Maryland Rockfish Steaks with Herb Butter on Arteflame

Introduction

Savor the flavors of Maryland with this perfectly grilled rockfish steak recipe. Using the Arteflame grill, we sear the fish to lock in juices before finishing it on the flat griddle with a luscious herb butter. This method ensures every bite is rich, flavorful, and irresistibly tender.

Ingredients

• 4 thick-cut rockfish steaks (about 1-inch thick)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil for lighting the grill

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the herb butter

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with chopped parsley, thyme, oregano, garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Set aside at room temperature.

Step 3: Sear the rockfish steaks

1. Pat the rockfish steaks dry with a paper towel.
2. Lightly season each side with salt and black pepper.
3. Place the steaks on the center grill grate for about 30 to 45 seconds per side to achieve a steakhouse-quality sear.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat griddle

1. Move the seared steaks from the center grill grate to the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Cook for another 3-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness.
3. Remove from the grill when the internal temperature is about 15°F below your target temperature, allowing for carryover cooking.

Step 5: Add the herb butter

1. Place a generous dollop of herb butter on each steak while still hot.
2. Let the butter melt, infusing the fish with delicious flavor.

Tips

• Always pat your fish dry before grilling to get the best sear.
• Monitor the heat zones on the Arteflame—move food towards the outer griddle for gentler cooking.
• Use high-quality butter for better flavor.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Rockfish: Replace the herb butter with a Cajun-style butter using paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder.
2. Garlic Parmesan Rockfish: Add grated Parmesan and extra garlic to the butter for a rich, umami twist.
3. Asian-Inspired Rockfish: Use ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil in the butter for an umami-packed flavor.
4. Smoky Maple Rockfish: Mix a bit of smoked paprika and maple syrup into the butter for a slightly sweet and smoky profile.
5. Lemon Dill Rockfish: Replace the herbs with fresh dill and add extra lemon juice for a zesty taste.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini cooked on the flat cooktop.
• Buttery mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.
• A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
• Fresh-baked artisan bread to soak up the herb butter.

Conclusion

Using the Arteflame grill to create this Maryland-style rockfish results in a dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also visually stunning. The high-quality sear locks in juices, while the herb butter enhances the natural flavors. Try different variations to make it your own!