Vermont Maple BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Introduction

These Vermont Maple BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers combine smoky, sweet, and savory flavors for a next-level grilling experience. Using the unique high-heat searing capability of the Arteflame grill’s center grate, followed by gentle cooking over the griddle’s heat zones, you get shrimp that are well-charred yet tender and juicy inside. This recipe is easy, fun, and perfect for outdoor summer gatherings or weeknight meals with a flavorful twist.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
• 4 tablespoons pure Vermont maple syrup
• 3 tablespoons BBQ sauce (smoky or original)
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
• Fresh chopped parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the napkins in a teepee shape.
3. Light the napkins and allow the wood to catch fire.
4. Let the fire build for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F and the surrounding cooktop is fully heated.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

1. In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter, Vermont maple syrup, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp and toss to coat fully in the glaze.
3. Thread the shrimp onto skewers, piercing once through the tail and once through the head-end to secure each shrimp.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp Skewers

1. Place the shrimp skewers on the center grill grate for about 30-45 seconds per side to give them a steakhouse-style sear and caramelization.

Step 4: Finish on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the seared skewers to the inner ring of the flat cooktop griddle to finish cooking—about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are opaque and fully cooked.
2. Brush with additional maple BBQ glaze during cooking for added flavor and shine.
3. Remove from grill when internal temperature reaches 130°F; it will rise to 145°F while resting.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let the shrimp rest for 2-3 minutes off the heat.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and serve immediately.

Tips

• Always use the hottest part of the center grill grate to sear the shrimp quickly for that perfect char.
• Keep the shrimp from overcooking by moving them to the outer ring to rest if needed.
• Opt for raw shrimp (not precooked) to get the best flavor and texture.
• Use butter instead of oil for enhanced taste on the flat top griddle.
• Cooking directly on the Arteflame’s solid steel cooktop ensures food doesn’t burn—perfect for precise temperature control.

Variations

1. Spicy Vermont Maple Shrimp: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper and a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
2. Herb Garlic Maple Shrimp: Mix in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary and thyme for a garden-fresh flavor.
3. Lemon Maple Garlic Shrimp: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 tsp lemon zest to brighten the dish.
4. Maple Bourbon BBQ Shrimp: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze for a smoky-sweet taste.
5. Tropical Maple Glazed Shrimp: Mix in 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice and serve with grilled pineapple slices on the side.

Best pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with maple butter
• Chilled couscous salad with herbs and lemon
• Charred grilled asparagus or zucchini
• Fresh citrus lemonade or a maple old fashioned cocktail
• Fruit-topped sorbet for dessert

Conclusion

Vermont Maple BBQ Grilled Shrimp Skewers are the perfect way to show off your grilling skills. Marrying the sweetness of Vermont maple syrup with BBQ complexity, and using the superior heat zones of the Arteflame grill, this dish is sure to surprise and delight. There’s no better way to achieve deep flavor and caramelization without ever needing pots, pans or oven cooking.