Grilling the Perfect Salmon in Japanese BBQ Sauce on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction:

Grilling salmon on the Arteflame Grill is a delightful culinary experience that enhances the natural flavors of this delicious fish. Marinating the salmon in a Japanese BBQ sauce adds a savory and slightly sweet twist that perfectly complements the rich taste of salmon. Using the reverse searing method, you’ll lock in the juices with a perfect sear on the center grill grate and finish cooking on the flat cooktop to achieve your desired doneness. This guide will help you create a flavorful and visually stunning salmon dish that will impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 4 Salmon Fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz each)
• Coarse Sea Salt
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
• 2 tbsp Mirin
• 1 tbsp Sake
• 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tsp Grated Ginger
• 1 tsp Grated Garlic
• Butter (optional, for coating)
• Fresh Green Onions and Sesame Seeds (for garnish)
• (Alternatively: Use Bachan's Japanese Barbecue Sauce)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Japanese BBQ Sauce and Salmon:

   • In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, grated ginger, and grated garlic to create the Japanese BBQ sauce.
   • Remove the salmon fillets from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before grilling to reach room temperature for even cooking.
   • Pat the fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
   • Season generously with coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Optionally, lightly coat with butter to enhance the flavor.
   • Brush the salmon fillets with the Japanese BBQ sauce and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

2. Fire Up the Arteflame Grill:

   • Clean your Arteflame Grill to ensure a pure grilling flavor.
   • Start the fire early to get it ready for grilling, allowing it to burn down to a bed of hot coals suitable for both searing and indirect cooking.

3. Grill the Salmon:

   • Sear the salmon fillets over the center grill grate at over 1,000F for about 2-3 minutes on the skin side to create a rich, caramelized crust.
   • Move the salmon fillets to a cooler zone of the flat cooktop and continue cooking using indirect heat to your desired level of doneness. For medium, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F.
   • If need be, cut the salmon filet in the middle to check for doneness.  You want pink in the middle, you don't want it cooked!  The salmon will continue cooking after you remove it from the grill so don't overcook it.
   • Brush the salmon fillets with additional Japanese BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.

4. Rest the Salmon:

   • Transfer the grilled salmon fillets to a plate and let them rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the fish.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the salmon fillets with your favorite sides. Garnish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds for an added aromatic touch.

Tips for Grilling Salmon:

• Season Generously: The rich flavor of salmon benefits from ample seasoning to ensure flavor in every bite.
• Monitor the Temperature: Using a meat thermometer is crucial for achieving the perfect doneness without overcooking.
• Let it Rest: Giving your salmon fillets time to rest is essential for a juicy outcome.
• High Heat for Searing: Achieve a perfect sear by utilizing the high heat of the Arteflame Grill.
• Butter vs. Olive Oil: Butter adds a rich flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.

Conclusion:

Grilling salmon in Japanese BBQ sauce on the Arteflame Grill not only delivers unparalleled flavor and tenderness but also turns your meal into an unforgettable culinary event. Embrace the process and enjoy the ultimate salmon experience.

Variants:

1. Spicy Japanese BBQ Salmon:

   • Add 1 tsp of Sriracha or another hot sauce to the Japanese BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.

2. Citrus Japanese BBQ Salmon:

   • Add 1 tbsp of orange juice and some orange zest to the Japanese BBQ sauce for a citrusy twist.

3. Herb-Crusted Japanese BBQ Salmon:

   • Mix finely chopped green onions and cilantro into the Japanese BBQ sauce for an herbaceous twist.

4. Honey-Ginger Japanese BBQ Salmon:

   • Replace the brown sugar with honey for a sweet and tangy flavor, and increase the grated ginger to 2 tsp.

5. Garlic-Lemon Japanese BBQ Salmon:

   • Add 1 tbsp of lemon juice and 1 tsp of lemon zest to the Japanese BBQ sauce, and increase the grated garlic to 2 tsp.

Best Drinks to Accompany Japanese BBQ Salmon:

• Sake: A traditional Japanese rice wine that pairs well with the flavors of the BBQ sauce.
• Chardonnay: Its buttery and slightly oaky flavors complement the rich, savory taste of the salmon.
• Green Tea: A non-alcoholic option that adds a refreshing, earthy note.
• Sparkling Water with Lime: A light, bubbly drink to cleanse the palate.

Best Appetizer:

• Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt for a simple and healthy appetizer.

Best Dessert:

• Green Tea Ice Cream: A refreshing and light dessert that complements the flavors of the Japanese BBQ salmon.