Portuguese Grilled Figs with Goat Cheese

Ingredients

• 8 fresh figs, halved
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light them.
4. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot and ready.

Step 2: Prepare the figs

1. Cut the figs in half lengthwise.
2. Brush the cut sides with melted butter.
3. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt and black pepper on each fig half.

Step 3: Grill the figs

1. Place the figs cut-side down on the Arteflame flat cooktop griddle near the center for optimal heat.
2. Grill for about 2-3 minutes until caramelized and slightly soft.
3. Gently flip the figs and let them grill for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Add the goat cheese

1. Transfer the grilled figs to a cooler part of the cooktop.
2. Top each fig half with crumbled goat cheese.
3. Let them warm slightly for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Finish with honey and nuts

1. Drizzle honey over the figs.
2. Sprinkle with toasted walnuts and fresh basil.
3. Remove from the grill and serve immediately.

Tips

• Use ripe but firm figs to ensure they hold their shape while grilling.
• Grill the figs on the flat cooktop to avoid burning and achieve a perfect caramelization.
• For a richer flavor, use a high-quality creamy goat cheese.
• Adjust grilling time based on the heat zone of your Arteflame grill.

Variations

1. Sweet & Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the honey drizzle for a kick of heat.
2. Portuguese Almond Delight: Swap walnuts for toasted almonds for a traditional Portuguese twist.
3. Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction instead of honey for a more tangy sweetness.
4. Prosciutto Wrapped: Wrap each fig half in a thin slice of prosciutto before grilling for a salty contrast.
5. Blue Cheese Twist: Replace goat cheese with blue cheese for a stronger, tangier flavor.

Conclusion

Grilling figs on the Arteflame grill brings out their natural sugars and pairs beautifully with creamy goat cheese for a decadent appetizer. The even heat from the flat cooktop ensures perfect caramelization without burning. Drizzle with honey and top with toasted nuts for the ultimate sweet-savory delight!

Best Pairings

• A crisp Portuguese Vinho Verde or a light Sauvignon Blanc.
• Toasted artisan bread or crostini for extra crunch.
• Grilled meats like steak or pork chops cooked using the reverse searing method.
• Fresh arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette.