Introduction

If you're looking for the ultimate Mexican grilling experience, this Grilled Oaxacan String Cheese recipe is a must-try. Melty, smoky, and bursting with flavor, it's the perfect appetizer or side dish. Cooking on the Arteflame grill enhances the cheese’s creamy texture while giving it a beautifully golden crust. Serve it with warm tortillas and fresh salsa for an authentic taste of Oaxaca.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Oaxacan string cheese
• 1 tbsp butter
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup fresh salsa (pico de gallo or salsa verde)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up your Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood on top and light the paper.
4. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes until the flat top cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Prepare the cheese

1. Unravel the Oaxacan cheese into thick strips for even grilling.
2. Brush the cheese with melted butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the cheese

1. Place the cheese strips onto the flat griddle cooktop near the center where it’s hottest.
2. Let the cheese cook until it softens and forms a golden crust (about 1-2 minutes per side).
3. Use a spatula to carefully flip the cheese once grill marks appear.

Step 4: Warm the tortillas

1. While the cheese is grilling, place the tortillas on the outer edges of the cooktop.
2. Flip them once they become warm and slightly toasty.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the grilled cheese onto a serving platter.
2. Serve with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, lime wedges, and a garnish of cilantro.
3. Encourage guests to wrap the cheese in tortillas and top with salsa for the ultimate flavor.

Tips

• Grill cheese in thick strips to keep it from melting too quickly.
• Use fresh tortillas for the best taste and texture.
• The cheese will continue softening after coming off the grill; serve immediately.
• Grill the cheese in batches if necessary to maintain optimal heat control.

Variations

1. Chorizo Infused: Grill crumbled chorizo on the Arteflame flat top and mix it with the grilled cheese before wrapping in tortillas.
2. Smoky Chipotle: Add a sprinkle of chipotle powder on the cheese before grilling for an extra smoky flavor.
3. Herb & Garlic: Brush the cheese with garlic-infused butter and sprinkle with fresh oregano before grilling.
4. Spicy Jalapeño: Add thinly sliced grilled jalapeños to the tortilla wrap for a spicy kick.
5. Classic Mexican Street Style: Top the grilled cheese with a drizzle of crema and crumbled cotija cheese.

Conclusion

Grilled Oaxacan String Cheese is an easy yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine. With the Arteflame grill, you get perfectly seared cheese with a crispy outside and gooey inside. Pair it with fresh salsa and tortillas for a delicious experience straight from the grill.

Best Pairings

• A smoky mezcal cocktail
• A side of grilled nopales (cactus pads)
• Black bean and corn salad
• Cold Mexican lager beer
• Roasted poblano peppers