Introduction

This Austrian-inspired dish delivers an irresistible balance of smoky, crispy bacon wrapped around sweet, juicy dried plums. Perfectly seared on the Arteflame grill, these bites achieve a caramelized exterior while staying tender inside. The high heat sear ensures the bacon crisps up beautifully without overcooking the interior. Ideal as an appetizer or snack, this grilled delight will impress any guest.

Ingredients

• 12 dried plums (prunes)
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, halved
• 1 tablespoon butter (for the cooktop)
• Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
• Fresh rosemary (for garnish, optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil over three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood on top of the napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to burn for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches optimal temperature.

Step 2: Wrap the plums

1. Wrap each dried plum with a half slice of bacon.
2. Secure each wrapped plum using a toothpick.

Step 3: Grill the bacon-wrapped plums

1. Place a tablespoon of butter on the Arteflame flat cooktop and spread evenly.
2. Arrange the bacon-wrapped plums near the center of the cooktop for a high-heat sear.
3. Grill for about 2-3 minutes per side until the bacon crisps and caramelizes.
4. Move them to the outer cooktop area to finish cooking to perfection without burning.

Step 4: Serve and garnish

1. Remove the plums from the grill when the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
2. Let them rest for a couple of minutes.
3. Garnish with fresh rosemary and freshly ground black pepper.
4. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips

• Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor.
• For extra caramelization, brush the plums with a touch of honey before grilling.
• Always place the bacon-wrapped plums in the high-heat areas for an even sear, then move them outward to finish cooking.

Variations

• Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Plums: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper before wrapping with bacon for a spicy kick.
• Cheese-Stuffed Plums: Insert a small piece of blue cheese inside the plum before wrapping for added richness.
• Pecan-Crusted Bacon-Wrapped Plums: Roll the bacon-wrapped plums in crushed pecans before grilling for a nutty crunch.
• Honey-Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Plums: Brush with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard before searing for a sweet-savory contrast.
• Balsamic & Herb Bacon-Wrapped Plums: Drizzle balsamic glaze and sprinkle with chopped thyme before serving for extra depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Flame-seared bacon-wrapped plums are a simple yet elegant dish that marries smokiness with sweetness. Using the Arteflame grill ensures perfect caramelization without burning, making this an easy and impressive appetizer. Try different variations to make this recipe truly your own!

Best Pairings

• Austrian Grüner Veltliner wine
• Freshly baked sourdough bread
• Grilled asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts
• Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert