Prime rib comes from the meaty section under the ribs. You can cook it as a standing rib roast or with the ribs removed and saved for another meal. Cooking the roast over an open fire is feasible, though you need to pay close attention to the proximity of the meat to the flames. The challenge is to get the inside cooked without burning the outside.
Step 1
Set up a fire pit 3 feet in diameter with tinder on the first layer covered by kindling and four logs stacked upright to resemble a pyramid.
Step 2
Light the kindling. The flames will rage at the start of the fire but let it burn down to hot coals and embers before putting roast over it. A white film will coat the logs when the fire is ready.
Step 3
Prepare the roast. Mix 1 cup of olive oil with 1/2 cup of your favorite dry rub seasoning. The oil helps carry flavor and keep it moist while cooking, according to "Cooking Light."
Step 4
Wrap the roast in six layers of aluminum foil to protect it from direct heat and flames.
Step 5
Move the coals and wood embers around in the fire pit to create a circle of burning logs, leaving a cooking area with a thinner area of embers underneath. This configuration surrounds the meat with heat. Use oven mitts or gloves to protect yourself.
Step 6
Set the cast iron pan in the center of the fire on the layer of coals.
Step 7
Place the metal grill over the pan and set the meat on it.
Step 8
Cook the roast. Smaller roasts may be done in one to two hours while large roasts may take up to six hours. Turn the roast every half hour to ensure even cooking. Keep the coals burning evenly around the pan and add more wood if necessary.
Step 9
Check the roast with a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the roast. A medium-rare roast reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit with medium roasts around 155 F. Medium-well to well-done should have internal temperatures from 155 to 165 F.
Step 10
Remove the roast from the fire and let it set for 15 to 20 minutes to distribute juices before slicing and serving.
Tips and Warnings
- To make a spice rub from scratch, use 1 tsp. salt, 1 tsp, black pepper, 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper, 1 tsp. paprika and 1 tsp. onion powder. A 1-foot log will burn for approximately 35 to 45 minutes. Have enough logs to add to the fire for the desired cooking time.
Things You'll Need
- Cast iron pan/dutch oven
- Water
- Dry rub seasoning
- Aluminum foil
- Grill
- Fire poker
- Oven mitts or gloves
- Meat thermometer
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