Reheating Prime Rib: Air Fryer Magic

Prime rib is an expensive slab of beef, so it's understandable that you wouldn't want any leftovers to go to waste. Reheating prime rib isn't as easy as with other cuts of beef, as it takes more effort to heat the meat without drying it out and preserving the integrity of the fat.

While some sources advise against reheating prime rib in an air fryer, others claim it is the best method to use.

How to prepare and store leftovers

Preparing and storing leftovers is an important part of enjoying prime rib. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do it right:

Storing Leftovers:

It is recommended to store prime rib leftovers in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil to prevent the meat from drying out. Leftovers should be refrigerated within 2 hours for safety and can be stored for 3 to 7 days. If you don't plan on eating the leftovers within this time frame, it's best to freeze them. Frozen prime rib can last up to 6 months.

For optimal moisture retention, drizzle some leftover au jus, beef broth, or stock over the meat before wrapping and storing it.

Reheating in an Air Fryer:

When it comes to reheating prime rib in an air fryer, it's best to work with a whole roast instead of slices, as the stronger heat can dry out individual slices. Here are the steps to reheat prime rib in an air fryer:

• Remove the meat from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before reheating.
• Preheat the air fryer to 225°F (107°C).
• Wrap the roast in aluminium foil, adding 1/4 to 1/3 cup of leftover au jus, beef broth, or stock. Tightly seal the foil.
• Place the wrapped roast in the air fryer and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Check the temperature every 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
• Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the roast from the air fryer, unwrap, plate, and serve.

Other Reheating Options:

While an air fryer is a convenient option, there are several other methods you can use to reheat prime rib:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 250°F to 300°F (121°C to 150°C). Wrap the meat in foil with au jus, broth, or stock, and place it in a roasting pan or baking sheet. Reheat for 15 to 30 minutes, checking the temperature regularly.
• Sous Vide: Preheat a sous vide machine or a large stockpot with water to 165°F (74°C). Cut the roast into even slices and place them in a sealed bag with au jus, broth, or stock. Submerge the bag in the water and reheat for about an hour.
• Steamer: Bring a steamer or a DIY double boiler setup to a simmer. Let the meat come to room temperature, then wrap slices in foil with au jus, broth, or stock. Place the foil packet in the steamer and steam for 3 to 6 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Slow Cooker: Place the prime rib in the slow cooker with au jus or stock. Cover and cook on low, checking the temperature every 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Stove: Preheat a skillet to medium-high heat. Add beef broth or au jus to the skillet, along with slices of prime rib. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, adding more broth if needed, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Slicing and seasoning

Slicing:

Before slicing, it is important to let the prime rib rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat. The resting time can vary from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of the roast.

When slicing the prime rib, use a sharp knife and cut against the grain. This technique ensures the meat remains tender. Slice the prime rib into thin, even pieces. If you plan to reheat the prime rib later, medium-thickness slices are recommended to prevent overcooking.

Seasoning:

Seasoning prime rib is an art that enhances the natural flavours of the beef. Here are some classic seasoning options and techniques:

Classic Seasonings:

• Salt: Coarse sea salt or kosher salt is recommended for optimal flavour distribution.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds warmth and a subtle kick to the dish.
• Garlic Powder: It provides a pungent flavour that adds depth and complexity to the seasoning blend.
• Onion Powder: This imparts a subtle sweetness and savoury notes to the meat.
• Thyme: The earthy and slightly minty flavour of thyme complements the richness of the beef.
• Rosemary: The piney and fragrant aroma of rosemary adds elegance to the seasoning.

Seasoning Techniques:

• Dry Rub: Combine the seasonings in a small bowl and rub them evenly over the meat surface. This allows the seasonings to penetrate deeply, resulting in a flavourful crust.
• Wet Rub: Mix the seasonings with a small amount of oil or butter to create a paste. Apply this paste to the prime rib for a more intense flavour and to prevent the meat from drying out during cooking.
• Herb and Spice Crust: For a bolder flavour, combine the seasonings with breadcrumbs, chopped herbs, or ground nuts. Press this mixture onto the prime rib to create a crispy and flavourful exterior.

Additionally, marinating the prime rib before cooking is highly recommended. Soak the meat in a blend of herbs, spices, and oil to allow the seasonings to penetrate deeply and tenderize the meat. Marinating times can vary from several hours to overnight, depending on your desired level of flavour and tenderness.

Remember, the choice of seasonings and techniques is a matter of personal preference and experimentation. Feel free to adjust and combine different seasonings to create your unique blend!

Air fryer temperature

Yes, you can reheat prime rib in an air fryer. However, it is important to note that an air fryer works best for prime rib roasts that haven't been sliced. This is because the stronger heat of the air fryer will dry out slices relatively quickly, resulting in an undesirable outcome.

To reheat prime rib in an air fryer, follow these steps:

• Remove the meat from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before reheating for optimal results.
• Preheat the air fryer to 225°F (107°C).
• Wrap the roast or slices in aluminium foil (with no overlapping). Add 1/4 to 1/3 cup of leftover beef au jus or stock before sealing shut.
• Place the prime rib in the air fryer and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Check the temperature every 10 minutes to ensure the meat doesn't overcook. For a large roast, you can start testing the temperature after 15 minutes.

The hot circulating air in the air fryer will reheat the prime rib evenly without altering its texture. However, there is a potential for moisture loss due to the stronger heat, so it is important to monitor the meat closely during the reheating process.

Reheating time

To ensure the prime rib doesn't dry out, it is important to wrap the meat in aluminium foil with 1/4-1/3 cup of au jus, beef broth, or stock before placing it in the air fryer. If you are reheating slices, arrange them in a single layer and seal the foil before placing it in the air fryer. Check the temperature of the prime rib every 10 minutes to ensure it doesn't overcook. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

If you are reheating a whole prime rib, it is recommended to slice it into medium-sized slices before placing it in the air fryer. This will ensure even heating and prevent the outside from drying out before the inside is warmed through.

It is also important to note that the reheating time may vary depending on the make and model of your air fryer, so adjust the time and temperature accordingly.

Serving suggestions

If you're looking for serving suggestions for your reheated prime rib, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Sandwiches: Try a Philly Cheesesteak, Italian Beef, French Dip, or a simple prime rib sandwich with warm bread rolls.
• Soups or stews: Beef Bourguignon or a hearty beef stew would be a delicious way to use your reheated prime rib.
• Pasta dishes: Beef Stroganoff or Beef Wellington are classic options that would be elevated by the addition of prime rib.
• Quesadillas: Surprise your taste buds with a prime rib quesadilla, a unique twist on the classic Mexican dish.
• Meal prep bowls: Combine your reheated prime rib with roasted vegetables and cooked whole grains for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
• Salads: Slice your reheated prime rib thinly and serve it cold on a bed of fresh greens, with your choice of dressings and toppings.
• Hash: Cube your leftover prime rib and combine it with leftover potatoes, thyme, and diced bacon for a hearty hash. Top it off with a fried egg for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
• Stir-fry: Slice your prime rib into strips and stir-fry it with onions, peppers, and your choice of seasonings for a quick and tasty meal.
• Fried rice: Cube your leftover prime rib and mix it into your favourite fried rice recipe for an Asian-inspired dish.
• Steak and eggs: Reheat your prime rib in the air fryer and serve it with fried eggs for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.
• French dip: Thinly slice your prime rib and dip it into hot au jus or gravy for a classic French dip sandwich.
• Beef stroganoff: Use your leftover prime rib to elevate this classic Russian dish.
• Tacos: Chop up your leftover prime rib and use it as a tasty filling for tacos. Add your favourite toppings and enjoy!
• Skillet dishes: Try a blackened seasoning blend on your prime rib and sear it in a hot skillet for a flavourful option.

Remember, when reheating prime rib in an air fryer, it is best to keep the roast whole rather than slicing it into pieces, as the stronger heat of the air fryer can dry out the slices. Also, ensure that you preheat your air fryer to 225°F (107°C) and wrap the roast in aluminium foil with a small amount of au jus, beef broth, or stock before placing it in the air fryer. Check the temperature of the meat every 10 minutes to ensure it doesn't overcook, and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Frequently asked questions