Braised Prime Rib with Spicy Chorizo and Vegetable Medley

This Braised Prime Rib with Spicy Chorizo is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for cooler days or a cozy family gathering. The prime rib is slowly cooked with robust vegetables like leeks, carrots, and potatoes, all simmered in a tomato coulis and spiced with hot chorizo. The flavors meld together, creating a savory, rich stew that’s deeply satisfying and full of flavor. With aromatic notes of garlic, bay leaves, and a hint of spice, this braised prime rib dish is sure to become a favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 kg prime rib dish
  • 1 spicy chorizo, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 3 leeks, cleaned and sliced
  • 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 3 small potatoes, quartered
  • 1 pea box (about 1 cup peas)
  • 25 cl tomato coulis (about 1 cup)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Chop the Vegetables: Slice the onion, mince the garlic, and cut the leeks, carrots, and potatoes into manageable pieces. These vegetables will provide the base flavors for the dish and add heartiness to the braise.
  2. Slice the Chorizo: Slice the spicy chorizo into rounds. The chorizo will add a smoky, spicy flavor to the dish, complementing the rich taste of the prime rib.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Meat

  1. Season the Prime Rib: Generously season the prime rib with salt and pepper on all sides.
  2. Sear the Meat: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the prime rib on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Add Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add Chorizo: Add the sliced chorizo and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it releases its oils and becomes slightly crispy. This infuses the base with a delicious smoky flavor.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Tomato Base

  1. Add the Vegetables: Add the leeks, carrots, potatoes, and peas to the pot. Stir to coat them in the chorizo oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Pour in the Tomato Coulis: Add the tomato coulis to the pot and stir until everything is well combined. The tomato adds a rich, slightly tangy base for the braising liquid.
  3. Add Bay Leaves: Add the bay leaves for an earthy, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Step 5: Return the Meat and Simmer

  1. Return the Prime Rib: Place the seared prime rib back into the pot, nestling it among the vegetables and chorizo.
  2. Add Liquid if Needed: If the liquid doesn’t fully cover the ingredients, add a bit of water or broth until everything is mostly submerged.
  3. Simmer: Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors are fully developed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

  1. Check Seasoning: Taste the braising liquid and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
  2. Serve: Spoon the braised rib, vegetables, and chorizo onto plates or in bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy with crusty bread or a side of rice.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~480
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sodium: 750mg

FAQ

1. Can I Use Another Type of Meat?

  • Absolutely. Pork shoulder, beef chuck, or lamb shank work well in place of prime rib for a tender, flavorful braise. Adjust cooking times based on the cut.

2. What If I Don’t Like Spicy Chorizo?

  • Use mild chorizo or substitute with smoked sausage for a milder flavor while keeping the dish smoky and savory.

3. Can I Add Other Vegetables?

  • Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or celery for additional flavor and texture. Simply add them with the other vegetables in Step 4.

4. Can This Dish Be Made in a Slow Cooker?

  • Yes! Sear the meat and chorizo as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Tips for the Perfect Braised Prime Rib with Chorizo and Vegetables

  1. Brown the Meat Well: Searing the prime rib adds depth to the dish. Take your time to get a nice, even browning on all sides.
  2. Control the Heat: Keep the braise at a low simmer. Too high a heat can cause the meat to become tough.
  3. Use Fresh Herbs: Bay leaves and thyme (if added) provide a fresh, aromatic depth to the dish. Removing the bay leaves before serving ensures the flavor isn’t overpowering.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the stew on the stovetop over low heat until hot. The dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months, though the vegetables may become softer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Braised Prime Rib with Spicy Chorizo and Vegetable Medley is a cozy, flavorful dish that’s as hearty as it is delicious. The tender prime rib, smoky chorizo, and wholesome vegetables make this an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for sharing. Whether served for a special occasion or as a comforting family dinner, this braise is a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. With a few steps and minimal ingredients, you can create a mouth-watering meal that fills your kitchen with enticing aromas. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors, and savor each comforting bite!