Greek Seftalia – Cypriot Sausage on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Seftalia is a traditional Greek-Cypriot sausage made with minced pork, parsley, and cinnamon, wrapped in caul fat and grilled to perfection. Using the Arteflame grill ensures a beautifully seared, juicy, and flavorful sausage, locking in all the delicious spices while creating an incredible texture. The sear from the center grill grate gives these sausages a steakhouse-quality crisp, while the flat cooktop slowly brings them to savory perfection. Fire up the grill and let’s make these incredible Seftalia sausages!

Ingredients

• 1 lb minced pork
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• Caul fat (enough to wrap each sausage)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and let the firewood burn for about 20 minutes until ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Seftalia mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine minced pork, grated onion, parsley, cinnamon, salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, breadcrumbs, and garlic.
2. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
3. Divide the mixture into small portions and shape them into sausage-like log shapes.

Step 3: Wrap the sausages in caul fat

1. Rinse the caul fat under cold water and cut it into small squares.
2. Wrap each sausage in a piece of caul fat to help retain moisture and enhance flavor.
3. Place the wrapped sausages on a tray, ready for grilling.

Step 4: Sear the sausages on the center grill grate

1. Add butter to the hot center grill grate.
2. Place the Seftalia sausages on the center grill grate for an initial high-heat sear.
3. Sear each side for 1-2 minutes until a crisp, golden-brown crust forms.

Step 5: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop

1. Move the seared sausages from the center grill grate to the flat cooktop.
2. Let them cook slowly until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
3. Remove from the grill when they reach 145°F, allowing the residual heat to bring them to the perfect doneness.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

1. Let the sausages rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve with warm pita bread, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing Greek salad.
3. Enjoy your perfectly grilled Greek Seftalia sausages!

Tips

• For an even juicier sausage, use a mix of pork and lamb.
• If caul fat is unavailable, use thin bacon strips as a substitute.
• Keep the sausages slightly smaller to ensure even cooking.
• Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
• Monitor the heat zones of the Arteflame grill to prevent overcooking.

Variations

1. Spicy Seftalia: Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
2. Lamb Seftalia: Use ground lamb instead of pork for a richer, more traditional flavor.
3. Garlic Herb Seftalia: Increase garlic to 2 cloves and add 1 tsp chopped rosemary.
4. Cheese-Stuffed Seftalia: Insert small feta cheese pieces in the center of each sausage before wrapping.
5. Smoky Seftalia: Add 1/2 tsp smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor.

Best Pairings

• Grilled pita bread
• Greek salad with feta cheese and olives
• Tzatziki sauce for dipping
• Grilled halloumi cheese
• Oven-roasted potatoes with oregano and lemon

Conclusion

Grilled Greek Seftalia is a delicious way to enjoy traditional flavors with a perfect smoky sear from the Arteflame grill. Cooking these sausages over wood fire enhances their aroma and taste, making them an unmissable dish for any grilling occasion. Try these variations to customize the recipe and pair them with the best sides for a complete feast!