Michigan Grilled Lake Perch Sandwich

Introduction

Enjoy the iconic taste of Michigan with this Ludington-Style Grilled Lake Perch Sandwich. Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, this recipe brings a classic lakeside favorite straight to your backyard grill. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve the perfect sear on the perch while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Follow along to make a sandwich that tastes just like summer on the Great Lakes!

Ingredients

• 4 fresh lake perch fillets
• 4 sandwich buns, toasted
• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup tartar sauce
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper with a match.
3. Allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches optimal cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the perch fillets

1. In a shallow dish, mix the flour, cornmeal, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk.
3. Dip each lake perch fillet into the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the seasoned flour mixture to coat evenly.

Step 3: Grill the perch

1. Brush melted butter onto the flat cooktop section of the Arteflame grill.
2. Place the perch fillets onto the hot griddle, letting them crisp up for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Move the perch to a slightly cooler part of the griddle to finish cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 4: Toast the buns & assemble

1. Spread butter on the cut sides of the buns and place them on the griddle for about 1 minute until golden.
2. Spread tartar sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
3. Layer with grilled perch fillets and shredded lettuce.
4. Top with the other half of the bun and serve with a lemon wedge on the side.

Tips

• Remove the perch from the grill when the internal temperature is 15°F below the target to prevent overcooking.
• Use fresh lake perch for the best flavor and texture.
• Serve immediately while the fish is hot and crispy.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Perch: Add 1 tsp of Cajun seasoning to the flour mixture and serve with a spicy remoulade sauce.
2. Garlic Herb Perch: Mix 1 tsp of Italian herbs and minced garlic into the butter before grilling.
3. Cheesy Perch Melt: Add a slice of sharp cheddar cheese on top of each fillet after grilling and let it melt before assembling the sandwich.
4. Asian-Style Perch: Use panko crumbs instead of cornmeal and top with a sesame-ginger slaw.
5. Lemon Pepper Perch: Mix 1 tsp lemon zest and cracked black pepper into the flour mixture.

Best Pairings

• Sweet potato fries
• A light coleslaw
• Homemade dill pickles
• A crisp Michigan lager or cider
• Fresh lemonade

Conclusion

The Michigan Grilled Lake Perch Sandwich is an irresistible way to enjoy fresh seafood with a crispy, golden crust and flavorful toppings. Grilling everything on the Arteflame ensures a perfect finish with minimal cleanup. Try out the different variations to keep this dish exciting and fresh!