Smoky Norwegian Barbecued Whale Meat Skewers

Cooking whale meat might seem like a daunting task to the uninitiated, but in Norwegian cuisine, it is a celebrated tradition known for its incredible tenderness and rich, gamey flavor that rivals the finest cuts of venison or aged beef. When prepared correctly—especially on the high-heat sear of an Arteflame grill—the result is a succulent, steak-like experience that melts in your mouth. The secret lies in a quick sear and ensuring you do not overcook this incredibly lean protein, which contains almost no fat marbling. This recipe for Norwegian Barbecued Whale Meat Skewers embraces Nordic simplicity, utilizing a robust marinade to enhance the natural savory notes of the meat while ensuring it stays moist. Whether you are looking to honor your heritage or simply exploring sustainable, wild-caught proteins, this dish offers a unique culinary adventure right in your backyard, bringing the flavors of the North Sea to your grill.

Ingredients

The Meat & Skewers

• 1.5 lbs (700g) Whale meat (Minke is preferred), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large Red onion, cut into thick chunks
• 1 Red bell pepper, deseeded and cut into squares
• 1 Yellow bell pepper, deseeded and cut into squares
• 8-10 Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes) or metal skewers

The Nordic Marinade

• 1/2 cup Soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves Garlic, finely minced
• 1 tbsp Fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp Juniper berries, crushed (optional, for authentic Nordic flavor)
• 1 tsp Coarsely ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Meat

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, crushed juniper berries, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to combine.
2. Place the cubed whale meat into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate. Let the meat marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours to preserve the meat's texture.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

1. Prepare your Arteflame grill by building a fire in the center. You want a very hot fire to ensure the center grate reaches searing temperatures (above 600°F).
2. Allow the flat cooktop griddle to heat up evenly. Brush the cooktop with a thin layer of vegetable oil to season it and prevent sticking.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. Remove the meat from the marinade and discard the excess liquid.
2. Thread the ingredients onto the skewers, alternating between a cube of meat, a piece of red onion, and a piece of bell pepper. Repeat until the skewer is full but not overcrowded.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

1. Place the skewers directly over the center grill grate for a high-heat sear. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side. You want a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside red to pink.
2. If the vegetables need more time but the meat is done, move the skewers to the outer flat cooktop where the heat is more moderate to finish cooking the peppers and onions without overcooking the meat.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the skewers from the grill immediately once the meat reaches medium-rare.
2. Let the skewers rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Tips

Working with whale meat requires a slightly different approach than beef because it lacks intramuscular fat. The most critical tip for success is to avoid overcooking it at all costs; whale meat should be served medium-rare. If cooked to well-done, it becomes tough, dry, and liver-like in texture. High heat is your best friend here, which is why the Arteflame is the ideal tool for the job—it provides that intense sear without baking the meat. Additionally, if you are using wooden skewers, do not skip the soaking step. Because you are grilling over an open flame at high temperatures, dry wood will catch fire instantly and ruin the presentation. Finally, the use of crushed juniper berries in the marinade is highly recommended if you can find them; their piney, citrusy aroma pairs perfectly with the gamey profile of the meat and adds an authentic Scandinavian touch.

Variations

While the traditional preparation focuses on highlighting the natural flavor of the meat, there are several exciting ways to customize this dish. If you prefer a sweeter profile, replace the soy sauce marinade with a Teriyaki glaze, basting the skewers during the last minute of grilling on the flat cooktop. for those who enjoy heat, add a tablespoon of crushed chili flakes or cayenne powder to the marinade to cut through the richness of the meat. You can also experiment with the vegetables; substituting bell peppers for cherry tomatoes or zucchini rounds adds a different texture and moisture content. Another popular variation involves wrapping the whale meat cubes in thin strips of bacon before skewering; the bacon fat renders out and bastes the lean meat, adding a smoky, salty layer that guarantees juiciness even if you accidentally overcook it slightly.

• Asian Fusion: Use Teriyaki sauce and sesame oil.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes and paprika to the marinade.
• Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap meat cubes in bacon for added fat.
• Forest Style: Add wild mushrooms to the skewers.
• Minimalist: Skip the marinade; use only sea salt and pepper.

Best pairings

To create a balanced meal that complements the rich, steak-like flavor of the whale meat, you should look toward traditional Norwegian sides. A classic creamy potato salad with dill and chives is perhaps the most authentic accompaniment, providing a cool, starchy contrast to the hot, savory meat. Grilled root vegetables, such as carrots or parsnips cooked on the flat top of your Arteflame, also pair beautifully, bringing out earthy sweetness. For a condiment, a side of lingonberry jam is surprisingly effective; the tart acidity cuts through the iron-rich taste of the meat, much like it does with Swedish meatballs or venison. Beverage-wise, this dish screams for a crisp, cold Pilsner or a light lager to cleanse the palate. If you prefer wine, opt for a light-bodied red like a Pinot Noir or a Gamay that won't overpower the delicate game flavors.

Conclusion

Grilling whale meat skewers on the Arteflame is more than just cooking a meal; it is an immersion into a deep-rooted Nordic culinary tradition. By treating this unique protein with the respect it deserves—marinating it well, searing it hard, and keeping it rare—you unlock a flavor profile that is both sophisticated and primal. The combination of smoky char, savory soy marinade, and the natural sweetness of roasted peppers creates a dish that is sure to be a conversation starter at your next barbecue. We hope this guide gives you the confidence to step outside your culinary comfort zone and try something truly distinct. Remember, the key is the heat and the timing. Enjoy the process, savor the aromas, and gather your friends for a truly unforgettable Norwegian feast.