Scottish Venison Steaks with Whisky Butter
Introduction
Juicy venison steaks grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, seared at over 1,000°F for a steakhouse-quality crust, then finished on the flat top for perfect doneness. Topped with a rich whisky butter sauce, this dish is packed with bold Scottish flavors and an unbeatable smoky aroma.
Ingredients
- 2 venison steaks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp whisky
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)
- Firewood
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
- Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
- Light the napkins, allowing the fire to build.
- The grill will be ready for cooking in about 20 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Venison Steaks
- Generously season both sides of the venison steaks with salt and black pepper.
- Let the steaks rest at room temperature while the grill heats up.
Step 3: Sear the Steaks
- Place the venison steaks on the center grill grate.
- Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes at 1,000°F until a rich, caramelized crust forms.
- Move the steaks onto the flat cooktop to bring up to your desired doneness.
Step 4: Make the Whisky Butter
- Place butter on the flat griddle near the steak.
- Add minced garlic to the melting butter and stir for 30 seconds.
- Pour in the whisky and stir until combined.
- Remove from heat and mix in chopped parsley.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Remove the steaks from the grill when they are 15°F below your target temperature.
- Let them rest on a plate for 5 minutes to retain juices.
- Drizzle with whisky butter before serving.
Tips
- For medium-rare, remove the steak at 120°F (final temp will be 135°F after resting).
- Venison is lean, so avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.
- Use firewood with a mild smoke profile like oak or cherry for added flavor.
- Always pat dry the steaks before grilling for a better sear.
Variations
-
Honey Whisky Butter: Add a teaspoon of honey to the butter mixture for a hint of sweetness.
-
Spicy Whisky Butter: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.
-
Garlic Herb Butter: Add fresh thyme and rosemary to the melted butter for extra depth of flavor.
-
Mustard Whisky Butter: Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy bite.
-
Blue Cheese Butter: Crumble blue cheese into the butter mixture for a rich, creamy texture.
Conclusion
Enjoy the smoky, rich flavors of Scottish-style venison steaks, seared to perfection on the Arteflame grill and topped with decadent whisky butter. This meal is perfect for showcasing bold flavors in a simple yet impressive dish.
Best Pairings
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Grilled asparagus or charred Brussels sprouts
- Fresh arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- A glass of single malt Scotch whisky
- Roasted root vegetables