Grilled Welsh Cockles with Garlic Butter

Introduction

Fresh Welsh cockles grilled to perfection with lashings of garlic butter, creating a rich and flavorful seafood starter. The Arteflame grill ensures an even, sizzling sear, enhancing the natural sweetness of the cockles while infusing them with smoky goodness. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh Welsh cockles
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper napkins and allow the fire to build up.
4. Let the grill preheat for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Clean the Cockles

1. Rinse the cockles under cold water.
2. Soak them in salted water for 20 minutes to purge any sand.
3. Drain and rinse again.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

1. Melt the butter in a small dish.
2. Mix in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 4: Grill the Cockles

1. Place the cockles directly onto the flat cooktop of the Arteflame grill.
2. Grill for 3-5 minutes, until they open up.
3. Spoon the garlic butter mixture over the open cockles.
4. Allow the butter to melt and infuse into the cockles for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the grilled cockles to a plate.
2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
3. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips

• Discard any cockles that do not open after grilling.
• Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
• Adjust seasoning to taste with extra salt or spice.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill to ensure even cooking.

Variations

• Spicy Chilli Cockles: Add 1 tsp of finely chopped red chili for extra heat.
• White Wine Butter Cockles: Mix in 2 tbsp of dry white wine into the garlic butter for a rich taste.
• Herb-Infused Cockles: Add fresh thyme and oregano for an aromatic twist.
• Cheesy Garlic Cockles: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the cockles before serving.
• Citrus Zest Cockles: Add grated lemon and orange zest for a citrusy finish.

Best Pairings

• Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry white wine
• Grilled asparagus or charred zucchini
• Crusty sourdough bread to soak up the garlic butter
• A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted potatoes with herbs

Conclusion

The Arteflame grilled Welsh cockles with garlic butter is an easy yet luxurious seafood dish perfect for any occasion. The intense heat of the Arteflame locks in the delicate briny flavors while the garlic butter enhances their richness. Enjoy this outstanding dish fresh off the grill.