Grilled Idaho Cowboy Beans on the Arteflame

Introduction

Smoky cowboy beans slow-cooked and caramelized on the Arteflame grill for a bold and rich flavor. This hearty dish is perfect for any barbecue gathering, packed with bacon, beans, and a touch of sweetness that makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dry pinto beans, soaked overnight
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
5. Wait about 20 minutes until the cooktop reaches optimal grilling temperature.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. Place the chopped bacon on the flat griddle cooktop near the center of the grill for a perfect sizzle.
2. Cook until crispy, then move bacon to the side of the cooktop.
3. Leave the bacon fat on the griddle to enhance the flavor of the beans.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the griddle, stirring in the bacon fat.
2. Cook until onions are soft and caramelized.

Step 4: Cook the Beans

1. Move the caramelized onions and garlic further from the heat zone.
2. Drain the soaked beans and place them onto the griddle.
3. Stir in the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in two cups of water and mix well.

Step 5: Simmer the Beans

1. Bring the bean mixture to a simmer by keeping it in the medium heat zone of the griddle.
2. Stir occasionally while letting them slow-cook and caramelize for about an hour.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Stir in butter and crispy bacon just before serving.
2. Remove from heat and serve hot.

Tips

• For extra smoky flavor, add a couple of wood chunks near the fire while cooking.
• Adjust sweetness by modifying the amount of brown sugar.
• Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking on the hot griddle.
• For spicier beans, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Variations

• Spicy Jalapeño Beans: Add diced jalapeños for a fiery kick.
• Maple Bacon Beans: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup to add a rich sweetness.
• Beer-Infused Beans: Replace half the water with a light lager for bold depth.
• Tex-Mex Cowboy Beans: Stir in diced tomatoes and ground beef for a hearty Tex-Mex twist.
• Sweet & Smoky Beans: Use honey instead of sugar and toss in smoked sausage.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Ribeye Steak
• Smoky BBQ Chicken
• Grilled Corn on the Cob
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes
• Classic Buttermilk Cornbread

Conclusion

These Grilled Idaho Cowboy Beans are the perfect addition to any backyard gathering. Cooked entirely on the Arteflame grill, every bite is infused with deep, caramelized barbecue flavor. Try out different variations to find your favorite version, and enjoy a dish that's both comforting and bold!