Swedish Crispy Grilled Cheese with Västerbotten

Introduction

Experience the ultimate Swedish crispy grilled cheese using Västerbotten cheese, grilled on the Arteflame for a gooey, golden crust. This unique cooking method creates a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside delightfully melted.

Ingredients

• 200g Västerbotten cheese, thickly sliced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is heated evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese

1. Slice the Västerbotten cheese into thick pieces, allowing them to crisp while maintaining a gooey center.
2. Season with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.

Step 3: Grill the Cheese

1. Once the flat cooktop has reached an even temperature, place the cheese slices near the center for optimal heat.
2. Add a small amount of butter to the surface and allow it to melt.
3. Carefully place the cheese slices on the buttered griddle.

Step 4: Achieve the Perfect Crisp

1. Grill the cheese for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom is crisp and golden.
2. Flip each cheese slice using a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove from the grill and let them sit for 1 minute before serving.

Tips

• Use plenty of butter to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
• Move cheese slices to cooler heat zones if cooking too fast.
• Let the grilled cheese rest before serving to allow flavors to deepen.

Variations

1. Garlic Butter Crispy Cheese: Infuse butter with minced garlic before grilling for a bold flavor.
2. Spiced Västerbotten: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
3. Herb & Butter Infusion: Mix fresh thyme and rosemary into the butter for aromatic flavor.
4. Truffle & Cheese: Drizzle truffle oil over the cheese after grilling for a luxurious touch.
5. Honey Glazed: Add a thin layer of honey before grilling for a sweet-savory contrast.

Conclusion

Cooking crispy grilled cheese with Västerbotten on the Arteflame offers rich, caramelized flavors with a melty center. Try different variations to find your favorite combination!

Best Pairings

• Aged balsamic glaze
• Fresh sourdough bread
• Crisp apple slices
• Dijon mustard
• Light-bodied white wine