Campfire-Style Grilled Minnesota Trout

Introduction

Nothing beats the smoky, rustic flavor of campfire-style grilled trout. This recipe captures that delicious open-fire taste, perfectly seared and infused with garlic and herbs. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve a crispy, flavorful skin while keeping the inside moist and tender. Let’s fire up the grill and get started!

Ingredients

• 2 whole Minnesota trout, cleaned
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the trout

1. Pat the trout dry with paper towels.
2. Rub the inside and outside with melted butter.
3. Stuff each trout with minced garlic, lemon slices, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Season the outside with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Sear the trout on the grill grate

1. Place the trout on the center grill grate for 1-2 minutes per side for a perfect sear.
2. Carefully flip and sear the other side until crispy.

Step 4: Finish on the flat cooktop

1. Move the seared trout to the flat cooktop towards the outer edge to cook through gently.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 130F.
3. Remove the trout from the grill when the internal temperature is 115F, as it will continue to cook after removal.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

1. Let the trout rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with additional lemon slices if desired.

Tips

• Use a fish spatula to handle the trout for easy flipping.
• For extra smokiness, add a piece of hardwood like oak or hickory to the firewood.
• Keep an eye on the trout, as it cooks quickly over high heat.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun: Add a mix of cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
2. Garlic Butter Herb: Increase the butter to 3 tbsp and baste frequently while grilling.
3. Asian Inspired: Replace thyme and rosemary with fresh ginger and soy sauce.
4. Chili Lime: Use lime juice, chili powder, and a touch of honey for a zesty twist.
5. Smoky Maple: Brush with maple syrup and add a pinch of smoked sea salt.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus drizzled with butter
• Roasted sweet potatoes, slow-cooked on the flat cooktop
• Charred corn on the cob with a sprinkle of smoked paprika
• A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc
• Fresh garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette

Conclusion

Cooking trout over an open flame on the Arteflame grill brings out rich flavors and a crispy texture that makes this dish unforgettable. Try different variations to find your perfect flavor.