Nevada Grilled Wild Boar Chops on Arteflame

Introduction

Grilling wild boar is an adventurous spin on classic BBQ. This Nevada-inspired recipe brings out rich, gamey flavors balanced with a bold spice blend. Thanks to the high-performance Arteflame grill, which reaches over 1,000°F on the center grate and smoothly transitions to multiple heat zones across the solid steel cooktop, you’ll get an unmatched sear and perfect finish. Best of all? Virtually no cleanup. Let’s dive in and make wild boar like a pro, all on the Arteflame.

Ingredients

• 4 wild boar loin chops (1.5” thick)
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter (for searing)
• Optional: fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Place three paper napkins inside the grill bowl and pour a bit of vegetable oil over each.
2. Stack firewood above the napkins in a loose teepee formation.
3. Light the napkins — the flames will ignite the firewood. In about 20 minutes, your Arteflame will be ready to cook, offering hot zones on the griddle and 1,000°F+ heat on the center grill grate.

Step 2: Prepare the Wild Boar Chops

1. In a bowl, mix together smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and pepper to form your dry spice rub.
2. Pat the boar chops dry with paper towels.
3. Massage the spice rub generously into each chop and let them sit while your grill heats up (about 15-20 minutes).

Step 3: Sear the Chops

1. Place a small pat of butter directly onto the hot center grill grate where you'll lay the wild boar chop.
2. Sear each chop on the center grate for about 2-3 minutes per side. This will lock in the juices and develop a rich crust.

Step 4: Finish on the Griddle

1. Move the chops from the center grate to the surrounding flat top griddle zone.
2. Cook the chops until they reach an internal temp of 130°F (for medium rare) or your preferred doneness. Cooking on the flatter outer zone prevents burning while gently finishing the meat.
3. Remember to remove the chops from the grill when they are about 15°F below your target temperature to account for carryover cooking.

Step 5: Rest & Serve

1. Let the chops rest for at least 5 minutes tented loosely with foil.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Tips

• Trim any silver skin before seasoning the chops for even cooking.
• For extra flavor, let seasoned chops marinate overnight in the fridge.
• Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking — wild boar is lean and can dry out.
• Use ghee or clarified butter if grilling at intense heat for longer durations.
• Don’t skip the rest — this lets juices redistribute and keeps your chops tender.

Variations

1. Maple Bourbon Glaze: Replace spice rub with a glaze made from maple syrup, bourbon, and mustard for a sweet and smoky finish.
2. Southwest Kick: Use chipotle powder, coriander, and a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick that pairs well with grilled corn.
3. Garlic Herb Marinade: Mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and smashed garlic for a more herbaceous profile.
4. Asian Fusion: Combine soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and honey for a savory umami version of these wild boar chops.
5. Spicy Cajun: Swap in a Cajun rub and top chops with pickled jalapeños for extra heat and flavor.

Best pairings

• Grilled corn with cayenne butter (grilled on outer griddle zone)
• Charred asparagus drizzled with lemon and parmesan
• Roasted fingerling potatoes with rosemary butter
• Chilled stone fruit salad with basil and mint
• Red wine — Zinfandel or Syrah
• Craft beer — Amber ale or smoked porter

Conclusion

With intense heat from the Arteflame’s center grill grate and smooth finishing zones on its flat griddle, grilling wild boar chops has never been easier or more flavorful. Whether you're in the Nevada heat or tailgating on game day, these chops make for a stunning showstopper that’s juicy, bold, and unforgettable. Don’t be afraid to explore the variations and pairings to dial in your perfect plate.