Alaskan BBQ Caribou Burgers on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Nothing beats the rich, lean flavor of Alaskan caribou burgers seared to perfection on an Arteflame grill. By first searing the patties on the scorching 1,000°F center grill grate, we lock in all the natural juices, then move them to the cooktop for even doneness without burning. Topped with smoky BBQ sauce, these burgers bring the ultimate outdoor grilling experience with a burst of bold, smoky flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground caribou meat
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 burger buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• Lettuce, tomato, and red onion for toppings

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oiled napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the wood to catch fire.
4. Let the fire burn down for about 20 minutes until the cooktop reaches optimal grilling temperature.

Step 2: Make the Caribou Patties

1. In a large bowl, combine ground caribou meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Form into four equal patties, pressing slightly thinner in the center to prevent bulging during cooking.

Step 3: Sear the Caribou Burgers

1. Place the patties onto the center grill grate (1,000°F) and sear for 1 minute per side.
2. Once nicely seared, move the patties to the flat cooktop to continue cooking to desired doneness (about 4-5 minutes per side for medium).
3. Top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese in the last minute of cooking.

Step 4: Toast the Buns and Assemble

1. Butter the burger buns and place them on the flat cooktop until golden brown.
2. Remove the buns and place a patty on each bottom bun.
3. Top with BBQ sauce, lettuce, tomato, and onion.
4. Cover with the top half of the bun.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Allow the burgers to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your Alaskan BBQ Caribou Burgers straight off the Arteflame grill.

Tips

• Remove the burgers from the grill when they reach 15°F below your desired internal temperature as they will continue cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect doneness.
• Grilling on the outer edges of the cooktop helps control the cooking temperature after searing.
• Use real wood for fuel to enhance the smoky flavor.
• Butter instead of oil enhances the flavor of the grilled buns.

Variations

• Spicy Jalapeño Burger: Add diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a fiery twist.
• Mushroom Swiss Burger: Top with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
• Whiskey BBQ Burger: Mix a splash of whiskey into the BBQ sauce for a smoky, bold flavor.
• Maple Bacon Burger: Top with crispy bacon and a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Blue Cheese & Caramelized Onion: Add crumbled blue cheese and caramelized onions for a gourmet touch.

Conclusion

Grilling Alaskan BBQ Caribou Burgers on the Arteflame grill takes your cookout to the next level. With a steakhouse-quality sear and perfectly controlled heat zones, these burgers come out incredibly juicy, flavorful, and unforgettable. Enjoy the beauty of outdoor cooking with every bite!

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Sweet potato fries grilled on the cooktop
• A crisp coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
• A cold Alaskan craft beer or a smoky bourbon