Missouri Smoked Pork Steaks on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Missouri smoked pork steaks are a regional favorite, delivering juicy, flavorful pork with a perfect sear. Using the Arteflame grill, we lock in the juices by searing on the center grill grate at 1,000°F before transferring to the flat cooktop to finish to perfection. The result? A tender, mouthwatering pork steak basted in a tangy, vinegar-based barbecue sauce that melts in your mouth. Let's fire up the grill and get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 thick-cut pork shoulder steaks (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup tomato-based barbecue sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins inside the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the pork steaks

1. In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the pork steaks.
3. Let the seasoned pork rest while the grill reaches optimal temperature.

Step 3: Sear the pork steaks

1. Place the pork steaks on the center grill grate for 1 to 2 minutes per side to achieve a crispy, caramelized sear.

Step 4: Cook on the flat cooktop

1. Move the seared pork steaks to the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Position them closer to the center for a higher heat finish or further out for a slower cook.
3. Flip occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (carryover cooking will bring the temp to 160°F).

Step 5: Baste with barbecue sauce

1. Mix apple cider vinegar, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
2. Brush the mixture onto the pork steaks during the last few minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Rest and serve

1. Remove the steaks when the internal temp is 145°F.
2. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

• Always remove the pork steaks when they are 15°F below the target temp, as they will continue cooking.
• Use real firewood for the best smoky flavor.
• Adjust the cooking position on the flat cooktop based on the desired doneness.
• Add an extra layer of flavor by basting twice: once midway and once just before removing from the grill.

Variations

1. Spicy Maple Glaze: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup and add extra cayenne for a sweet-heat kick.
2. Garlic Herb Butter: Baste with melted garlic butter instead of barbecue sauce for a rich, buttery finish.
3. Honey Mustard: Swap barbecue sauce for a tangy honey mustard glaze.
4. Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce, ginger, and honey in the marinade for a savory-sweet fusion.
5. Smoky Chipotle: Add smoked chipotle powder and a touch of adobo sauce for a deep, smoky flavor.

Best pairings

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Cooked on the flat top with butter and spices.
• Smoky Baked Beans: Slow-cooked on the griddle for a rich, hearty side.
• Grilled Sweet Potatoes: Caramelized on the flat cooktop for a natural sweetness.
• Crisp Coleslaw: Refreshing, tangy contrast to the rich pork steaks.
• BBQ Garlic Bread: Toasted on the Arteflame for a crispy, buttery bite.

Conclusion

Missouri smoked pork steaks shine with bold flavors and a perfect sear. With the Arteflame grill, achieving a juicy, caramelized pork steak is effortless. Whether sticking to the traditional barbecue sauce or trying a variation, this recipe is sure to impress. Fire up the grill and enjoy a meal packed with smoky goodness!