Minnesota Wild Blueberry Grilled Pork Loin

Introduction

This Minnesota wild blueberry grilled pork loin is packed with flavor, combining the sweetness of wild blueberries with the smoky richness of firewood grilling. Using the Arteflame grill, this pork loin is reverse-seared to lock in the juices, giving you a tender and perfectly caramelized meal. The high-heat center grill grate provides the perfect sear, while the griddle cooktop ensures even cooking to perfection. Grilling has never been this flavorful or effortless!

Ingredients

• 1 (3-4 lb) pork loin
• 1 cup Minnesota wild blueberries
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins inside the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and let the fire build up.
5. Allow about 20 minutes for the grill to reach optimal searing temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the blueberry glaze

1. On the Arteflame flat top, melt the butter.
2. Add wild blueberries, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and fresh thyme.
3. Let the mixture cook down slightly, stirring gently.
4. Once it thickens, move it to a cooler spot on the griddle to keep warm.

Step 3: Season and sear the pork loin

1. Season the pork loin with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Place the pork loin onto the center grill grate for a high-temperature sear.
3. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms.
4. Move the pork loin to the griddle cooktop away from direct heat.

Step 4: Bring the pork to desired temperature

1. Cook the pork loin on the griddle cooktop at a medium heat zone.
2. Baste it with the prepared blueberry glaze every few minutes.
3. Continue grilling until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium.
4. Remove from the grill at 15°F below the target temperature, as it will continue cooking.

Step 5: Rest and serve

1. Let the pork loin rest for 10 minutes to retain juices.
2. Slice the meat and serve with extra blueberry glaze.

Tips

• For extra smokiness, use hardwood such as oak or hickory.
• Adjust the grilling zones on the flat top to maintain optimal temperature.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Allowing the meat to rest ensures it stays juicy.

Variations

• Spicy Blueberry Pork Loin: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for heat.
• Balsamic Honey Pork Loin: Replace apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar and maple syrup with honey.
• Smoky Chipotle Pork Loin: Add a teaspoon of chipotle powder to the glaze for a smoky heat.
• Garlic Herb Pork Loin: Marinate the pork loin in garlic, rosemary, and thyme before grilling.
• Pineapple Blueberry Pork Loin: Add 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple to the glaze for a tropical twist.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with lemon butter
• Rosemary roasted potatoes on the flat griddle
• Fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
• Charred corn on the griddle with parmesan
• A dry rosé or a light-bodied red wine

Conclusion

This Minnesota wild blueberry grilled pork loin brings out the best flavors using the Arteflame grill’s unique cooking capabilities. The center grill grate provides the perfect sear, while the surrounding griddle ensures a slow and even cook to perfection. This juicy, caramelized pork loin with a tangy blueberry glaze will be the highlight of your grilling adventure!