Bacon-Wrapped Finnish Smoked Cheese on the Grill

Introduction

Indulge in irresistibly crispy bacon-wrapped Finnish smoked cheese, grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. The bacon creates a deliciously crispy crust while the cheese gets irresistibly gooey inside. Whether you’re serving this as an appetizer or a decadent side, this easy grilling recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 200g Finnish smoked cheese, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Toothpicks (for securing the bacon)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins in the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the paper and wait about 20 minutes until the grill reaches cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese

1. Cut the Finnish smoked cheese into bite-sized pieces.
2. Wrap each piece of cheese with a slice of bacon, ensuring full coverage.
3. Secure with a toothpick so the bacon stays in place.

Step 3: Season and Butter the Wrappings

1. Brush each bacon-wrapped cheese piece with melted butter.
2. Sprinkle black pepper and smoked paprika evenly over the wrapped cheese.

Step 4: Grill the Bacon-Wrapped Cheese

1. Place the bacon-wrapped cheese on the flat cooktop near the hotter center.
2. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, rotating to ensure even crispness.
3. Move the cheese to the cooler zone of the cooktop to finish off and reach the perfect texture.

Step 5: Remove and Serve

1. Take the cheese off the grill once the bacon is crispy and the cheese is slightly melty.
2. Let rest for 2-3 minutes to avoid burning your mouth.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Use thick-cut bacon for better coverage and crispness.
• Keep the cheese chilled before grilling to prevent it from melting too quickly.
• For extra smokiness, use some flavored wood chunks in the fire.
• The bacon will cook evenly on the Arteflame’s flat cooktop without burning.
• Rotate the cheese often so every side crisps up perfectly.

Variations

1. Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Cheese: Add a thin slice of jalapeño before wrapping the cheese for a kick.
2. Honey-Glazed Cheese: Drizzle honey over the bacon before grilling for a sweet-savory twist.
3. Herb-Infused Cheese: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary with melted butter before basting the bacon.
4. Garlic Parmesan Bacon-Wrap: Sprinkle a little garlic powder and grated Parmesan before grilling.
5. Maple-Bacon Delight: Brush maple syrup over the bacon for a delicious caramelized crust.

Conclusion

Bacon-wrapped Finnish smoked cheese is a simple yet stunning dish that brings together crispy bacon and creamy smoked cheese in every bite. Grilling on the Arteflame ensures a perfect sear and texture combination. Gather your friends and family for an incredible grilling experience!

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus or zucchini for a lighter side.
• A crisp Riesling or a smoky bourbon for beverage pairing.
• Grilled crusty bread for an added crunch.
• Spicy dipping sauces like chipotle mayo or Sriracha aioli.