Ah, “Poor Man’s Prime Rib”! This is a budget-friendly alternative to the traditional prime rib roast but still delivers a rich, flavorful, and tender meat experience. It uses more affordable cuts of beef, like Chuck Roast, which can be prepared in a way that mimics the prime rib texture and flavor. Here’s how you can make Poor Man’s Prime Rib:
Poor Man’s Prime Rib Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb chuck roast (boneless or bone-in)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup beef broth (optional, for extra moisture)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for finishing)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Roast:
- Take the chuck roast out of the refrigerator 30-60 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
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Season the Meat:
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika.
- Rub this mixture all over the chuck roast, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides.
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Sear the Roast (Optional but adds flavor):
- In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, sear the roast on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and crispy. This step helps lock in the flavors and adds a rich crust to the roast.
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Roast the Chuck Roast:
- After searing (or if skipping the searing step), place the roast in the oven.
- Roast at 450°F for 15-20 minutes to develop a nice crust.
- Lower the temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting for about 1.5-2 hours, or until the roast reaches your desired doneness:
- Rare: 120°F (49°C)
- Medium-rare: 130°F (54°C)
- Medium: 140°F (60°C)
- Well-done: 160°F (71°C)
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Rest the Roast:
- Once the roast is done, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
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Slice and Serve:
- Slice the roast against the grain to ensure it’s tender. The texture should be similar to prime rib, and the seasoning will give it that classic “roast beef” flavor.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple gravy made from the drippings.
Optional Gravy:
- To make gravy, place the pan drippings in a small saucepan, add a bit of beef broth, and simmer until the sauce thickens. You can also add a tablespoon of butter to enhance the richness.
Enjoy:
This Poor Man’s Prime Rib gives you that delicious, tender, and flavorful experience of prime rib but without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for a comforting Sunday roast, holiday meal, or any time you want the flavor of prime rib on a budget!
