Austrian Bacon Wrapped Asparagus on the Grill

Introduction

Enjoy the smoky, crispy perfection of Austrian-style bacon-wrapped asparagus cooked entirely on the Arteflame grill. The bacon crisps up beautifully while the asparagus remains tender with a slight char. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect as an appetizer or side and brings out the best flavors of Austrian speck and fresh green asparagus.

Ingredients

• 1 lb green asparagus, trimmed
• 8-10 slices Austrian speck or smoked bacon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to build. The grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the asparagus

1. Trim off the woody ends of the asparagus stalks.
2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and sea salt.
3. Brush the asparagus spears lightly with the butter mixture.

Step 3: Wrap with speck

1. Take 2-3 asparagus spears and wrap them tightly with a slice of speck.
2. Repeat until all asparagus are wrapped.

Step 4: Grill the asparagus

1. Place the wrapped asparagus bundles on the flat cooktop surface, positioning near the center for higher heat.
2. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally for even crisping.
3. Remove once the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the grilled asparagus bundles to a serving dish.
2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over for added brightness.
3. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips

• For ultra-crispy bacon, grill closer to the center where the heat is higher.
• Use thicker asparagus spears to prevent overcooking before the bacon crisps.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.

Variations

1. Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan over the asparagus before wrapping.
2. Garlic Herb Twist: Add finely chopped rosemary and thyme to the melted butter for extra depth.
3. Prosciutto Wrapped: Substitute speck with prosciutto for a slightly sweeter, delicate flavor.
4. Asian Fusion: Brush with teriyaki glaze before grilling for a sweet-savory twist.
5. Smoky BBQ: Coat the asparagus with a thin layer of BBQ sauce before cooking.

Conclusion

This Austrian Bacon Wrapped Asparagus recipe is an easy and flavorful dish that highlights the power of open-fire grilling. The smoky, crispy bacon perfectly complements the tender asparagus, making it a delicious side or appetizer for any occasion. Enjoy this simple, elegant dish straight from your Arteflame grill!

Best Pairings

• Grilled steak for a hearty meal
• Austrian Riesling or Grüner Veltliner wine
• Roasted potatoes cooked on the Arteflame
• Fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette