Scottish Hot Smoked Trout Recipe with Lemon & Dill

There is something undeniably primal yet sophisticated about cooking fish over a live wood fire. It harkens back to the rushing rivers of the Scottish Highlands, where the catch of the day is prepared simply to let the natural flavors shine. This Scottish Hot Smoked Trout recipe captures that essence perfectly, utilizing the unique capabilities of the Arteflame grill. Unlike cold smoking, which cures the fish over days, hot smoking cooks the trout gently while infusing it with aromatic wood smoke. The result is a buttery, flaky texture that separates effortlessly from the bone, complemented by the brightness of fresh lemon and the grassy notes of dill.

Using the Arteflame allows you to achieve a perfect balance of heat and smoke. Whether you are searing on the plancha or using a cedar plank on the grill grate, the fire's proximity adds a layer of flavor that a standard oven simply cannot replicate. This dish is elegant enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weekend family meal, bringing a touch of rustic luxury to your outdoor kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 whole rainbow trout (cleaned and gutted) or 4 large trout fillets
• 3 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for a richer flavor)
• 2 fresh lemons (one sliced into rounds, one zested and juiced)
• 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp cracked black pepper
• 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, helps with caramelization)
• Cedar planks (optional, for extra woodsy aroma)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped dill, sea salt, black pepper, and brown sugar.
2. Ensure the mixture is well-emulsified. This mixture will act as both a seasoning and a protective barrier against the high heat.

Step 2: Season the Trout

1. Pat the trout dry with paper towels inside and out. Moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
2. Brush the marinade generously over the flesh of the fish. If using whole trout, stuff the cavity with the lemon slices and a few sprigs of extra dill.
3. Let the fish sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prep the grill.

Step 3: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Build a medium-sized fire in the center of your Arteflame grill. You want to establish a solid coal bed to generate consistent heat and aromatic smoke.
2. Allow the flat cooktop griddle to heat up. You are looking for a medium-high heat zone (roughly 350°F - 400°F).
3. If using cedar planks, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to putting them on the grill to prevent burning.

Step 4: The Hot Smoke Process

1. Method A (Direct on Griddle): Add a little oil to the plancha surface. Place the trout skin-side down. The skin will crisp up beautifully. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin releases easily. Flip carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.
2. Method B (Plank Smoking): Place the soaked cedar plank directly on the flat cooktop or the center grill grate. Place the trout on the plank. Close the lid (if available) or cover loosely with foil to trap the smoke. Cook for 12-15 minutes. No flipping is required with this method.

Step 5: Resting and Serving

1. Once the internal temperature reaches 145°F, remove the trout from the heat.
2. Let the fish rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist.
3. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and remaining fresh dill before serving.

Tips for Perfect Smoked Trout

Achieving the perfect hot smoked trout requires a bit of finesse with your heat management. The most critical tip is to avoid overcooking; trout is a lean fish and can dry out quickly if left on the heat too long. Watch for the moment the flesh turns opaque and separates into flakes—that is your cue to pull it off. If you are cooking skin-on fillets directly on the steel cooktop, do not try to move the fish until the skin has crisped; it will naturally release from the metal when it is ready, preventing the fish from tearing.

• Wood Selection: For an authentic Scottish flavor, try using Oak or Alder wood chips in your fire. These woods provide a mild, sweet smoke that doesn't overpower the delicate fish.
• Crispy Skin: If you love crispy skin, ensure the plancha is hot and well-oiled before placing the fish down. Do not crowd the grill, as this lowers the temperature.
• Moisture Control: If you are using a cedar plank, keep a spray bottle of water handy to douse the edges of the plank if it catches fire.

Variations

While the classic lemon and dill combination is timeless, trout is a versatile canvas that accepts various flavor profiles beautifully. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your palate or whatever ingredients you have on hand in your pantry. Here are a few ways to twist the Scottish classic:

• Highland Whiskey Glaze: Mix a shot of Scotch whiskey with honey and brush it over the trout during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
• Horseradish Cream: Serve the trout cold or warm with a side of crème fraîche mixed with grated horseradish and chives.
• Cajun Kick: Swap the dill for a Cajun spice rub and lime juice for a spicier, bolder flavor profile.
• Maple Mustard: Combine grainy mustard with pure maple syrup for a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the Arteflame.
• Almond Crusted: Sprinkle toasted almond slices over the fish just before serving for added texture.

Best Pairings

To turn this smoked trout into a complete meal, you need sides that balance the smokiness and richness of the fish. Think fresh, acidic, or creamy textures. A classic cucumber salad with vinegar and sugar provides a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm, flaky fish. For a heartier meal, serve the trout alongside roasted baby potatoes cooked right on the Arteflame cooktop, seasoned with rosemary and sea salt. As for beverages, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling pairs wonderfully with the citrus notes. If you want to stay true to the Scottish theme, a light, peaty single malt whisky is an adventurous but rewarding companion to the smoky flavors.

Conclusion

Mastering this Scottish Hot Smoked Trout recipe on your Arteflame grill is a rewarding experience that combines culinary technique with the joy of outdoor cooking. The result is a dish that looks impressive and tastes even better, boasting a depth of flavor that only wood fire can provide. Whether you stick to the traditional lemon and dill or experiment with a whiskey glaze, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, light your fire, and enjoy a taste of the Highlands right in your own backyard.