Japanese Soy-Mirin Grilled Pacific Saury

Introduction

Enjoy a delicious Japanese-style grilled Pacific saury, marinated in a flavorful soy sauce and mirin blend. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill, this dish brings out the natural umami flavors of the fish while achieving a crispy, golden exterior. With the high-temperature sear of the center grill grate and the even heat of the flat cooktop, this traditional meal is both easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty.

Ingredients

• 4 fresh Pacific saury
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 1 tablespoon sake
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Butter for grilling
• Chopped green onions for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Get the Arteflame Grill Ready

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins inside the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to build up.
4. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach an optimal grilling temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Pacific Saury

1. Clean and gut the Pacific saury if not already prepared.
2. Rinse the fish with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season the saury with salt to help bring out its natural flavors.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, grated ginger, and sugar.
2. Mix well until sugar dissolves.
3. Place the saury in the marinade and let it soak for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Grill the Pacific Saury

1. Brush butter onto the flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill.
2. Remove fish from the marinade and allow excess marinade to drip off.
3. Place the fish on the flat cooktop, closer to the center for higher heat.
4. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
5. Move the fish to a slightly cooler part of the cooktop to finish cooking.
6. Once the internal temperature reaches 15°F below desired doneness, remove from grill.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the grilled Pacific saury with chopped green onions on top.
2. Serve with lemon wedges for added freshness.
3. Enjoy with a bowl of steamed rice and miso soup.

Tips

• Use fresh Pacific saury for the best flavor and texture.
• Marinating too long can overpower the delicate taste of the fish.
• Use butter instead of oil for a richer taste.
• Avoid flipping too often to allow a perfect sear.
• Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

1. Spicy Miso: Add a tablespoon of miso paste and chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy, umami-rich version.
2. Citrus Soy: Mix yuzu juice into the marinade for a refreshing, citrusy twist.
3. Ginger Garlic: Increase the ginger amount and add minced garlic for a more pungent flavor.
4. Teriyaki Glazed: Brush teriyaki sauce over the fish while grilling for a glossy, flavorful finish.
5. Sesame Crusted: Coat the fish lightly with sesame seeds before grilling for added texture.

Best Pairings

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Miso soup
• Grilled vegetables (zucchini, mushrooms, eggplant)
• Japanese pickles
• Chilled sake or green tea

Conclusion

Grilling Pacific saury on the Arteflame brings out its full potential, creating a crispy, flavorful dish with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy it with simple garnishes or explore different marinades, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of Japanese cuisine.