Finnish Flame-Grilled Arctic Char with Dill Butter

Introduction

Experience the rich flavors of Finnish-style flame-grilled Arctic char, cooked over an open fire on the Arteflame grill. The high-temperature sear locks in the juices, while the flat cooktop ensures perfect doneness. Enhanced with dill butter and sea salt, this dish is simple yet sophisticated—perfect for any grilling enthusiast.

Ingredients

• 2 Arctic char fillets
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 lemon, sliced
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (to light the grill)
• 3 paper napkins
• Firewood

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the paper napkins and allow the fire to establish for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the dill butter

1. Melt the unsalted butter on the flat cooktop griddle near the edge.
2. Stir in the chopped dill and sea salt.
3. Keep warm on the outer edge of the cooktop.

Step 3: Sear the Arctic char

1. Pat the fillets dry and season with sea salt and black pepper.
2. Place the fillets skin-side down on the center grill grate for 30 seconds to sear, locking in juices.
3. Carefully flip and sear the flesh side for another 30 seconds.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop

1. Move fillets to the flat cooktop griddle, adjusting placement to control temperature.
2. Cook for 4-5 minutes, skin-side down, basting with dill butter.
3. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the internal temp is 15°F below desired doneness.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
2. Drizzle with additional dill butter and serve with lemon slices.

Tips

• Use fresh Arctic char for the best flavor and texture.
• Keep the butter warm on the outer edge of the cooktop to prevent burning.
• Monitor heat zones to ensure even cooking.
• Always remove the fillets from the grill 15°F before the target internal temp.

Variations

• Garlic Butter Arctic Char: Add minced garlic to the butter for a bold, aromatic twist.
• Smoky Paprika Arctic Char: Season with smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor.
• Herb-Crusted Arctic Char: Coat with finely chopped parsley, thyme, and basil before grilling.
• Citrus Glazed Arctic Char: Sprinkle zest from an orange and a touch of honey before grilling.
• Spicy Arctic Char: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a bit of heat.

Conclusion

Flame-grilled Arctic char is a delicious Finnish dish that highlights the beauty of open-fire cooking. Using the Arteflame grill ensures a perfect balance of sear and doneness, locking in the flavors while making it easy to prepare in one spot. Try experimenting with different flavor variations and enjoy this captivating recipe.

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini
• Roasted potatoes with rosemary
• A light, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
• Finnish rye bread with herbed butter