Kansas Grilled Catfish with Lemon Herb Butter

Introduction

Enjoy a perfectly grilled Kansas-style catfish fillet cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The high-heat sear locks in juices, while the flat cooktop ensures even doneness. The lemon herb butter glaze adds a refreshing flavor that enhances the delicate taste of the fish.

Ingredients

• 4 fresh catfish fillets
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to burn until the cooktop reaches ideal grilling temperature—approximately 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the lemon herb butter glaze

1. Melt the butter in a small bowl.
2. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Set aside for basting.

Step 3: Sear the catfish on the center grill grate

1. Lightly season both sides of each catfish fillet with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the fillets on the center grill grate, searing for about 1 minute per side to lock in the juices.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop

1. Move the seared catfish fillets to a medium-heat zone on the flat cooktop.
2. Brush each fillet generously with the lemon herb butter glaze.
3. Allow the fillets to continue cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 130°F.

Step 5: Remove and serve

1. Remove the fish from the grill at 130°F (it will continue cooking to 145°F off the grill).
2. Brush with additional lemon herb butter before serving.
3. Plate and enjoy your perfectly grilled Kansas-style catfish.

Tips

• For an extra crispy crust, pat the fillets dry before seasoning.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Always remove the fish at 130°F, as it will continue cooking to 145°F.
• Sear quickly to lock in juices without overcooking the delicate fish.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun: Add cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning to the spice mix for a bolder flavor.
2. Garlic Parmesan: Replace lemon zest with grated Parmesan and increase the garlic for a richer taste.
3. Herb Citrus: Add fresh basil and orange zest for a refreshing twist.
4. Honey Mustard: Mix honey and Dijon mustard into the glaze for a sweet and tangy coating.
5. Smoky BBQ: Brush with a smoky barbecue sauce instead of the lemon herb butter.

Conclusion

Kansas Grilled Catfish with Lemon Herb Butter is a delicious and easy dish to prepare on the Arteflame grill. The combination of searing and slow grilling ensures a tender, juicy fillet bursting with flavor. Fire up your grill and enjoy this incredible seafood dish today!

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus with lemon
• Charred corn on the cob
• Garlic butter rice
• Smoky grilled potatoes
• Fresh garden salad with citrus dressing