Flinders Ember Grill

Introduction

The Flinders Ember Grill is a culinary delight inspired by the rugged beauty and rich heritage of the Flinders Ranges in South Australia. Known for its pastoral landscapes and vibrant flora and fauna, the region's robust flavors come to life in this dish. Traditionally, the locals would cook using a technique reminiscent of the campfire grilling methods of yore, capturing the essence of this awe-inspiring terrain. This recipe brings together smoky flavors with a modern twist, ideal for any barbecue enthusiast or culinary adventurer.

Ingredients

• Beef Rib - 1 rack (preferably grass-fed)
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Sea Salt - 1 tablespoon
• Black Pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 2 teaspoons
• Garlic Cloves - 4 (minced)
• Rosemary Sprig - 2 (chopped)
• Lemon Juice - from 1 lemon
• Red Wine - 1 cup (for basting)
• Charcoal - enough for a steady grill burn
• Vegetable Medley (zucchini, peppers, and carrots) - 500 grams
• Crusty Bread - for serving

Preparation

To begin your Flinders Ember Grill journey, start with sourcing the finest quality beef rib you can find. The emphasis is on the cut – it should be succulent and marbled to ensure maximum flavor. Clean the ribs under cold water and pat them dry.

Marinating the Beef Rib

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, paprika, the minced garlic cloves, chopped rosemary sprigs, and lemon juice. Whisk together until a consistent marinade forms. Submerge the beef rib into this mixture, ensuring that every surface is well-coated. Cover the bowl with cling wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. For optimal flavor, let it sit overnight.

Grilling Process

Now, on to the centerpiece of the recipe, the cooking. The Flinders Ember Grill requires an authentic campfire or a robust charcoal grill setup. Get ready for a cooking experience that enthralls the senses.

Setting Up Your Charcoal Grill

Create a two-zone fire in your grill. Pile charcoal on one side of the grill for the high-heat zone and leave the other side for low-heat indirect cooking. Light the charcoal and let it burn until it’s covered with a fine gray ash, indicating it's ready for grilling.

Cooking the Beef Ribs

Remove the beef rib from the marinade and set it aside. Reserve the leftover marinade for later. Place the ribs on the high-heat zone to sear each side for approximately 2-3 minutes, locking in the juices. Then, transfer the ribs to the low-heat zone. Close the grill lid and let the ribs cook slowly, which can take about 60-90 minutes. Remember to periodically turn the ribs and baste with red wine every 20 minutes for an added layer of flavor. Monitor the internal temperature using a meat thermometer—it should reach about 135°F for medium-rare.

Preparing the Vegetable Medley

While the beef rib cooks to perfection, prepare the vegetable medley. Toss 500 grams of your chosen vegetables (zucchini, peppers, carrots) with a drizzle of olive oil over them. Season with a pinch of sea salt and a dash of black pepper. Grill these over the cooler side of the grill until they are tender with grill marks, around 8-10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Once the ribs have attained grilling destiny, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender bite.

• Carve the beef rib into individual ribs and arrange them on a serving platter.
• Add the grilled vegetable medley around the ribs for a burst of color and nutrition.
• Serve with thick slices of crusty bread on the side, perfect for mopping up the juices and marinade remnants.

To fully embrace the spirit of the Flinders Ranges, pair this dish with a robust Shiraz wine that complements the smoky notes of the grilled ribs.

Enjoying the Flinders Ember Grill

The Flinders Ember Grill is more than just a meal—it's an experience reminiscent of the Australian outback. Each bite carries hints of the story of a land forged by time, a people resilient and resourceful. Whether enjoyed under the stars or at your dining room table, the rich flavors of the beef rib, infused with rosemary and garlic, will undoubtedly transport you to the heart of the Flinders Ranges.

As you savor each mouthful, consider the history and tradition embedded in this dish. Imagine the early settlers cooking over open flames, crafting meals that brought them closer together, just as the Flinders Ember Grill might do with your guests.

For additional tips on grilling times and techniques, refer to our cooking timer guide to ensure your grilling endeavors are always on point.