French-Style Grilled Kale with Bacon

Introduction

Experience a mouthwatering twist on kale with this French-style grilled kale with crispy bacon. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve perfectly crispy kale with smoky, savory bacon, all while infusing a touch of garlic for a flavor-packed side dish or appetizer. The flat cooktop griddle ensures an even sear without burning, creating a deliciously crunchy texture that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch of kale, stems removed, leaves torn into large pieces
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
• Juice of ½ a lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
4. Light the paper and wait about 20 minutes for the grill to heat up.

Step 2: Cook the bacon

1. Place the diced bacon on the hotter part of the flat top griddle.
2. Cook until the bacon becomes crispy, stirring occasionally.
3. Move the crispy bacon to a cooler area of the cooktop.

Step 3: Grill the kale

1. Melt the butter on the cooktop.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
3. Spread the kale leaves over the griddle in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
5. Cook for 3-5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the edges are crispy.

Step 4: Combine and finish

1. Mix the crispy bacon with the kale and toss well.
2. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the grilled kale.
3. Remove from the grill and serve immediately.

Tips

• For maximum crispiness, avoid overcrowding the cooktop with kale.
• Monitor the heat zones; cook kale on medium heat to prevent burning.
• Add red pepper flakes for a slight kick.

Variations

1. Parmesan Kale: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the kale just before it finishes grilling.
2. Spicy Sriracha Kale: Drizzle with Sriracha sauce for a spicy twist.
3. Maple Bacon Kale: Add a touch of maple syrup over the kale and bacon mix for a sweet contrast.
4. Sesame Garlic Kale: Sprinkle sesame seeds and a dash of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired variation.
5. Herbed Butter Kale: Mix fresh chopped rosemary or thyme into the butter before grilling.

Conclusion

French-style grilled kale with bacon is a quick, delicious, and crispy dish straight from the Arteflame grill. The mix of smoky bacon, rich butter, and crunchy kale makes this an unforgettable side dish that complements any meal.

Best Pairings

• Grilled ribeye steak
• Seared salmon
• Garlic butter shrimp
• Roasted potatoes
• Crusty French baguette