How long to defrost a 15 pound rib roast of beef?

You'll need 3 to 4 days to safely defrost a 15-pound rib roast of beef in the refrigerator.

Here's a breakdown:

* Refrigerator: The safest and most recommended method. Allow approximately 24 hours per 5 pounds of meat. So, a 15-pound roast will take 36-48 hours to defrost.

* Cold Water: This method is faster but less ideal for large cuts like a rib roast. Submerge the roast in a container of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. It will take about 30 minutes per pound to defrost, or about 7.5 hours for your 15-pound roast.

Important Safety Tips:

* Never defrost at room temperature. This creates a "danger zone" where bacteria can grow rapidly.

* Keep the roast in its original packaging or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will help prevent moisture loss and cross-contamination.

* Always check the internal temperature of the roast to ensure it's fully defrosted before cooking.

Hope this helps!