Béchamel Sauce with Parmesan

Introduction

This rich, cheesy Béchamel sauce with Parmesan gets a smoky twist when cooked on the Arteflame grill. The sauce is perfect for pasta dishes, lasagna, gratins, or as a creamy topping for vegetables and grilled meats. The grill's even heat gives the sauce a unique depth of flavor, making it a versatile addition to your backyard cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (warmed)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

Start by lighting the Arteflame grill using three vegetable oil-soaked paper napkins and firewood. Let the grill heat for about 20 minutes, ensuring the flat cooktop reaches a moderate heat.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Place a small grill-safe saucepan or cast iron skillet on the outer flat cooktop. Melt the butter in the pan. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the roux becomes smooth but does not brown.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Gradually pour the warmed milk into the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep whisking for 3-5 minutes as the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan

Remove the saucepan from direct heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.

Step 5: Serve

Use the Parmesan béchamel sauce immediately, either as a topping for grilled vegetables, pasta, or meats. If not using right away, you can store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Tips

• Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much on the grill, add a splash of milk to adjust the texture.
• Even Heat: Use the outer flat cooktop area to maintain a gentle, steady heat for the béchamel to prevent burning.
• Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, grill garlic or mushrooms on the flat top and mix them into the sauce for a smoky twist.

Variations

1. Garlic Parmesan Béchamel: Grill a few cloves of garlic on the Arteflame and mash them into the sauce for a smoky, garlic flavor.
2. Herb-Infused Parmesan Béchamel: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the butter as it melts to infuse the sauce with herbal notes.
3. Smoky Paprika Béchamel: Sprinkle in 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika for an added layer of smokiness.
4. Truffle Parmesan Béchamel: Drizzle a bit of truffle oil into the sauce for a luxurious flavor.
5. Grilled Veggie Béchamel: Serve the béchamel over grilled zucchini, eggplant, or roasted potatoes cooked directly on the Arteflame for a smoky side dish.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Vegetables: Pour the sauce over grilled asparagus, zucchini, or cauliflower.
• Pasta: Use it as a creamy base for mac and cheese or lasagna.
• Grilled Chicken or Steak: Drizzle over meats for a rich, cheesy sauce that complements smoky flavors from the grill.

Conclusion

This Parmesan béchamel sauce made on the Arteflame grill is a deliciously creamy and cheesy addition to any grilled meal. Whether paired with vegetables, pasta, or meats, the sauce takes on a subtle smokiness from the grill that enhances its flavor and versatility.