Albanian Grilled Pork Neck - Juicy & Flavorful BBQ

Introduction

Albanian Grilled Pork Neck is a mouthwatering traditional dish featuring tender pork neck marinated in aromatic Albanian spices and grilled to perfection. Using the Arteflame grill, this recipe showcases an incredible steakhouse-quality sear at 1,000°F to lock in juices, followed by reverse-searing on the flat cooktop for the most tender and flavorful result. Let’s fire up the grill and create this delicious masterpiece!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs pork neck, sliced into thick steaks
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp sea salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F and the flat cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Marinate the pork neck

1. In a large bowl, mix salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cumin, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, and 1 tbsp vegetable oil.
2. Rub the marinade evenly over the pork neck steaks.
3. Let the pork neck marinate while the grill heats up, or at least 15 minutes for better flavor.

Step 3: Sear the pork

1. Once the grill is ready, place the pork neck steaks directly on the center grate for an intense sear.
2. Allow each side to sear for 2-3 minutes until a deep golden crust forms.

Step 4: Reverse-sear on the flat cooktop

1. Move the seared pork steaks from the center grate to the flat top cooktop.
2. Add butter and continue cooking, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature is about 15°F below your desired doneness.
3. Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Always let the meat rest after grilling to allow juices to redistribute.
• Use the different heat zones on the Arteflame grill for precision cooking.
• Add a sprinkle of coarse sea salt right before serving for an extra flavor boost.

Variations

1. Spicy Albanian Pork Neck: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper and 1 tbsp hot paprika for a spicier kick.
2. Garlic Herb Infused: Mix in 1 tbsp fresh chopped rosemary and thyme with the marinade.
3. Citrus Zest: Add orange zest and a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
4. Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika and add a handful of soaked wood chips to the fire.
5. Honey Glazed: Brush the pork with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard during the last few minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Albanian Grilled Pork Neck is an explosion of flavor with its rich, savory spices and perfectly grilled texture. Using the Arteflame grill ensures the juiciest, most delicious pork neck every time. Fire up your grill and savor this incredible dish with family and friends!

Best Pairings

• Grilled vegetables (zucchini, peppers, and onions cooked on the flat cooktop)
• Rustic flatbread warmed on the Arteflame griddle
• Simple tomato and cucumber salad with a dash of olive oil
• Albanian-style roasted potatoes with paprika and butter
• A glass of full-bodied red wine or cold Albanian beer