Perfectly Grilled Colorado Bison Ribeye: A Rustic Arteflame Feast

Introduction

Cooking bison is an art form that bridges the gap between rugged, outdoor heritage and refined, gourmet dining. Unlike traditional beef, Colorado bison offers a sweeter, richer flavor profile that is naturally leaner and packed with nutrients. Because of this lower fat content, the margin for error is slimmer; overcooking can quickly lead to a dry steak. However, when treated with respect and grilled over a wood fire, the result is nothing short of spectacular. This recipe utilizes the unique heat zones of the Arteflame grill to achieve a steakhouse-quality crust while keeping the inside tender and succulent. Whether you are a game meat aficionado or a curious first-timer, this approach ensures your ribeye remains juicy, highlighting the meat's natural, earthy essence without masking it. Get ready to elevate your backyard culinary game with a dish that truly celebrates the spirit of the American West.

Ingredients

The Meat

• 2 Colorado Bison Ribeye Steaks (approx. 1.5 inches thick)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (high smoke point)

The Seasoning & Aromatics

• 2 tbsp Coarse Sea Salt (or Kosher salt)
• 1 tbsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
• 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (high quality, room temperature)
• 4 Cloves Garlic (smashed, skins removed)
• 2 Sprigs Fresh Rosemary
• 2 Sprigs Fresh Thyme

Instructions

Step 1: Temper and Season the Meat

1. Remove the bison ribeyes from the refrigerator at least 30 to 45 minutes before cooking. Bringing the meat to room temperature ensures even cooking throughout the steak.
2. Pat the steaks completely dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
3. Rub a light coat of olive oil over the steaks, then season generously with coarse sea salt and cracked black pepper on all sides, pressing the seasoning into the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Build a medium-sized fire in the center of your Arteflame grill. You want to establish a bed of hot coals to heat the cooktop.
2. Allow the flat steel cooktop to heat up. You are looking for a very high temperature on the center grill grate (for searing) and a medium-high temperature on the flat steel surface (for finishing).
3. Clean the cooktop surface with a scraper and apply a thin layer of oil to season the steel just before cooking.

Step 3: The Hard Sear

1. Place the bison ribeyes directly onto the center grill grate, right over the open fire. This is the hottest zone.
2. Sear for about 1-2 minutes per side. You are looking for a deep, mahogany crust and distinct grill marks. Do not leave it too long, as bison cooks much faster than beef due to the lack of intramuscular fat.

Step 4: Butter Basting and Finishing

1. Move the steaks from the center grate to the flat steel cooktop. This area provides radiant heat to finish the cooking process more gently.
2. Place a knob of butter, the smashed garlic cloves, rosemary, and thyme directly onto the cooktop next to the steaks, or on top of the steaks if you prefer.
3. As the butter melts and foams with the herbs, slide the steaks through the aromatic mixture. Flip them occasionally to baste them in the herb-infused butter.
4. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for rare or 130°F for medium-rare. Bison is best enjoyed medium-rare; cooking past medium is not recommended.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the steaks from the grill immediately once they hit temperature.
2. Place them on a cutting board and tent loosely with foil.
3. Let the meat rest for at least 8 to 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute back into the muscle fibers, ensuring every bite is juicy.

Tips

When grilling bison, the most critical rule is to watch your internal temperature closely. Bison is incredibly lean compared to domestic cattle, meaning it cooks roughly 30% faster. While a beef ribeye might forgive a few extra minutes on the heat, bison will become tough if pushed past medium. Using an instant-read meat thermometer is your best insurance policy for a perfect meal. Additionally, because the fat cap on a bison ribeye is tasty but dense, you can hold the steak vertically with tongs against the flat cooktop to render that edge fat crispy. Finally, never skip the resting phase. Cutting into the meat too early will cause all those precious, savory juices to run out onto the board rather than staying inside the steak where they belong.

Variations

While the classic salt, pepper, and herb butter approach is timeless, bison’s robust flavor can handle a variety of creative twists. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit different palates or seasonal ingredients. Here are a few ways to mix things up without overshadowing the quality of the meat:

• Coffee Rub: Mix espresso powder with brown sugar, chili powder, and cumin for a smoky, earthy crust that pairs beautifully with the gamey notes.
• Chimichurri Topping: Skip the butter baste and top the sliced steak with a fresh, acidic sauce made of parsley, oregano, garlic, vinegar, and chili flakes.
• Blue Cheese Crust: In the last minute of cooking on the flat top, crumble high-quality blue cheese over the steak and let it partially melt.
• Spicy Cajun Style: Use a blackening spice blend and sear heavily for a New Orleans-inspired kick.
• Mushroom Compound Butter: Blend sautéed porcini or truffle oil into your finishing butter for an umami explosion.

Best pairings

A meal this magnificent deserves sides and drinks that complement its richness without competing for attention. Since bison is leaner and slightly sweeter than beef, you want pairings that add moisture or acidity. For wine lovers, a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a spicy Malbec from Argentina stands up well to the iron-rich flavor of the meat. If you prefer beer, a dark Porter or Stout echoes the char from the grill. On the plate, think about textures and earthy flavors that mirror the outdoors.

• Grilled Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes roasted on the Arteflame flat top until caramelized.
• Garlic Confit Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes help balance the lean texture of the steak.
• Charred Asparagus: Tossed with lemon zest and parmesan to cut through the richness.
• Wild Mushroom Risotto: Enhances the woodsy, natural flavor of the bison.

Conclusion

Grilling a Colorado Bison Ribeye on an Arteflame is more than just preparing dinner; it is a celebration of American ingredients and fire-based cooking. By respecting the lean nature of the meat and utilizing the distinct heat zones of your grill, you achieve a steak that is tender, flavorful, and perfectly seared. This recipe proves that you don't need heavy marinades or complicated techniques to make a world-class meal. With good fire management, quality salt, and a little patience, you can produce a steakhouse-quality experience right in your backyard. Gather your friends, pour the wine, and enjoy the unmatched taste of grilled bison.