Oregon Juniper-Smoked Quail on Arteflame Grill
Introduction
This Oregon Juniper-Smoked Quail recipe is a mouth-watering way to experience game bird grilling at its finest. Grilled entirely on the Arteflame grill, the quail is smoke-kissed with juniper wood and reverse-seared to perfection. The unique methods used here create quail that bursts with bold, earthy flavors and locks in juicy tenderness. Ideal for those looking to master open-fire cooking with a sophisticated touch of the Pacific Northwest.
Ingredients
- 4 semi-boneless whole quail
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp crushed juniper berries
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- Juniper wood (or branches for smoking)
- Vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)
- 3 paper napkins
Instructions
Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
- Pour a small amount of vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the base of your Arteflame grill.
- Stack firewood, including a few small pieces of juniper wood, over the soaked napkins.
- Light the napkins and allow the fire to build, then let the grill heat for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches over 1,000°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Quail
- Season each quail on both sides with salt, pepper, crushed juniper berries, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
- Brush the birds with melted butter for rich flavor and better browning on the griddle.
- Place a small rosemary sprig inside each quail cavity.
Step 3: Sear the Quail
- Place the seasoned quail breast-side down on the center grill grate to sear at high heat (about 1,000°F).
- Sear for about 1-2 minutes per side to achieve a golden-brown crust and lock in the juices.
Step 4: Reverse Sear on the Cooktop
- Move the seared quail to the Arteflame flat cooktop griddle, closer to the outer edge for medium heat.
- Cook the quail until the internal temperature reaches 140°F, then remove it from the grill. The final desired temperature is 155°F, and carryover cooking will finish the job.
- Let the quail rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Use a digital meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Butter gives quail a richer flavor—avoid using olive oil on the quail.
- Move quail around the cooktop to find the best heat zone—closer to center for higher heat, outer edge for finishing.
- Use juniper wood in moderation to prevent bitterness—just a few branches will infuse great flavor.
- Let the quail rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
Variations
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Oregon Pinot-Marinated Quail: Marinate the quail in Oregon Pinot Noir, garlic, and rosemary before grilling for a wine-enhanced depth of flavor.
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Smoked Honey-Mustard Quail: Brush quail with a honey-mustard glaze and smoke with applewood for a sweet-tangy contrast.
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Citrus-Herb Quail: Replace juniper and lemon zest with orange zest and thyme for a brighter flavor profile.
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Chili-Spiced Quail: Add a dry rub of smoked paprika, cayenne, and cumin for a smoky, spicy twist.
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Maple-Bourbon Quail: Glaze with maple syrup and a splash of bourbon during the final minutes on the cooktop for a sweet, caramelized finish.
Conclusion
Juniper-Smoked Quail on the Arteflame Grill brings together Oregon's natural flavors and expert grilling techniques. The reverse sear method ensures juicy, tender meat with that perfect touch of fire-roasted aroma. Easy to light, and truly cleanup-free, grilling on the Arteflame makes this an outdoor culinary experience like no other.
Best pairings
- Grilled wild mushrooms with rosemary butter
- Chilled Oregon Pinot Noir or Syrah
- Grilled asparagus with lemon and crushed hazelnuts
- Roasted fingerling potatoes with smoked paprika
- Crusty sourdough bread grilled on the Arteflame cooktop