Norwegian Burnt Leek and Blue Cheese Dip

Introduction

Smoky, charred leeks blended into a creamy and tangy blue cheese dip—all grilled to perfection on the Arteflame Grill. This simple but delicious dip is perfect as an appetizer or a side dish to elevate any gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 large leeks, trimmed and cleaned
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 clove garlic, grilled and minced
• Chopped chives, for garnish
• Toasted bread or crackers, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of your Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper, and let the fire heat up. In about 20 minutes, the grill will be ready for cooking.

Step 2: Grill the Leeks

1. Brush the cleaned leeks with melted butter to enhance their smoky flavor.
2. Place them on the hottest part of the Arteflame flat cooktop near the center.
3. Grill, turning occasionally, until the outer layers are charred and the inside becomes tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Let the leeks cool slightly, then peel off the burnt outer layers before chopping.

Step 3: Grill the Garlic

1. Place the whole garlic clove on the cooktop’s outer edge.
2. Grill until it softens and turns golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Mince the grilled garlic.

Step 4: Blend the Dip

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the grilled leeks, sour cream, mayonnaise, blue cheese, lemon juice, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and the grilled garlic.
2. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped chives.
2. Serve with toasted bread or crackers.

Tips

• For extra smokiness, let the leeks sit on the grill a little longer before peeling.
• Use a high-quality blue cheese for the best flavor balance.
• Serve the dip warm or chilled, depending on your preference.

Variations

1. Spicy Norwegian Dip: Add ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
2. Herbed Blue Cheese Dip: Mix in 1 tbsp fresh dill and parsley for a fresh take.
3. Garlic Lover's Dip: Double the amount of grilled garlic for a richer, deeper flavor.
4. Nutty Blue Cheese Dip: Add ¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts for crunch.
5. Smoky Bacon Dip: Stir in ¼ cup crumbled grilled bacon for extra smokiness.

Conclusion

This Norwegian Burnt Leek and Blue Cheese Dip is the perfect blend of smokiness, creaminess, and tangy goodness. Impress your guests with its rich flavor and perfect texture—all thanks to the magic of the Arteflame grill.

Best Pairings

• Grilled sourdough bread
• Norwegian smoked salmon
• A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc
• Grilled vegetables for dipping