Smoked & Seared: British Grilled Halloumi with Winter Spiced Chutney

There is something undeniably magical about grilling in the winter. The crisp air contrasts beautifully with the radiating warmth of the fire, and the food takes on a comforting, hearty quality that summer barbecues simply cannot replicate. This British-inspired dish brings that cozy atmosphere to life, featuring the famous “squeaky cheese,” Halloumi, which has become a staple in modern British cuisine. Unlike other cheeses that melt into a puddle, Halloumi holds its shape, developing a stunning golden-brown crust when seared on the hot steel of the Arteflame grill.

The richness of the salty cheese is perfectly balanced by a homemade winter spiced chutney. Bursting with seasonal flavors like cranberries, apples, cinnamon, and star anise, the chutney is cooked right on the flat-top alongside the cheese. The wood fire adds a subtle smoky dimension to the fruit that you just can't achieve on a stovetop. Whether you are hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this appetizer offers a sophisticated blend of savory, sweet, and tart flavors that embody the spirit of the season.

Ingredients

For the Winter Spiced Chutney

• 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 star anise
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 pinch of salt

For the Halloumi

• 2 blocks (approx. 8-9 oz each) Halloumi cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
• Cracked black pepper
• Toasted baguette slices (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Start a fire in the center of your Arteflame grill using three paper napkins soaked in vegetable oil, stacked with kindling and dry hardwood logs.
2. Allow the fire to burn for about 20 minutes until the center grate is hot and the carbon steel cooktop has reached a consistent temperature.
3. Identify your heat zones: the area closer to the center is for high-heat searing, while the outer edge is perfect for slow simmering.

Step 2: Simmer the Chutney

1. Place a cast-iron skillet or a heat-safe saucepan directly on the flat cooktop, positioned in a medium-heat zone.
2. Add the diced apples, red onion, cranberries, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the ginger, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, orange zest, and salt.
4. Let the mixture simmer gently for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally, moving the skillet closer to the fire if it needs more heat or pulling it back if it bubbles too vigorously. The chutney is ready when the liquid has reduced to a sticky, jam-like consistency and the apples are tender. Remove from heat and set aside to stay warm.

Step 3: Prep and Grill the Halloumi

1. While the chutney finishes, slice the Halloumi blocks into thick slabs, approximately 1/2 inch (1 cm) thick. Do not slice them too thin, or they may overcook.
2. Pat the cheese slices dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. lightly brush both sides with olive oil.
3. Place the Halloumi slices directly onto the hot, oiled flat cooktop of the Arteflame. Aim for a medium-high heat zone.
4. Sear the cheese for 2–3 minutes on the first side. You are looking for a deep golden-brown crust.
5. Flip carefully using a metal spatula and grill for another 1–2 minutes on the other side until heated through and soft in the center.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Arrange the warm, seared Halloumi on a serving platter.
2. Remove the whole spices (cinnamon, star anise, cloves) from the chutney.
3. Spoon a generous amount of the warm winter spiced chutney over the cheese.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a dusting of cracked black pepper. Serve immediately while the cheese is still soft.

Tips

Cooking Halloumi requires a bit of timing finesse. This cheese is best served immediately after grilling. If it sits for too long, it can become rubbery and lose that delightful creamy interior texture. Ensure your guests are ready to eat the moment the cheese hits the plate. When using the Arteflame, leverage the gradient heat zones; if your cheese is browning too fast but the center is still cold, slide the slices toward the cooler outer edge of the cooktop to finish heating through without burning the crust.

Regarding the chutney, don't be afraid to make a larger batch. The acidity of the vinegar and sugar acts as a preservative, meaning this chutney keeps exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It actually tastes better after a day or two as the spices meld. If you are cooking directly on the flat top without a skillet, ensure your grill is well-seasoned, but for liquid-heavy chutneys, a small cast-iron pan placed on the cooktop is the cleanest and most efficient method.

Variations

While the winter spiced version is a classic festive treat, Halloumi is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit any season or palate. The salty, neutral profile of the cheese acts as a perfect canvas for bold flavors. Here are a few variations to try on your Arteflame to keep things exciting year-round:

• The Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh chili or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the chutney for a sweet and spicy contrast.
• Summer Twist: Replace the winter chutney with a fresh peach or mango salsa with lime juice and cilantro.
• Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap each slice of Halloumi in a thin strip of bacon before grilling for an extra savory, smoky bite.
• Honey & Herb: Skip the chutney and drizzle the hot cheese with warm honey infused with fresh thyme and lemon zest.
• Mediterranean Style: Top with tapenade, roasted cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic glaze reduction.

Best pairings

This dish is robust and salty, so it needs beverages and sides that can stand up to its intensity. If you are serving this as an appetizer, it pairs beautifully with a dry, crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio, which cuts through the richness of the cheese. For a more festive winter pairing, try a warm mulled wine or a spiced hard cider, mirroring the flavors in the chutney.

In terms of food pairings, this Halloumi dish works wonders alongside other small plates or "tapas" style grilled foods. Consider serving it with:

• Grilled sourdough or flatbread brushed with garlic oil.
• Lamb skewers or koftas (the gaminess of lamb loves the sweet chutney).
• Roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips.
• A fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cleanse the palate.

Conclusion

Grilled Halloumi with Winter Spiced Chutney is more than just an appetizer; it is a celebration of texture and flavor that highlights the versatility of the Arteflame grill. The combination of the salty, seared cheese and the sweet, tangy, aromatic chutney creates a bite that is comforting yet complex. It is a dish that brings people together around the fire, offering warmth and satisfaction on a chilly day.

Whether you are a seasoned grill master or new to the art of wood-fired cooking, this recipe is straightforward yet impressive. The visual appeal of the golden cheese topped with the ruby-red fruit preserve is undeniable. So, gather your ingredients, light up the fire, and enjoy a taste of British culinary charm right in your own backyard.