Alaska Grilled Smoked Char on Arteflame

Introduction

Experience the rich, buttery flavor of Alaska Arctic char with a perfect balance of light smoke and high-heat searing. Using the Arteflame grill, we lock in the juices with a steakhouse-quality sear at 1,000°F on the center grill grate, then gently finish the fish on the flat cooktop for an incredibly tender and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

• 2 Alaska Arctic char fillets
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 small handful of wood chips for light smoking
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oil-soaked napkins in the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins.
4. Light the paper and let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the grill is ready.

Step 2: Season and Smoke the Arctic Char

1. Rub the Arctic char fillets with melted butter.
2. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Add a small handful of wood chips near the fire to create a light smokey flavor.
4. Place the fillets on the outer edge of the cooktop, letting them absorb the smoke for about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Sear the Char on the Center Grill Grate

1. Move the fillets to the center grill grate.
2. Sear for 2 minutes per side, locking in the juices.

Step 4: Finish on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move fillets to the flat griddle cooktop, closer to the edge for gentler heat.
2. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until they reach 125°F internal temperature.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the fillets when they are 110°F, as they will continue cooking to 125°F.
2. Let them rest for 5 minutes.
3. Garnish with lemon wedges and serve.

Tips

• For even more flavor, baste the char with butter while finishing on the griddle.
• Use citrus wood chips for a lightly sweet smoky flavor.
• Monitor the internal temperature closely to prevent overcooking.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Char: Replace paprika with Cajun seasoning and add a pinch of cayenne.
2. Herbed Lemon Char: Use fresh rosemary and thyme along with lemon zest in the seasoning.
3. Garlic Butter Char: Mix minced garlic into the melted butter before basting.
4. Asian Glazed Char: Brush with a soy sauce, honey, and ginger glaze before searing.
5. Maple Smoked Char: Drizzle with maple syrup and use pecan wood chips for a rich flavor.

Conclusion

Grilling Alaska Arctic char on the Arteflame results in an unmatched combination of seared crispiness and juicy tenderness. The light smoking adds depth to its naturally rich flavor. Give this recipe a try and impress your guests.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with butter
• Charred lemon slices
• Roasted baby potatoes
• Light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc
• Fresh garden salad with citrus vinaigrette