Smoky Dutch-Style Grilled Endive with Ham and Gouda

Introduction

There is a quiet magic that happens when you take the humble Belgian endive and introduce it to the intense, searing heat of an Arteflame grill. In the Netherlands, this vegetable, known as witlof, is a culinary staple often boiled or baked in a casserole. However, the traditional methods can sometimes leave the vegetable tasting overly bitter or watery. By bringing this Dutch classic to the grill, we completely transform the flavor profile. The high heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the leaves, replacing the sharp bitterness with a deep, nutty sweetness that is undeniably addictive. This recipe embraces the authentic "Dutch Style" preparation by incorporating savory ham, rich melted Gouda cheese, and a whisper of nutmeg.

Grilling endive on the flat cooktop of the Arteflame allows for a controlled sear that charcoal grates simply cannot replicate. The solid steel surface ensures the delicate leaves char beautifully without burning to a crisp or falling through the fire. Whether you are looking for a sophisticated side dish for your next barbecue or a hearty vegetable main course, this smoky, cheesy, and savory dish captures the essence of Dutch comfort food with a modern, wood-fired twist.

Ingredients

• 4 large heads of Belgian endive (firm and pale yellow)
• 8 slices of high-quality cooked ham or prosciutto
• 1 cup aged Gouda cheese, shredded (can substitute Gruyère for a nuttier taste)
• 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• Sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Start by building a medium-sized fire in the center of your Arteflame grill.
2. Allow the fire to burn down slightly until the center grate is extremely hot (over 600°F) and the outer flat cooktop reaches a steady medium-high grilling temperature (around 400°F).
3. Wipe the cooktop down with a little oil to ensure a non-stick surface before you begin cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Endives

1. Rinse the endives under cold water and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Any excess moisture will steam the vegetable rather than sear it.
2. Slice each head of endive in half lengthwise.
3. If the core looks particularly thick or woody, you can cut a small wedge out of the bottom, but leave enough intact so the leaves hold together during grilling.
4. Brush the cut sides generously with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and the freshly grated nutmeg.

Step 3: The Initial Sear

1. Place the endives cut-side down directly onto the flat steel cooktop. Position them closer to the center fire for a harder sear, or further out if you want a slower roast.
2. Grill undisturbed for about 3 to 5 minutes. You are looking for a deep golden-brown caramelization on the face of the endive. This step is crucial for balancing the bitterness.
3. Flip the endives over using tongs. Drizzle the lemon juice over the charred side to brighten the flavors.

Step 4: The Dutch Finish

1. Move the endives slightly away from the hottest part of the fire to the outer rim where the heat is gentler.
2. Drape a slice of ham or prosciutto over each endive half.
3. Top generously with the shredded Gouda cheese.
4. Cover the endives with a basting dome (or a metal bowl) for 2–3 minutes. This traps the heat, melting the cheese and warming the ham without overcooking the vegetable.
5. Once the cheese is bubbling and golden, remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for Success

Mastering grilled endive requires balancing the heat to manage the vegetable's inherent bitterness. The key lies in the caramelization; the darker the sear (without burning), the sweeter the endive will taste. If you find endive too bitter for your palate, you can core the bottom cone of the vegetable before cooking, as this is where the bitter compounds are most concentrated. However, keeping the root intact helps the vegetable hold its shape on the grill.

When using the Arteflame, utilize the different heat zones smartly. Start the sear near the center to lock in flavor, then move them to the outer edge when melting the cheese. This prevents the bottom of the endive from scorching while the cheese melts. Additionally, use freshly grated nutmeg rather than pre-ground powder; the aromatic oils in fresh nutmeg pair exceptionally well with the smokiness of the grill and the creaminess of the Gouda.

Variations

While the classic Dutch combination of ham and Gouda is a crowd-pleaser, the neutral, slightly bitter profile of endive makes it a fantastic canvas for various flavor profiles. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit dietary restrictions or explore different regional cuisines by swapping just a few ingredients.

• Vegetarian Delight: Omit the ham and sprinkle with toasted walnuts and a drizzle of honey after the cheese melts to add texture and sweetness.
• The French Twist: Swap the Gouda for crumbled Roquefort or Blue Cheese and wrap the endive in bacon instead of ham for a richer, saltier bite.
• Vegan Char: Skip the meat and dairy. Grill the endive with a balsamic glaze reduction and top with toasted almond slivers and nutritional yeast.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the olive oil before brushing the endives, and swap the Gouda for a Pepper Jack cheese.
• Citrus Herb: Omit the heavy cheese and ham entirely; grill with lemon zest, thyme, and garlic butter for a lighter side dish.

Best Pairings

Dutch-style grilled endive is a robust side dish that holds its own against hearty main courses. Because of its creamy, savory, and slightly bitter profile, it pairs best with meats that have a natural sweetness or richness. It is the traditional accompaniment to grilling staples, balancing out fatty cuts of meat with its vegetal crunch and complex flavor.

• Pork Chops: The salty ham and nutmeg on the endive complement the sweetness of grilled pork chops perfectly.
• Ribeye Steak: The richness of a marbled ribeye is cut by the slight bitterness of the chicory, cleansing the palate between bites.
• Roasted Potatoes: Serve alongside rosemary-roasted potatoes for a full Dutch-inspired comfort meal.
• White Wine: Pair with a crisp Pinot Gris or a Riesling to balance the creaminess of the Gouda.

Conclusion

Grilling endive Dutch-style on the Arteflame is a revelation for anyone who thinks they dislike this leafy vegetable. The combination of the smokey sear, the savory ham, and the creamy blanket of melted Gouda creates a dish that is sophisticated yet deeply comforting. It is a testament to how the right cooking method—specifically the high, even heat of a wood-fired plancha—can elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a cozy winter grilling recipe, this dish delivers on all fronts: texture, flavor, and visual appeal. Give this recipe a try next time you fire up your grill, and experience the delicious transformation of the humble chicory.