Dutch Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Endives on the Arteflame

Introduction

Experience the rich flavors of Dutch crispy bacon-wrapped Belgian endives perfectly grilled on the Arteflame. The smokiness of the bacon combined with the slight bitterness of the endives creates an incredible taste sensation. The unique cooking method on the Arteflame grill ensures your bacon turns out crispy and delicious, while the endives remain tender and infused with flavor. This is a simple yet impressive dish that will be the highlight of your grilling session.

Ingredients

• 4 Belgian endives
• 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional for added flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Get the Arteflame Grill Ready

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Endives

1. Cut the Belgian endives in half lengthwise.
2. Brush each half with melted butter and season with salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme.
3. If using Dijon mustard, lightly spread a thin layer over the endives before wrapping with bacon.

Step 3: Wrap the Endives

1. Tightly wrap each endive half with a slice of bacon.
2. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to keep the bacon from unraveling.

Step 4: Grill the Bacon-Wrapped Endives

1. Place the wrapped endives on the flat top cooktop closer to the center for higher heat.
2. Sear each side until the bacon becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Move them to a slightly cooler area of the flat cooktop to finish cooking, about 5 more minutes.
4. Remove from the grill when the bacon is fully crisp and the endives are tender.

Tips

• Use thick-cut bacon for a richer flavor and better texture.
• For extra smokiness, use hickory or oak firewood.
• Cooking on the Arteflame flat cooktop prevents flare-ups and gives perfect, even cooking.
• Let the bacon-wrapped endives rest for a couple of minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.

Variations

1. Cheese-Stuffed Endives: Add a slice of aged Gouda inside the endive before wrapping with bacon.
2. Honey-Glazed Endives: Brush the wrapped endives with honey before grilling for a sweet and smoky finish.
3. Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Endives: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the endives before wrapping in bacon for a bit of heat.
4. Garlic Herb Endives: Mix butter with minced garlic and rosemary before brushing on the endives.
5. Balsamic-Glazed Endives: Drizzle with balsamic glaze after grilling for a tangy-sweet contrast.

Conclusion

Grilling bacon-wrapped endives on the Arteflame delivers an amazing texture and flavor combination that is simple yet gourmet. The smokiness of the bacon blends perfectly with the slight bitterness of the Belgian endives, making this a must-try dish. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and make sure to pair this dish with great sides for a complete meal.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with lemon butter
• Roasted baby potatoes on the Arteflame cooktop
• A crisp Dutch white beer
• Crusty artisan sourdough bread