sage, parsley, or marjoram are also great choices.
  9. How can I make the crust more flavorful? For an extra flavorful crust, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard to the garlic herb butter.
  10. Is there a way to make this recipe more budget-friendly? While prime rib is a premium cut, you can apply the same cooking method and flavors to a more budget-friendly cut like ribeye roast.

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