Belgian Grilled Chicory with Blue Cheese

Introduction

Grilled chicory paired with melted blue cheese creates a rich, creamy, and slightly bitter flavor contrast. Using the Arteflame grill ensures a perfectly even sear, enhancing the natural smokiness of the dish. This recipe is simple but delivers incredible results, making it a great appetizer or side dish.

Ingredients

• 4 heads of chicory (Belgian endive), halved lengthwise
• 4 oz blue cheese (Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp chopped walnuts (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach the perfect temperature for even searing.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicory

1. Cut the chicory heads in half lengthwise.
2. Brush the cut sides with melted butter.
3. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Grill the Chicory

1. Place the chicory halves cut side down on the flat griddle cooktop near the center where it's hotter.
2. Grill for about 3–4 minutes until caramelized and slightly charred.
3. Flip the chicory and cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Blue Cheese and Honey

1. Move the grilled chicory to a slightly cooler area of the cooktop.
2. Top each piece with crumbled blue cheese.
3. Let the blue cheese melt slightly while the chicory finishes cooking.
4. Drizzle honey over the chicory before removing from the grill.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the chicory to a serving platter.
2. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top (optional).
3. Garnish with fresh parsley.
4. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips

• Use high-quality blue cheese for the best creamy contrast.
• Keep chicory near the center of the cooktop for a perfect caramelization.
• Drizzle extra honey for a touch more sweetness.
• If using walnuts, toast them lightly on the Arteflame for extra flavor.

Variations

1. Goat Cheese & Balsamic: Substitute blue cheese with goat cheese and drizzle balsamic reduction instead of honey.
2. Parmesan & Pine Nuts: Swap blue cheese for grated Parmesan and garnish with toasted pine nuts.
3. Pear & Walnut: Add thinly-sliced pears on top before grilling and sprinkle with walnuts.
4. Smoky Bacon & Blue Cheese: Add crispy bacon bits over the blue cheese for extra smokiness.
5. Spicy Honey & Chili Flakes: Use spicy honey and a sprinkle of chili flakes to give it a kick.

Conclusion

Belgian grilled chicory with blue cheese is a delicious, smoky, and slightly bitter dish that balances perfectly with creamy cheese and sweet honey. The Arteflame grill ensures ultimate caramelization and an intense flavor profile, making this an outstanding appetizer or side dish.

Best Pairings

• Grilled steak or lamb chops
• Crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc
• Dark Belgian beer
• Crusty toasted bread
• Grilled peaches or figs for extra sweetness