Imagine this: a perfectly cooked standing rib roast, its glistening surface hinting at the juicy, flavorful meat within. The rich aroma fills your kitchen, promising a truly unforgettable meal. This isn't some fancy restaurant experience; this is a delicious, surprisingly easy standing rib roast au jus you can make at home. This recipe makes a stunning centerpiece for any special occasion, but it's also impressive enough for a weekend dinner when you want to treat yourself and your family to something truly special. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- One 4-5 pound bone-in standing rib roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening the au jus)
Instructions:
Preparing the Roast:
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Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures even cooking throughout the roast.
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Pat the roast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere properly and promotes browning.
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Season generously. Rub the olive oil all over the roast, then liberally sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary. Make sure to season all sides evenly.
Roasting the Meat:
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Sear the roast. Place the seasoned roast in a large roasting pan. Sear the roast in a preheated oven for 20 minutes to develop a beautiful crust.
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Reduce heat and roast. After searing, reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C). Add the beef broth and red wine (if using) to the bottom of the roasting pan. Continue roasting, basting occasionally with the pan juices, for approximately 2-2.5 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare, or your desired doneness.
Making the Au Jus:
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Remove the roast. Once cooked, remove the roast from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board, loosely tented with foil, for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
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Make the au jus. While the roast rests, strain the pan juices from the roasting pan into a saucepan. Whisk together the flour and a few tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the pan juices, stirring constantly until thickened. Simmer for a few minutes, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serving:
- Carve and serve. Once rested, carve the roast against the grain into thin slices. Serve immediately with the delicious au jus for dipping. This makes a perfect quick dinner idea for special occasions or family get-togethers.
Tips for the Best Standing Rib Roast:
- Choose a quality roast. The better the quality of the meat, the better the final result will be.
- Don't overcrowd the pan. Ensure there's enough space in the roasting pan for even heat distribution.
- Use a meat thermometer. This is the best way to ensure your roast is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let it rest! This is crucial for a tender and juicy roast.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Roast carrots, potatoes, or onions in the pan with the roast for a complete meal.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like sage, oregano, or marjoram.
- Make a horseradish cream sauce: A creamy horseradish sauce pairs beautifully with the richness of the roast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the roast and the number of servings. A general estimate for a 4-5 pound roast, serving 6-8 people, would be approximately 400-500 calories, 30-40g of fat, and 30-40g of protein per serving. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and serving sizes.
This standing rib roast au jus is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a special meal at home. This easy recipe combines delicious flavors and simple cooking techniques to create a truly memorable dish. Enjoy!