Canadian Caribou Skewers with Berry Glaze on Arteflame

Introduction

Caribou skewers glazed in a luscious wild berry reduction, reverse-seared to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The center grill grate sears at 1,000°F for a steakhouse-quality crust, while the surrounding griddle ensures even cooking. This recipe delivers an unparalleled balance of flavors, with smoky, juicy caribou complemented by sweet and tangy berries.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs caribou meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup mixed wild berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire heat the grill for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the berry glaze

1. On the hot Arteflame cooktop, add the wild berries.
2. Mash them slightly with a spatula and let them cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
4. Let the glaze simmer until it thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Remove from the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Skewer and season the meat

1. Thread the cubed caribou meat onto skewers.
2. Season with salt and black pepper on all sides.

Step 4: Sear the caribou

1. Place the skewers on the center grill grate for a high-heat sear at 1,000°F.
2. Sear each side for about 1 minute to lock in juices.

Step 5: Finish cooking on the griddle

1. Move the seared skewers to the surrounding griddle cooktop for even cooking.
2. Brush the berry glaze over the skewers and cook, turning occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 125°F (for medium-rare).
3. Remove the skewers from the grill when they are 15°F below the target temperature as they will continue to cook.

Step 6: Serve

1. Let the skewers rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Drizzle extra berry glaze over them before enjoying.

Tips

• Use metal skewers to avoid burning wooden ones.
• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Control doneness by moving skewers closer or further from the fire on the flat cooktop.

Variations

1. Spicy Berry Glaze: Add 1 tsp crushed red pepper to the berry glaze for a spicy kick.
2. Herb-Infused Caribou: Mix finely chopped rosemary and thyme into the seasoning for added depth.
3. Citrus Berry Twist: Add 1 tbsp orange zest to the glaze for a fruity contrast.
4. Maple Bourbon Glaze: Replace balsamic vinegar with 1 tbsp bourbon for a smokier caramelized flavor.
5. Garlic Butter Finish: Brush the skewers with melted garlic butter after grilling for extra richness.

Best Pairings

• Roasted root vegetables grilled on the Arteflame cooktop.
• Wild rice pilaf for an earthy complement.
• Full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Grilled asparagus with butter for a crisp contrast.

Conclusion

This grilled caribou skewer recipe showcases the power of the Arteflame grill to create tender and flavorful bites with a perfect sear. The wild berry glaze adds a rich, tangy-sweet dimension that enhances the natural flavors of the caribou meat.