Wisconsin Maple Glazed Salmon on Arteflame

Introduction

This Wisconsin Maple Glazed Salmon recipe brings together the rich sweetness of local maple syrup and the smoky flavor of open-fire grilling on the Arteflame Grill. By searing the salmon on the center grill grate at over 1,000°F, you lock in the juices and then finish it to perfection on the flat cooktop. It’s a steakhouse-quality dish in your own backyard — no oven, no pans, just pure flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 skin-on salmon fillets (6 oz each, fresh-caught if possible)
• 1/3 cup pure Wisconsin maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Prepare the Arteflame Grill by pouring a small amount of vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the paper napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches searing temperature (over 1,000°F).

Step 2: Prepare the Maple Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
2. Set aside a small amount for basting during grilling.

Step 3: Season and Prepare Salmon

1. Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
2. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Brush the top side generously with maple glaze.

Step 4: Sear the Salmon

1. Place a small pat of butter on the center grill grate.
2. Place the salmon fillets skin-side up (glazed side down) on the center grate to sear for 1-2 minutes to lock in juice and flavor.
3. Flip the fillets and sear the skin-side for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Finish Cooking on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the salmon fillets from the center grate to a medium-hot zone on the flat cooktop.
2. Brush again with the reserved glaze.
3. Let the salmon continue to cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 125°F (for medium), then remove immediately. The heat will carry over 10–15°F more.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Let the salmon rest for 5 minutes on a clean cutting board.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips

• Always preheat the Arteflame Grill to ensure the searing center reaches 1,000ºF.
• The hot zones near the grill's center cook faster; use the cooler edges to prevent overcooking.
• Use butter instead of oil for a richer flavor and better grill marks with no burning.
• Remove salmon when it’s 15°F under the target internal temperature.
• Don’t skip the glaze – the combination of sweet maple and tangy mustard is key.

Variations

1. Spicy Maple Salmon: Add 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the glaze for a spicy twist.
2. Herb-Infused Maple Salmon: Add 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an earthy, aromatic flavor layer.
3. Bourbon Maple Salmon: Add 1 tbsp bourbon to the glaze to bring warm, smoky undertones to the fish.
4. Ginger-Maple Glazed Salmon: Stir in 1 tsp freshly grated ginger to the glaze for a citrusy, warm zing.
5. Orange Maple Glazed Salmon: Substitute lemon juice with orange juice and zest for a bright, citrus-enhanced variation.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus or Brussels sprouts (cooked on the flat top)
• Charred corn on the cob with herb butter
• Rustic mashed sweet potatoes grilled in foil packs
• Chilled white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
• Fresh strawberry and arugula salad with balsamic glaze

Conclusion

Cooking Wisconsin Maple Glazed Salmon on the Arteflame Grill turns a simple meal into a wood-fired masterpiece. With the unique searing power of the center grate and the even heat of the steel flat cooktop, this dish is balanced, juicy, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s your first time grilling salmon or you're elevating your backyard cooking game, this recipe is sure to impress.