Massachusetts Codfish Steaks with Herb Butter on the Grill

Introduction

Seafood lovers in Massachusetts know that codfish shines when grilled to perfection. This recipe takes thick codfish steaks, seasons them with fresh herbs, and grills them on the Arteflame at high heat for a perfect crust before finishing on the griddle cooktop. Topped with rich, melted herb butter, this dish is bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 thick codfish steaks (about 1-inch thick)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp butter (for grilling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins and light them.
3. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Make the herb butter

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, parsley, dill, garlic powder, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
2. Mix well until evenly blended and set aside.

Step 3: Season the codfish steaks

1. Pat the codfish steaks dry with a paper towel.
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Sear the codfish steaks

1. Place a small amount of butter on the center grill grate.
2. Place the codfish steaks directly on the center grill grate and sear for 2 minutes per side to lock in the juices.

Step 5: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop

1. Move the codfish steaks to the flat cooktop griddle to finish cooking.
2. Cook for another 4-6 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (it will continue to rise after removal).

Step 6: Serve with herb butter

1. Transfer the codfish steaks to a serving plate.
2. Top each steak with a generous dollop of the herb butter.
3. Let the butter melt over the fish before serving.

Tips

• Always remove fish from the grill when it reaches 15°F below your target temperature as it will continue cooking.
• Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
• If codfish sticks, wait a few extra seconds before flipping—it will naturally release when ready.
• Grill lemon slices alongside the cod and squeeze them over the fish for extra zest.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Cod: Add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spicy kick.
2. Garlic Butter Cod: Increase the garlic powder to 1 tsp and add minced garlic to the butter.
3. Lemon Pepper Cod: Use lemon pepper seasoning instead of salt and pepper for a citrusy zing.
4. Asian-Inspired Cod: Swap the herb butter for a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
5. Parmesan Crusted Cod: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on the cod during the last minute of cooking.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with lemon zest
• Buttery mashed potatoes
• Roasted corn on the griddle
• A crisp glass of Chardonnay

Conclusion

Grilling codfish steaks on the Arteflame brings out their natural moisture while achieving a beautiful sear. Paired with herb butter, this dish is rich, flavorful, and perfect for any seafood lover.