Introduction

These BBQ Maple-Glazed Idaho Bacon Skewers are the perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and crispy. Thick-cut Idaho bacon is grilled to perfection on the Arteflame, locking in all the smoky goodness while caramelizing the maple glaze for an irresistible finish. The result? A mouthwatering bacon skewer that’s packed with bold flavors and a perfect crunch. Ideal for appetizers, BBQ parties, or a fun weekend treat!

Ingredients

• 1 lb thick-cut Idaho bacon
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
4. In about 20 minutes, the grill will be ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the glaze

1. In a bowl, mix the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
2. Set aside for glazing the bacon.

Step 3: Skewer the bacon

1. Thread each bacon strip onto a wooden skewer in a weaving pattern.
2. Brush each skewer lightly with melted butter.

Step 4: Sear the bacon skewers

1. Place the skewers on the center grill grate for a quick sear at 1,000°F.
2. Sear for about 30 seconds per side to lock in flavors.

Step 5: Move to the flat cooktop for even cooking

1. Transfer the skewers to the flat-top cooktop.
2. Cook near the center for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally.
3. Brush with maple glaze every few minutes.

Step 6: Final glaze and removal

1. When the bacon reaches a crispy texture, remove it from the grill 15°F before desired doneness.
2. Drizzle with extra maple glaze before serving.

Tips

• Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Use the center grill grate only for searing to avoid overcooking.
• For extra glaze caramelization, move the skewers nearer to the center for a final crisp.

Variations

1. Spicy Maple Bacon Skewers: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a fiery kick.
2. Garlic-Honey Bacon Skewers: Substitute maple syrup with honey and add 1 minced garlic clove.
3. Bourbon-Glazed Bacon Skewers: Mix 1 tbsp bourbon into the maple glaze for a deep, smoky sweetness.
4. Peppercorn & Brown Sugar Bacon Skewers: Replace maple syrup with brown sugar and add crushed black pepper.
5. Teriyaki Bacon Skewers: Use teriyaki sauce instead of maple syrup for an Asian-inspired twist.

Conclusion

BBQ Maple-Glazed Idaho Bacon Skewers are the ultimate combination of crispy, smoky, and sweet. The Arteflame grill brings out the best flavors by searing the bacon to perfection. This dish is great for any occasion, and with the glaze variations, you can experiment with new flavors every time!

Best pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Smoky baked beans
• Grilled asparagus
• BBQ-style coleslaw
• Chilled craft beer or bourbon cocktails