COOK LIKE A PITMASTER FROM THE COMFORTS OF HOME

SMOKED CHUCK BEEF RIBS

Cook time: 10 hours, 30 minutes • Servings: 8

• 1 slab beef chuck short ribs (about 4 pounds)

• 2 tablespoons kosher salt

• 2 tablespoons coarse black pepper

• 1/4 cup cider vinegar

• 1 cup water

Preheat smoker or pellet grill to 275 F.

Pat ribs dry with paper towel; remove moisture on surface.

Combine salt and pepper. Rub beef ribs well on all sides and ends with seasoning, coating generously.

Place ribs in smoker and close lid. Cook 5-6 hours.

In spray bottle, combine cider vinegar and water. Lightly spritz ribs every 30 minutes for first 4 hours of cooking.

Ribs are ready when completely probe tender. If parts still feel tough, continue cooking.

Once completely tender, remove ribs from smoker then wrap tightly in butcher’s paper and place in small cooler to rest 30 minutes.

To serve, slice ribs between bones.

GRILLED JALAPENO CHEDDAR MEATBALLS

Cook time: 1 hour, 15 minutes • Servings: 15

• 1/2 cup tortilla chips, crushed

• 3/4 cup milk

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 3 fresh jalapenos, seeded and finely diced

• 1 block (8 ounces) cheddar cheese, finely diced

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

Place crushed tortilla chips in large bowl. Add milk and allow chips to soften about 10 minutes.

After milk is absorbed, add beef, jalapenos, cheese, paprika, garlic and salt. Mix well to combine then scoop approximately 1/3-1/2 cup of mixture to form meatball; repeat with remaining mixture.

Place meatballs on plate or tray and refrigerate 30 minutes to firm.

Heat grill to medium for two zone cooking.

Place meatballs on indirect heat side of grill away from coals or lit burner; close lid. Grill 25-35 minutes, or until meatballs reach 165 F internal temperature on meat thermometer.

Remove meatballs from grill and cool slightly before serving.