Arteflame Älplermagronen: A Smoky Twist on the Swiss Alpine Classic

Introduction

Älplermagronen is a traditional Swiss comfort food, often referred to as "Alpine Macaroni." It combines pasta, potatoes, cheese, onions, and cream into a rich and hearty dish. By preparing Älplermagronen on the Arteflame grill, you can add a smoky flavor that elevates this comforting dish to new heights. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special treat on a chilly evening.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni or any short pasta
• 2 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Emmental cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
• Optional: 4 slices of bacon, diced

For the Apple Compote (Optional, Traditional Swiss Side):

• 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Fire Up the Grill

Start by firing up your Arteflame grill, creating a medium heat zone on the flat cooktop. You'll use this area to cook the bacon (if using), caramelize the onions, and assemble the dish.

2. Cook the Pasta and Potatoes

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the diced potatoes for about 5 minutes. Add the pasta to the same pot and cook until both the pasta and potatoes are tender. Drain and set aside. (You can also cook the potatoes in the microwave).

3. Cook the Bacon (Optional)

If you're using bacon, cook the diced bacon on the flat cooktop until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat on the cooktop for the onions.

4. Caramelize the Onions

Add the butter to the flat cooktop, along with the sliced onions. Cook the onions slowly until they are soft and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. If you cooked bacon earlier, the onions can be cooked in the bacon fat for extra flavor.

5. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a cast-iron skillet or a grill-safe pan, combine the heavy cream and milk. Place the skillet on the outer edge of the Arteflame cooktop to warm the mixture gently. Gradually stir in the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta, potatoes, and caramelized onions to the cheese sauce. Stir everything together until well combined and the pasta and potatoes are evenly coated with the creamy, cheesy sauce. If using bacon, stir it in as well.

7. Finish the Dish

Move the skillet to the center of the flat cooktop to let the dish cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the cheese to bubble and slightly brown on top. If you prefer a crispy top, use the grill grate to add a bit more heat.

8. Make the Apple Compote (Optional)

While the Älplermagronen finishes cooking, prepare the apple compote. In a small pan on the flat cooktop, melt the butter and add the sliced apples. Cook until they begin to soften, then add the sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook until the apples are tender and the sauce is slightly syrupy.

9. Serve

Once the Älplermagronen is ready, remove it from the grill. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley, and serve immediately. If you made the apple compote, serve it on the side as a traditional accompaniment.

Tips

• Use good cheese: Gruyère and Emmental are classic choices for this dish, but you can mix in other Swiss cheeses for different flavors.
• Cook the onions slowly: Caramelizing the onions over low heat enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
• Try the apple compote: The sweet and tart apple compote is a traditional Swiss pairing that complements the rich, savory flavors of the Älplermagronen.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Älplermagronen

Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian twist.

2. Herb-Infused Älplermagronen

Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cheese sauce for an aromatic version.

3. Smoky Bacon and Ham Älplermagronen

Use a mix of bacon and diced smoked ham for extra savory depth.

4. Truffle Älplermagronen

Drizzle a bit of truffle oil over the finished dish for a luxurious touch.

5. Spicy Älplermagronen

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.

Best Pairings

• Side Dish: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or grilled vegetables
• Drink: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer
• Dessert: Apple strudel or a simple fruit tart to complement the savory dish

Conclusion

This Arteflame Älplermagronen recipe adds a smoky twist to a traditional Swiss dish, combining creamy pasta, potatoes, caramelized onions, and cheese for a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion. The optional apple compote provides a sweet contrast to the rich flavors, making this dish truly special.