BBQ Smoked Alaska Eel – Grilled to Perfection

Introduction

Enjoy the rich flavors of BBQ smoked Alaska eel, grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill. This dish delivers a crispy, smoky exterior with a juicy, tender interior, infused with a mouthwatering barbecue glaze. Using the reverse searing method ensures the best flavor and texture in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 fresh Alaska eel fillets
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Wood chunks for added smoky flavor

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
4. Wait about 20 minutes for the center grill grate to reach 1,000°F and the cooktop to be evenly heated.

Step 2: Prepare the eel

1. Rinse the Alaska eel fillets and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Rub each fillet with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar.
3. Let them rest for 10 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate.

Step 3: Sear the eel

1. Place the eel on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F for about 45 seconds per side.
2. Once a crispy crust forms, move the eel to the flat cooktop at a lower heat zone.

Step 4: Cook to perfection

1. Brush the eel fillets with barbecue sauce.
2. Cook gently on the flat cooktop for 5-7 minutes on each side, basting with sauce and butter.
3. Check the internal temperature; remove the eel when it reaches 130°F (it will continue cooking off the grill to reach 145°F).

Step 5: Rest and serve

1. Let the eel rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
2. Slice and serve with additional barbecue sauce if desired.

Tips

• Use wood chunks on the fire for an extra smoky flavor.
• Always let meat rest after grilling to preserve juices.
• The hotter areas near the center cook faster, while the cooler outer zones allow for gentle cooking.

Variations

1. Spicy BBQ Eel: Add 1 tsp of cayenne pepper and a splash of hot sauce to the barbecue glaze.
2. Citrus Herb Eel: Replace barbecue sauce with a mix of lemon juice, honey, and chopped parsley.
3. Asian Teriyaki Eel: Glaze the eel with teriyaki sauce mixed with fresh ginger and sesame seeds.
4. Garlic Butter Eel: Skip the barbecue sauce and use a mix of butter, minced garlic, and fresh basil.
5. Sweet and Savory Eel: Blend barbecue sauce with pineapple juice and a touch of cinnamon for a tropical twist.

Conclusion

Grilling Alaska eel on the Arteflame grill brings out a beautiful smoky flavor with a crispy, perfectly seared crust. Using the reverse searing method ensures the eel remains tender inside while developing an incredible outer texture. Whether you enjoy it with classic barbecue glaze or try a variation, this dish is sure to impress.

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus with garlic butter
• Smoky grilled corn on the cob
• Sweet potato wedges crisped on the Arteflame grill
• Fresh coleslaw for a refreshing balance
• A cold glass of dry white wine or light lager