Smoked Maine Cod Fillets with Butter Herb Sauce

Introduction

Fresh Maine cod fillets are smoked to perfection on the Arteflame grill, bringing out rich, natural flavors and a tender texture. A luscious butter herb sauce enhances the smokiness, making this dish irresistibly delicious. Using the Arteflame grill ensures an even cook, preserving the cod’s delicate juiciness. This is an effortless yet gourmet seafood experience you'll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

• 4 fresh Maine cod fillets
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Wood chips for smoking

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the napkins to start the fire.
3. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to be ready for cooking.

Step 2: Season the Cod Fillets

1. Pat the cod fillets dry and brush each fillet with melted butter.
2. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper for a flavorful crust.
3. Set aside to allow the flavors to penetrate the fillet.

Step 3: Smoke the Cod Fillets

1. Place soaked wood chips onto the fire to create a steady stream of smoke.
2. Position the cod fillets on the outer edges of the Arteflame griddle to smoke gently.
3. Smoke for 15-20 minutes, turning once, until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 130°F.

Step 4: Prepare the Butter Herb Sauce

1. Mix melted butter with minced garlic, parsley, and dill.
2. Drizzle the sauce over the smoked fillets right before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with freshly sliced lemon for a bright, zesty finish.
2. Remove the fillets from the grill when they reach 130°F, as they will continue cooking after removal.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the smoky, buttery goodness.

Tips

• Keep the fish on the outer edge of the cooktop to ensure slow and even smoking.
• Use high-quality hardwood for optimal smoky flavor.
• Let the fillets rest for a few minutes after removing them from the grill.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun: Add Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy twist.
2. Lemon Pepper: Replace smoked paprika with lemon zest and cracked black pepper.
3. Garlic Butter: Use roasted garlic butter for a richer flavor.
4. Herb Crusted: Coat the fillets in a mix of fresh basil, oregano, and thyme.
5. Asian-Inspired: Add a soy sauce glaze with ginger and sesame seeds.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with garlic butter
• Roasted new potatoes
• Sweet corn on the cob
• Crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc

Conclusion

Smoked Maine cod fillets, cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill, offer a delightful combination of smokiness and freshness. Paired with buttery herbs, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that is simple to prepare and packed with flavor.