Winter Grilled Belgian Roquefort Pears
Introduction
Grilling fruit brings out incredible depths of flavor, and when combined with creamy Belgian Roquefort, you get a sweet and savory delight that melts in your mouth. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve a flawless caramelization on pears while the cheese melts perfectly over them. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for winter gatherings or as a unique appetizer to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe but firm pears, halved and cored
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 oz Belgian Roquefort cheese
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup crushed walnuts
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
- Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
- Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light them.
- Allow the Arteflame grill to heat up for about 20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Pears
- Cut the pears in half and remove the cores.
- Brush the cut sides with melted butter.
Step 3: Grill the Pears
- Place the pears cut-side down on the Arteflame flat cooktop, close to the center for a higher temperature.
- Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until caramelized.
- Flip the pears and move them slightly outward to a cooler temperature zone.
Step 4: Add the Roquefort
- Top each pear half with Belgian Roquefort cheese.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Drizzle honey over the pears.
- Sprinkle crushed walnuts for added texture.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips
- Use slightly under-ripe pears to prevent them from becoming too soft on the grill.
- If you prefer a smokier flavor, move the pears closer to the firewood for a light char.
- Adjust sweetness with more or less honey based on preference.
Variations
- Spiced Pears: Add a dash of nutmeg and clove for a warm, holiday flavor.
- Balsamic Glaze: Instead of honey, use a balsamic reduction for a tangy twist.
- Prosciutto Wrapped: Wrap the pears in thin slices of prosciutto before grilling for a salty contrast.
- Cranberry Walnut: Add dried cranberries for a tart balance to the creamy cheese.
- Maple & Pecan: Swap honey for maple syrup and use pecans instead of walnuts for a richer aroma.
Conclusion
Grilling pears on the Arteflame brings out their natural sugars, creating a caramelized exterior while maintaining their juicy texture. Topped with Belgian Roquefort and a drizzle of honey, this dish is an elegant combination of sweet and savory, perfect for winter gatherings.
Best Pairings
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
- Fresh arugula salad with balsamic dressing
- Grilled baguette slices for extra crunch
- Toasted nuts and dried fruits on the side