Ancho chili peppers -- the dried version of the mildly spicy poblano -- add a zesty touch to this mouthwatering prime rib recipe.

Ancho-Rubbed Prime Rib with Grilled Papaya Butter

1 (4-pound) beef rib roast
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons finely ground ancho chili peppers or dark chili powder
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
Grilled Papaya Butter (see recipe below)

1. Rub beef with the coarse salt and black pepper. Brush with oil. Combine ground ancho peppers or chili powder and cocoa powder in a small bowl. Rub mixture into beef, evenly coating the entire surface.
2. Prepare grill for indirect grilling. Test for medium heat above drip pan. Place roast on the grill rack, bone side down, directly over drip pan. Cover and grill for 2 to 2 1/4 hours or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest portion reads 155°F (65°C) for medium doneness, turning roast occasionally. Cover and let stand 15 minutes. Cut into individual portions; top with Grilled Papaya Butter.

Makes 12 servings.

Grilled Papaya Butter:

1. Peel and seed 1/2 of a small papaya; cut into thick slices. Lightly brush slices with vegetable oil. Grill papaya slices over medium-high heat for 5 minutes, turning once. Set aside. Soften 1 pound salted butter (no substitutes).
2. Finely chop papaya; stir into butter. Spoon mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Roll into a log, twisting ends closed. Chill for 2 hours or until firm. Cut into 1/4 to 1/2-inch-thick slices to serve. Reserve remaining papaya and papaya butter for another use.

Makes 8 to 10 servings.

Nutritional facts per serving: calories: 470, total fat: 41g, saturated fat: 19g, cholesterol: 18mg, sodium: 274mg, carbohydrate: 2g, fiber: 1g, protein: 22g, vitamin C: 4%

Recipe provided by Better Homes and Gardens - BHG.com a member of the Home and Family Network for the best of cooking, gardening, decorating and more. © 2003 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved.