Grilled Finnish Wild Mushroom & Onion Skewers on the Arteflame

Introduction

There is something primal and deeply satisfying about cooking wild food over an open fire, a tradition deeply rooted in Finnish culture. Inspired by the lush forests of Scandinavia, these Wild Mushroom and Onion Skewers bring the earthy, robust flavors of the Nordic woods straight to your backyard. Unlike standard grilling grates that might let delicate fungi slip through, the Arteflame grill’s solid steel cooktop is the perfect surface to achieve a golden-brown sear while locking in the mushrooms' natural juices. Whether you have foraged for golden chanterelles yourself or sourced fresh porcinis from the market, this recipe celebrates the integrity of high-quality ingredients. The combination of savory, umami-rich mushrooms and the caramel sweetness of red onions creates a rustic side dish that is elegant in its simplicity. It is a vegetarian-friendly option that commands attention, proving that vegetables can be just as satisfying as the main course when cooked with fire and finesse.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Fresh Wild Mushrooms (Chanterelles, Porcini, or Cremini)
• 2 Large Red Onions (or 1 bag of Pearl Onions, peeled)
• 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter, melted
• 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Sea Salt (flake salt preferred for finishing)
• 1/2 tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme leaves
• 1 tbsp Fresh Dill, chopped (for garnish)
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes) or metal skewers

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mushrooms and Onions

1. Begin by gently cleaning the mushrooms. Avoid washing them under running water, as they act like sponges and will become soggy. Instead, use a damp cloth or a soft mushroom brush to wipe away any dirt or pine needles.
2. If the mushrooms are large, cut them into halves or thick chunks that are roughly the same size as your onion pieces to ensure even cooking. Leave smaller chanterelles whole for a rustic look.
3. Peel the red onions and cut them into large, 1-inch chunks. If using pearl onions, simply peel them and leave them whole.

Step 2: Season the Vegetables

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, fresh thyme, sea salt, and cracked black pepper.
2. Add the prepared mushrooms and onions to the bowl.
3. Toss the vegetables gently until they are evenly coated with the herb and butter mixture. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors while you heat the grill.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. Take your soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers and begin threading the ingredients.
2. Alternate between a piece of mushroom and a piece of onion. Pack them snugly but not too tightly; a little airflow helps the edges crisp up.
3. Repeat until all ingredients are used. You should have enough for approximately 4 to 6 skewers depending on the size of your produce.

Step 4: Fire Up the Arteflame

1. Build a medium fire in the center of your Arteflame grill. Allow the cooktop to heat up. You want a medium-high heat zone for this recipe.
2. Lightly oil the flat steel cooktop with a little extra vegetable oil to ensure a non-stick surface, though the butter in the marinade will also help.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

1. Place the skewers directly onto the flat steel cooktop. Do not place them over the open center flame, as the delicate mushrooms may burn before they cook through.
2. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. You are looking for a deep golden-brown sear on the mushrooms and a nice char on the edges of the onions.
3. Rotate the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides. The flat top creates an incredible Maillard reaction that intensifies the savory flavor.
4. Once the onions are tender and the mushrooms are crispy on the edges, remove them from the heat.
5. Sprinkle immediately with fresh dill and a pinch of flake salt before serving.

Tips

To master these Finnish skewers, moisture control is key. As mentioned, never soak your mushrooms in water; a dry clean ensures they sear rather than steam. When using the Arteflame, take advantage of the different heat zones. Start the skewers closer to the center to get a rapid sear, then move them toward the outer edge of the cooktop to finish cooking gently without burning. If you are using wooden skewers, soaking them is non-negotiable to prevent them from catching fire, even on the flat top. For an extra layer of flavor, baste the skewers with a little extra melted butter halfway through the grilling process. This adds a nutty richness that complements the wild fungi perfectly. Finally, choose mushrooms that are firm and fresh; older mushrooms can become slimy when exposed to high heat.

Variations

While the traditional Finnish recipe leans on the purity of salt, pepper, and dill, there are several ways to twist this recipe to suit your palate. Here are a few delicious variations to try on your grill:

• Garlic & Herb: Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and chopped rosemary to the butter mixture for a more aromatic, Italian-inspired profile.
• Balsamic Glaze: Brush the skewers with a balsamic reduction during the last minute of grilling for a sweet and tangy finish that pairs well with the charred onions.
• Bacon-Wrapped: For a non-vegetarian option, wrap the mushroom chunks in half-strips of thin bacon before skewering. The bacon fat will render into the mushrooms as they cook.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the marinade for a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the butter.
• Forest Berry Twist: In true Nordic fashion, serve the finished skewers with a side of unsweetened lingonberry jam for a tart contrast to the savory earthiness.

Best pairings

These Wild Mushroom and Onion Skewers are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with robust main courses. In keeping with the Nordic theme, they are the perfect accompaniment to grilled venison, elk, or a heavy cut of beef like a ribeye steak. The earthiness of the mushrooms stands up well to gamey meats and rich red wines. Alternatively, serve them alongside a cedar-plank grilled salmon for a lighter, pescatarian meal that highlights fresh, natural ingredients. For a starch pairing, rustic roasted potatoes cooked directly on the Arteflame cooktop or a creamy root vegetable mash work wonders. If you are hosting a casual backyard gathering, these skewers also work well as a standalone appetizer, served with a dipping sauce of sour cream mixed with horseradish and chives.

Conclusion

Grilling Finnish Wild Mushroom and Onion Skewers on the Arteflame is more than just preparing a side dish; it is an embrace of rustic, outdoor cooking traditions. The flat steel cooktop transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet experience, highlighting the contrast between the tender, savory mushrooms and the sweet, crisp onions. The smokiness imparted by the wood fire adds a layer of complexity that you simply cannot replicate in a kitchen oven. This recipe is a testament to the philosophy that the best food often requires the fewest ingredients, allowing nature’s flavors to shine through. Whether you are a seasoned pitmaster or a weekend grilling enthusiast, these skewers are sure to become a favorite addition to your culinary repertoire, bringing a taste of the wild to your table.