Maryland Bluefish Steaks with Mustard Sauce

Introduction

Bluefish steaks are a Maryland favorite, known for their rich flavor and firm texture. Grilling them on the Arteflame grill gives them a perfect sear while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Paired with a tangy mustard sauce, this recipe brings out the best in this flavorful fish.

Ingredients

• 4 bluefish steaks (about 1-inch thick)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins inside the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches cooking temperature.

Step 2: Make the Mustard Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and chopped parsley.
2. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Season and Sear the Bluefish

1. Brush the bluefish steaks with melted butter and season generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Place the steaks on the center grill grate of the Arteflame grill at 1,000°F.
3. Sear for about 1-2 minutes per side to lock in juices and create a beautiful crust.

Step 4: Cook the Steaks to Perfection

1. Move the seared steaks to the flat griddle cooktop to finish cooking.
2. Cook for another 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 130°F.
3. Remove from the grill when the internal temperature is 115°F as it will continue to cook.

Step 5: Serve

1. Spoon the mustard sauce over the grilled bluefish steaks.
2. Garnish with additional parsley and serve immediately.

Tips

• Always remove the fish from the grill when it's 15°F below the desired final temperature, as it continues cooking.
• Use high-quality wood to maintain even heat and enhance the smoky flavor.
• Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Variations

• Spicy Cajun Style: Add Cajun seasoning to the bluefish before grilling and mix a teaspoon of hot sauce into the mustard sauce.
• Lemon Herb: Marinate the fish in olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary before grilling.
• Asian-Inspired: Replace mustard sauce with a soy-ginger glaze and garnish with sesame seeds.
• Honey Garlic: Add extra honey and minced garlic to the sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
• Smoky BBQ: Brush with BBQ sauce instead of mustard sauce for a smoky, caramelized finish.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Chilled cucumber salad
• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
• Crusty bread with herb butter

Conclusion

Grilling bluefish steaks on the Arteflame grill brings out their natural rich flavor while keeping them juicy. The crispy sear from the high heat and the tangy mustard sauce make this dish a must-try. Whether enjoying a seafood feast or a casual backyard cookout, this recipe is sure to impress!