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Peanut Harissa Pork Ribs

I found these meaty petite spare ribs precut at the market and snatched them up.  I combined peanut from African cuisine with Harissa chili sauce from Mediterranean North Africa to make a spicy glaze with plenty of umami.  But clearly there are Asian flavor notes as well.  This is truly fusion cuisine; and what cuisine doesn't like ribs?

You could use this grilling sauce on any number of different types of ribs, chicken, or tofu if you prefer.
1-1/2 lb pork spare ribs

Marinade:
2 Tbsp sesame oil
2 Tbsp soy sauce
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch fresh garlic, peeled and finely minced

Grilling Sauce:
2 Tbsp peanut butter
2 tbsp hoisin sauce
2 Tbsp sesame oil
2 Tbsp Harissa, Tunisian chili sauce, or other favorite hot sauce
2 Tbsp seasoned rice vinegar

Mix the marinade together in a large bowl.  Add the ribs and marinate at least an hour, or longer in the refrigerator. Whisk together the grilling sauce in a small bowl.


When ready to cook, heat grill to high and return ribs to room temperature.  Grill ribs 3-5 minutes per side, turning often, or until well cooked through.  For the last 3-5 minutes or so, slather the ribs with the sauce and turn them on the heat to glaze all sides.

Serves 4.

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