Garlic and Herb-Crusted Smoked Prime Rib of Beef

This prized melt-in-your-mouth beef cut gets extra smoky flavor from smoldering hickory and grilled fresh herbs.

Rub garlic all over roast, pressing it into the meat.

In a small bowl, combine oil, basil, oregano, parsley, rosemary, and pepper to form a paste; spread paste all over roast. Sprinkle roast with seasoned salt. Wrap the entire prime rib with one layer of cheesecloth to keep the herbs close to the meat.

Place soaked wood chunks directly onto the coals, if using a charcoal grill, or in a smoker box, if using a gas grill. (If you do not have a smoker box, wrap chunks loosely in a heavy-duty foil packet. Poke holes in the foil so the smoke can escape and place packet directly on the Flavorizer Bars of your Weber Gas Barbecue.)

When chunks start smoking, place roast in center of cooking grate. Grill roast for 3-1/2 to 4 hours or until internal temperature reaches 135 ° F (57 ° C). Remove from grill and let prime rib rest 10 to 15 minutes; meat will continue to cook while resting, increasing an additional 10 degrees to reach medium rare (145 ° F/63 ° C). Carefully remove cheesecloth before carving.

Makes 32 to 36 servings.