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Toasted Fennel Seed and Caramelized Shallot-Crusted Prime Rib with Smoked Leek Compound Butter

Toasted Fennel Seed and Caramelized Shallot-Crusted Prime Rib with Smoked Leek Compound Butter

This prime rib roast is crusted with toasted fennel seeds and caramelized shallots, served with a luxurious smoked leek compound butter and a balsamic glaze.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 piece (5-7 lb) Prime rib roast, bone-in
  • 2 tablespoons Fennel seeds
  • 4 tablespoons Olive oil Divided
  • 4 large Shallots, thinly sliced
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup Beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh tarragon, chopped
Smoked Leek Compound Butter
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large Leek, cleaned and chopped White and light green parts only
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Roasting pan
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the Smoked Leek Compound Butter: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped leek and cook until soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool. In a bowl, combine the softened butter, cooked leeks, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined. Transfer the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper and roll it into a log. Twist the ends to seal and refrigerate until firm.
  2. Toast the Fennel Seeds: In a small skillet, toast the fennel seeds over medium heat until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool, then crush slightly with a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon.
  3. Caramelize the Shallots: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced shallots and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. Prepare the Prime Rib: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Rub the prime rib all over with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season generously with salt, pepper, and the toasted fennel seeds. Place the prime rib on a rack in a roasting pan. Spread the caramelized shallots evenly over the top of the roast.
  5. Roast the Prime Rib: Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue to roast until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (about 130°F/54°C for medium-rare), approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Remove the prime rib from the oven and tent with foil. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
  6. Make the Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the beef broth and balsamic vinegar. Reduce over medium heat until thickened, about 10 minutes.
  7. Serve: Slice the prime rib and serve with a dollop of smoked leek compound butter on top. Drizzle with the balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh tarragon.

Notes

This prime rib is perfect for special occasions and pairs well with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.