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Smoked Ancho Chili and Toasted Fennel-Crusted Prime Rib Roast with Caramelized Leek Compound Butter

Smoked Ancho Chili and Toasted Fennel-Crusted Prime Rib Roast with Caramelized Leek Compound Butter

This succulent prime rib roast is seasoned with smoked ancho chili and toasted fennel, then smoked to perfection and served with a rich caramelized leek compound butter.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 510

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 (5-7 lb) Prime rib roast
  • 3 tablespoons Smoked ancho chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons Toasted fennel seeds
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon Black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil For rubbing the roast
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 3 sprigs Fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Caramelized Leek Compound Butter
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 Leeks, cleaned and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil For cooking leeks
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Smoker or Oven
  • Skillet

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the fennel seeds until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Allow to cool slightly, then grind coarsely using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the smoked ancho chili powder, ground fennel seeds, kosher salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary.
  3. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you do not have a smoker, preheat your oven to 225°F (107°C).
  4. Rub the prime rib roast with olive oil and then apply the spice mixture evenly over the surface of the roast.
  5. Spread Dijon mustard over the roast for added flavor and moisture.
  6. Place the prime rib roast in the smoker and smoke for about 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium). If using the oven, place the roast in a roasting pan and roast until it reaches the desired internal temperature, basting occasionally with pan juices.
  7. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook until they are soft and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
  8. In a bowl, combine the softened butter, caramelized leeks, fresh thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.
  9. Once the prime rib reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker or oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
  10. Serve the sliced prime rib with a dollop of caramelized leek compound butter on top.

Notes

For a twist, consider adding other herbs like thyme or sage to the spice rub. Make sure to let the roast rest to retain its juices.