California Fire-Roasted Red Peppers on the Arteflame
Introduction
Fire-roasted red peppers bring a rich, smoky sweetness to your plate. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve a deep char on the peppers before peeling and marinating them in butter. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect as a side, topping, or ingredient for other meals.
Ingredients
- 4 large red bell peppers
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
- Place the soaked napkins inside the grill.
- Stack firewood over the napkins.
- Light the napkins and allow the fire to build.
- Wait about 20 minutes until the grill is hot and ready for cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the peppers
- Rinse the red bell peppers and pat them dry.
- Place them directly on the center grill grate to blacken the skin evenly.
Step 3: Roast the peppers
- Turn the peppers occasionally using tongs to ensure all sides are blistered and blackened.
- Roast for about 8-10 minutes, until the skins are charred and the peppers have softened.
Step 4: Steam and peel
- Remove the peppers from the grill and place them in a bowl.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the peppers steam for 10 minutes.
- Once they have cooled slightly, peel off the charred skins and discard them.
- Remove the stems and seeds.
- Slice the peeled peppers into strips.
Step 5: Marinate the peppers
- Drizzle the melted butter over the roasted pepper strips.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Add chopped fresh basil and balsamic vinegar if using.
- Let the flavors meld for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Leaving the peppers in a covered bowl allows them to steam, making it easier to remove the skins.
- Use tongs to rotate the peppers for even blistering.
- Adjust the heat zones on the Arteflame by moving the peppers towards the outer edge if needed.
Variations
- Smoky Garlic Butter: Add roasted minced garlic to the butter for extra depth.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Herb Infused: Marinate the peppers with rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Citrus Zest: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Parmesan Topped: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the marinated peppers.
Conclusion
California-style fire-roasted red peppers cooked on the Arteflame grill are rich, smoky, and versatile. These charred beauties can be used in salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish. Simple to prepare and full of bold flavors, this recipe is a must-try for grilling enthusiasts.
Best Pairings
- Grilled steak reverse-seared on the Arteflame.
- Fresh, crusty Italian bread.
- Soft goat cheese or burrata.
- Grilled chicken or fish.
- A glass of California Cabernet Sauvignon.