If you're looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party, look no further than this Savory Herb-Crusted Roast Beef. It's a dish that balances rich, beefy flavors with a fragrant herb crust, creating a taste sensation that will have your guests asking for seconds.
Boneless beef rib roast is the star of the show, delivering a tender and juicy bite with every slice. Olive oil helps to create a beautiful sear and locks in moisture. Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance the natural flavors of the beef, while minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and fresh thyme add aromatic, earthy notes to the crust. Dijon mustard adds a subtle tanginess and helps the herbs adhere to the roast. Beef broth is used to deglaze the pan and forms the base of a delicious gravy, thickened with cornstarch.
This roast pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or a rustic root vegetable mash. A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans can add a fresh, vibrant contrast. Consider serving with a bold red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the rich flavors.
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high heat will help you get a good sear on the roast. Take your beef rib roast and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because a dry surface will brown better.
Mix the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. This mixture is the magic coating for your beef. Rub it all over the roast, making sure every inch is covered. Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan to allow air circulation for even cooking.
Pop the roast into your preheated oven for 15 minutes. This initial blast of heat will help to seal in the juices. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting for about 1.5 hours. You're aiming for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for a perfect medium-rare.
Once done, remove the roast from the oven and tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 20 minutes. This resting period is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is juicy.
While the roast rests, pour the beef broth into the roasting pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. These bits are flavor gold! Mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. This will be your savory gravy.
Finally, carve the roast into slices and serve with the gravy on the side. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!