Minnesota Smoked Whitefish Tacos on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

These Minnesota smoked whitefish tacos are fresh, flavorful, and grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. The high heat sear locks in the juices, while the solid steel cooktop ensures a perfectly even grill without burning. This easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality fish tacos right from your backyard.

Ingredients

• 2 fresh Minnesota whitefish fillets
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 6 corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco
• 1/2 cup crema or sour cream
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot.

Step 2: Season the Whitefish

1. Pat the whitefish fillets dry with a paper towel.
2. Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
3. Rub melted butter over the fish and season with the spice mixture.

Step 3: Grill the Whitefish

1. Place the whitefish fillets on the center grill grate for 1-2 minutes to sear.
2. Move the fillets to the flat cooktop griddle to finish cooking until they reach an internal temperature of 130°F.
3. Remove the fish when the internal temperature reaches 115°F, as it will continue cooking after being removed.
4. Flake the fish into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

1. Place the corn tortillas on the flat cooktop griddle for 30 seconds on each side until warm and slightly charred.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

1. Divide the flaked whitefish evenly among the tortillas.
2. Top with shredded cabbage, cilantro, queso fresco, and avocado slices.
3. Mix crema with lime juice and drizzle over the tacos.
4. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips

• For a bolder smoky flavor, use hardwood like oak or hickory.
• Butter enhances the richness of the fish—don’t skip it!
• Grill the tortillas just enough to keep them pliable.
• Let the fish rest for 5 minutes before flaking to retain juices.

Variations

1. Spicy Chipotle: Add 1/2 tsp chipotle powder for a smoky heat.
2. Citrus Garlic: Enhance the seasoning with 1 tsp lime zest and minced garlic.
3. Cajun Style: Substitute the seasoning with Cajun spice blend for a bold kick.
4. Mango Salsa: Top with diced mango, red onion, and jalapeño for a tropical twist.
5. Avocado Crema: Blend avocado with the crema for an extra creamy topping.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn with lime butter
• Charred pineapple salsa
• Fresh guacamole with tortilla chips
• A refreshing margarita or a crisp lager

Conclusion

These smoked whitefish tacos are easy to make, full of flavor, and made for grilling on the Arteflame. The perfect sear and even cook make this dish restaurant-worthy right from your backyard.