Spicy Pork Ribs

Christopher Hartfield cuts prep time by marinating ribs in harissa, a Tunisian spice paste. Though North African in origin, it imparts a warm heat that works with the rest of the menu. Prep and Cook Time: 1 hour, plus at least 8 hours marinating time. Notes: Harissa is available at gourmet markets, Middle Eastern markets, and Whole Foods stores. Hartfield recommends marinating the ribs two days ahead, grilling them the day before, and then reheating them on your portable grill at the party.

Step 1

In a small bowl, stir together harissa, lemon juice, and garlic. Set aside.

Step 2

Rinse ribs and pat dry. Use a dull butter knife to loosen thin papery membrane that runs along underside, then pull it off with your fingers. Rub ribs generously on both sides with salt and pepper, then slather all over with harissa rub. Wrap ribs in plastic wrap and marinate, refrigerated, for at least 8 and up to 24 hours.

Step 3

Set up a charcoal or gas grill for medium indirect heat (300° to 350°; you should be able to hold your hand 1 to 2 in. above the hottest area of grill level only 4 to 5 seconds). Place ribs, bone side down, in cooler part of the grill; close lid. Cook, basting gently with beer on both sides every 10 minutes (keep ribs bone side down), until ribs are tender and cooked through and meat has shrunk back from ends of the bones, 40 to 50 minutes total. Try to keep harissa paste on the ribs while basting. Serve ribs hot, with salad.

Step 4

Note: Nutritional analysis is per serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 0

Amount Per Serving
Calories 330Calories from Fat 71

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 26g40%

Saturated Fat 9g45%
Cholesterol 97mg33%
Sodium 242mg11%
Total Carbohydrate 3.2g2%

Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Protein 20g40%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Spicy Pork Ribs