If you’re looking to impress your dinner guests with a show-stopping main course, this Heritage Rib Roast is the way to go. It’s a classic dish that's rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. Let's dive in and make your kitchen smell like a dream.
Standing rib roast is the star of the show, a cut that’s both tender and flavorful. You want to choose a good quality cut, ideally with a nice marbling. Kosher salt is used to season the meat, helping to enhance its natural flavors. Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and depth. Garlic gives an aromatic punch that complements the beef beautifully. Olive oil helps to create a paste that sticks to the meat and promotes a beautiful crust. Rosemary and thyme add an earthy, fresh aroma that pairs perfectly with beef.
This rib roast pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad. A glass of robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, will complement the rich flavors of the meat.
First, preheat your oven to 450°F. This high heat will give your roast a nice sear. In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme to make a flavorful paste. Once you’ve formed the paste, rub it evenly over the entire surface of the rib roast. Be generous and make sure every nook and cranny is covered.
Place the roast bone-side down in a roasting pan. This setup helps the roast cook evenly. Slide it into your preheated oven and roast it for 20 minutes. This initial blast of heat is going to give the meat a nice crust.
After that, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F. This lower temperature will cook the roast more gently, allowing it to become tender and juicy. Continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare, which should take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Once out of the oven, let the roast rest for 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and full of flavor.