A “poor man’s prime rib” typically refers to a more budget-friendly cut of meat that’s prepared in a way that resembles prime rib in flavor and texture. One popular choice for this is using a chuck roast. While it won’t be exactly the same as prime rib, it can still be delicious when cooked properly. Here’s a recipe for a budget-friendly version of a roast that’s reminiscent of prime rib:
Ingredients:
- 1 chuck roast (3-4 pounds)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 2 teaspoons dried rosemary)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4-6 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4-6 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Season the Roast:
- Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Sear the Roast:
- Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof Dutch oven or heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chuck roast and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This will help develop flavor and texture.
- Add Garlic and Herbs:
- Add minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and fresh thyme (or dried herbs) to the pan with the roast. Cook for a minute or two until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour in the beef broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This will add flavor to your roast.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and potatoes around the roast.
- Cover and Roast:
- Cover the Dutch oven with a lid or tightly with aluminum foil.
- Place it in the preheated oven and roast for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the roast is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the Dutch oven from the oven and let the roast rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the roast into thick portions and serve with the cooked vegetables.
This “poor man’s prime rib” roast will be tender and flavorful, thanks to the slow roasting and the use of herbs and garlic. It’s a more economical option that still delivers a satisfying, hearty meal. Enjoy!
