Italian Alpine Cheese Fondue on the Grill

Introduction

Experience the perfect Italian-inspired Alpine cheese fondue, grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. The creamy, bubbling cheese is ideal for dipping grilled bread and vegetables, offering a rich and savory flavor. This recipe ensures an unbeatable texture and taste, all cooked to perfection over open fire.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Gruyère cheese, shredded
• 1 lb Fontina cheese, shredded
• 1 clove garlic, halved
• 1 1/2 cups dry white wine
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg
• 2 cups cubed baguette, grilled
• 1 cup grilled asparagus spears
• 1 cup grilled bell pepper slices
• 1 cup grilled mushrooms
• 1/2 cup grilled cherry tomatoes
• Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Start the Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. Rub a grill-safe cast-iron skillet with the halved garlic clove.
2. Place the skillet on the flat cooktop near the center for medium-high heat.
3. Add the white wine and let it warm up without boiling.

Step 3: Melt the Cheese

1. Gradually add the shredded Gruyère and Fontina cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly.
2. Mix cornstarch with lemon juice to create a slurry.
3. Stir the slurry into the melting cheese.

Step 4: Season and Smooth

1. Continue stirring while adding black pepper, nutmeg, and butter.
2. Let the mixture become smooth and creamy.
3. Move the skillet to a slightly cooler zone on the griddle.

Step 5: Grill the Accompaniments

1. Place the bread cubes on the griddle and toast until golden brown.
2. Grill asparagus, bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes until tender.
3. Season with salt and transfer to a serving platter.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the hot skillet to a serving board.
2. Dip the grilled bread and vegetables into the bubbling cheese.
3. Enjoy immediately!

Tips

• Use high-quality cheese for the best melting consistency.
• Stir constantly to prevent lumps.
• Avoid overheating the cheese to prevent separation.

Variations

1. Truffle Infused: Add a few drops of truffle oil for a luxurious touch.
2. Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
3. Herb Delight: Mix in fresh rosemary and thyme.
4. Beer Fondue: Replace white wine with a light lager.
5. Smoky Flavor: Use smoked Gouda instead of Fontina.

Conclusion

This Italian Alpine Cheese Fondue is the ultimate grilled comfort food. Melted cheese, grilled bread, and vegetables come together to create a rich, flavorful dish perfect for entertaining.

Best Pairings

• Dry white wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc)
• Grilled steak or prosciutto
• Fresh arugula salad