Grilled Maine Charred Oysters with Bacon Butter

Introduction

Grilled Maine oysters with bacon butter are an impressive yet easy delicacy that takes full advantage of the Arteflame grill's perfect heat distribution. The result? Buttery, smoky, and mouthwateringly delicious oysters that taste like they came straight from a high-end seafood restaurant.

Ingredients

• 12 fresh Maine oysters, shucked
• 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins, place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the bacon butter

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, crumbled bacon, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Grill the oysters

1. Place the fresh-shucked oysters directly on the outer edge of the flat cooktop.
2. Add a small dollop of bacon butter on each oyster.
3. Let them cook for about 3-5 minutes until the butter melts and bubbles.

Step 4: Serve and enjoy

1. Use tongs to carefully remove the oysters from the grill.
2. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Tips

• For extra smokiness, add a small wood chunk near the center grill grate.
• Use the hottest outer section of the cooktop to prevent overcooking.
• Avoid over-seasoning—the natural sweetness of Maine oysters shines on its own.

Variations

1. Spicy Sriracha Oysters: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha to the bacon butter for some heat.
2. Herb Butter Oysters: Swap bacon for a tablespoon of fresh thyme and chives.
3. Parmesan Pesto Oysters: Mix 1 tbsp pesto and shredded parmesan into the butter mixture.
4. Smoky Chipotle Oysters: Add 1/2 tsp chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
5. Garlic Butter Oysters: Double the garlic and add a splash of white wine.

Best pairings

• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño.
• Serve with grilled baguette slices for soaking up the buttery juices.
• Complement with a light salad with arugula and citrus dressing.

Conclusion

Grilled Maine oysters with bacon butter are an impressive yet easy delicacy that takes full advantage of the Arteflame grill's perfect heat distribution. The result? Buttery, smoky, and mouthwateringly delicious oysters that taste like they came straight from a high-end seafood restaurant.