Introduction
Experience authentic Portuguese flavors with this charcoal-grilled sea bream. Seasoned simply with sea salt and butter, the fish is grilled whole on the Arteflame for a perfectly crispy skin and juicy, delicate flesh. The result? A restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home.
Ingredients
- 1 whole sea bream (cleaned and gutted)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp sea salt
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Get the Arteflame grill ready for grilling
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
- Place the soaked napkins inside the grill.
- Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
- Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach optimal cooking temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the fish
- Pat the sea bream dry with paper towels.
- Score the skin with a sharp knife.
- Rub melted butter over the entire fish.
- Season generously with sea salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Sear the fish on the center grill grate
- Place the fish on the center grill grate at 1,000°F.
- Grill each side for about 2 minutes to get a beautiful crust.
Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop
- Move the fish to the flat cooktop to cook evenly.
- Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Check the internal temperature, removing it at 130°F (it will carryover cook to 145°F).
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer the fish to a serving platter.
- Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley.
- Enjoy with your favorite side dishes.
Tips
- Scoring the skin helps get a crispier texture and better seasoning penetration.
- Use a fish spatula to handle the fish carefully and prevent tearing.
- Always remove the fish at 130°F since carryover cooking will bring it to 145°F.
- For a smokier flavor, add some wood chips to the fire.
Variations
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Garlic Butter Sea Bream: Add minced garlic and fresh thyme to the melted butter before brushing on the fish.
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Spicy Portuguese Sea Bream: Sprinkle paprika and chili flakes for an extra kick.
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Citrus Infused Sea Bream: Mix melted butter with orange and lemon zest for a bright flavor.
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Herb Crusted Sea Bream: Coat the fish in a mix of crushed rosemary, oregano, and parsley.
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Mediterranean Grilled Sea Bream: Stuff the cavity with sliced tomatoes, olives, and basil.
Conclusion
The Arteflame grill makes grilling whole Portuguese-style sea bream easy, locking in flavor and juiciness. Perfectly crispy skin, buttery texture, and smokey goodness—give this recipe a try for a true restaurant-quality experience!
Best pairings
- Grilled Mediterranean vegetables
- Simple lemon rice
- Portuguese-style roasted potatoes
- Crisp white wine like Vinho Verde
- Fresh arugula salad