Fire-Roasted Alaska Spruce Grouse on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Experience the bold flavors of Alaska with this fire-roasted spruce grouse, grilled whole over an open flame on the Arteflame grill. The intense heat of the center grill grate at 1,000F locks in the juices, while the flat cooktop griddle provides perfect even cooking. This rustic and smoky dish captures the essence of outdoor cooking, delivering a tender and flavorful meal that's impressive and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 whole spruce grouse, cleaned and patted dry
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, halved
• Firewood (for the Arteflame grill)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour a little vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins inside the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the paper napkins and allow the fire to develop.
5. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach optimal cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the spruce grouse

1. Brush the whole spruce grouse with melted butter.
2. Season generously with sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chopped rosemary.
3. Rub the minced garlic over the bird.
4. Stuff the cavity with the lemon halves for added flavor.

Step 3: Sear the grouse on the center grill

1. Place the grouse directly on the center grill grate.
2. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side to lock in juices.
3. Rotate occasionally to get an even char.

Step 4: Slow roast on the flat griddle cooktop

1. Move the seared grouse to the outer flat cooktop zone.
2. Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165F.
3. Remove from the heat at 150F as the meat will continue to cook while resting.

Step 5: Rest and serve

1. Let the grouse rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
2. Carve and serve with grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes.

Tips

• Use fresh firewood for a clean, smoky flavor.
• Brush extra melted butter on the grouse as it cooks for enhanced richness.
• Rotate the grouse on the griddle to ensure even cooking.

Variations

1. Herb-Infused Grouse: Add thyme and sage to the seasoning mix for deeper herbal notes.
2. Citrus Zest Grouse: Use orange and lime zest along with lemon for a citrusy twist.
3. Spicy Grouse: Add cayenne pepper and chili flakes for an extra kick.
4. Maple-Glazed Grouse: Brush with a maple syrup glaze for a sweet-savory taste.
5. Smoked Bacon Wrapped Grouse: Wrap the grouse in smoked bacon for added richness.

Conclusion

Fire-roasted spruce grouse on an Arteflame grill is an impressive and delicious way to enjoy wild game. The intense heat sears in juices while the flat cooktop cooks the bird to perfection. Try it for your next outdoor feast!

Best Pairings

• Grilled root vegetables
• Charred corn on the cob
• Smoky baked beans
• Rustic sourdough bread
• A robust red wine or dark ale