Canadian Grilled Cheddar Bannock

Introduction

Bannock is a traditional Canadian bread that comes to life when grilled on the Arteflame. This version, infused with melted cheddar, delivers a crispy, golden crust with a warm and cheesy center. The flat cooktop griddle ensures an even sear while the direct radiant heat crisps up the outside without burning. With the Arteflame, you can cook the bannock and melt the cheese to perfection while preparing other dishes at the same time. Let’s fire up the grill and make a delicious Canadian classic.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• Extra butter for grilling

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the paper napkins and let the fire burn until you have a solid bed of embers (about 20 minutes).

Step 2: Prepare the bannock dough

1. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add water while stirring until a sticky dough forms.
3. Add melted butter and knead lightly until dough is smooth.

Step 3: Shape and Grill the Bannock

1. Divide the dough into four portions and flatten each one into a disc about ½ inch thick.
2. Butter the flat cooktop near the hotter center.
3. Place the dough discs on the cooktop and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 4: Melt the Cheddar

1. Once the bannock is flipped, sprinkle grated cheddar on each warm grilled side.
2. Cover loosely with a metal bowl or tent with foil for even melting.
3. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until cheese is fully melted.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove bannock from the grill and let it rest briefly.
2. Slice or pull apart and serve hot.

Tips

• Use sharp cheddar for a more intense cheesy flavor.
• Butter the cooktop lightly to prevent sticking and enhance browning.
• Adjust cooktop placement—move closer to the center for faster cooking, or towards the edge for a slower, even cook.

Variations

1. Garlic Herb Bannock: Mix in chopped fresh herbs and minced garlic for a savory twist.
2. Maple Bacon Bannock: Add crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of maple syrup for a smoky-sweet version.
3. Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Bannock: Fold in diced jalapeños with the cheese for a spicy kick.
4. Sweet Cinnamon Bannock: Replace cheese with a cinnamon-sugar mix for a dessert-style bannock.
5. Sun-Dried Tomato and Parmesan Bannock: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and grated Parmesan for a Mediterranean touch.

Best pairings

• Smoky grilled sausages
• Grilled vegetables with balsamic drizzle
• Honey-drizzled whipped butter
• Campfire-style baked beans

Conclusion

Grilling bannock on the Arteflame gives it a fantastic crisp texture and melts the cheddar perfectly. The solid cooktop prevents burning, while the even heat distribution ensures a flawless cook every time. Try different variations to make it your own and enjoy this Canadian classic with family and friends.