Iowa Smoked Maple Pork Loin on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

This Iowa-style Smoked Maple Pork Loin is rich in flavor and perfectly juicy, thanks to the reverse searing method on the Arteflame grill. We start by searing the pork loin at 1,000°F on the center grill grate to lock in the juices, then slowly bring it up to the perfect doneness on the flat cooktop. The maple glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving this dish a deep, smoky-sweet flavor that will impress at any cookout.

Ingredients

• 1 (3-4 lb) pork loin
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to build. The grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the pork loin

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted butter, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the pork loin.
4. Brush the pork loin generously with the maple glaze, reserving some for later.

Step 3: Sear the pork loin

1. Place the pork loin on the center grill grate at 1,000°F.
2. Sear each side for about 2 minutes until a caramelized crust forms.

Step 4: Continue cooking on the flat cooktop

1. Move the pork loin to the flat cooktop near the center for higher heat.
2. Cook, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
3. Brush with more maple glaze while cooking.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the pork loin from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes (it will continue cooking to 145°F).
2. Slice against the grain and serve warm.

Tips

• Always remove the pork loin from the grill when it’s 15°F below your target temperature, as it continues cooking while resting.
• For a richer glaze, baste multiple times during the cooking process.
• If you prefer a smokier flavor, use hickory or applewood logs in the Arteflame.

Variations

1. Honey-Bourbon Glazed: Replace maple syrup with honey and add a splash of bourbon to the glaze.
2. Spicy Chipotle: Add 1 tsp chipotle powder to the spice rub and mix some adobo sauce into the glaze.
3. Garlic Herb: Replace smoked paprika with Italian herbs and add minced garlic into the glaze.
4. Orange Glaze: Use orange marmalade instead of maple syrup for a citrusy, sweet-savory taste.
5. Classic BBQ: Brush the pork loin with your favorite BBQ sauce instead of the maple glaze.

Conclusion

The Arteflame grill is the ideal way to prepare this Iowa Smoked Maple Pork Loin. The intense sear and slow finishing on the flat cooktop ensure perfect juiciness and caramelization every time. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or a special dinner, this recipe will impress with its flavor and texture.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus spears cooked on the flat cooktop.
• Garlic Butter Sweet Potatoes: Caramelized sweet potatoes cooked in butter directly on the griddle.
• Apple Cider Slaw: A fresh, tangy coleslaw to balance the sweet smoky flavors of the pork loin.
• Maple-Bourbon Old Fashioned: A perfect cocktail to complement the flavors of the dish.