Portuguese Charcoal-Grilled Sea Bream

Portuguese Charcoal-Grilled Sea Bream

Make crispy and flavorful Portuguese charcoal-grilled sea bream using the Arteflame grill. Perfectly juicy inside with a delicious, smoky char.

Introduction

Experience authentic Portuguese flavors with this charcoal-grilled sea bream. Seasoned simply with sea salt and butter, the fish is grilled whole on the Arteflame for a perfectly crispy skin and juicy, delicate flesh. The result? A restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole sea bream (cleaned and gutted)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 tbsp sea salt
  • 1 lemon (sliced)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Get the Arteflame grill ready for grilling

  1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
  2. Place the soaked napkins inside the grill.
  3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
  4. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach optimal cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the fish

  1. Pat the sea bream dry with paper towels.
  2. Score the skin with a sharp knife.
  3. Rub melted butter over the entire fish.
  4. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Sear the fish on the center grill grate

  1. Place the fish on the center grill grate at 1,000°F.
  2. Grill each side for about 2 minutes to get a beautiful crust.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop

  1. Move the fish to the flat cooktop to cook evenly.
  2. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
  3. Check the internal temperature, removing it at 130°F (it will carryover cook to 145°F).

Step 5: Serve

  1. Transfer the fish to a serving platter.
  2. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley.
  3. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes.

Tips

  • Scoring the skin helps get a crispier texture and better seasoning penetration.
  • Use a fish spatula to handle the fish carefully and prevent tearing.
  • Always remove the fish at 130°F since carryover cooking will bring it to 145°F.
  • For a smokier flavor, add some wood chips to the fire.

Variations

  • Garlic Butter Sea Bream: Add minced garlic and fresh thyme to the melted butter before brushing on the fish.
  • Spicy Portuguese Sea Bream: Sprinkle paprika and chili flakes for an extra kick.
  • Citrus Infused Sea Bream: Mix melted butter with orange and lemon zest for a bright flavor.
  • Herb Crusted Sea Bream: Coat the fish in a mix of crushed rosemary, oregano, and parsley.
  • Mediterranean Grilled Sea Bream: Stuff the cavity with sliced tomatoes, olives, and basil.

Conclusion

The Arteflame grill makes grilling whole Portuguese-style sea bream easy, locking in flavor and juiciness. Perfectly crispy skin, buttery texture, and smokey goodness—give this recipe a try for a true restaurant-quality experience!

Best pairings

  • Grilled Mediterranean vegetables
  • Simple lemon rice
  • Portuguese-style roasted potatoes
  • Crisp white wine like Vinho Verde
  • Fresh arugula salad

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