Wood Fired Grilled Washington Pears

Introduction

There’s nothing like the sweet, smoky flavor you get when grilling fresh Washington pears over open wood fire. Using the Arteflame grill, this recipe brings the juicy elegance of pears together with a rich balsamic glaze, enhanced by the even sear and heat zones of the flat cooktop. Whether served as a side, dessert, or appetizer, these beautifully caramelized pears are sure to turn heads and tantalize taste buds.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe but firm Washington pears, halved and cored
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of sea salt
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Get the Arteflame Grill Ready

1. Pour a small amount of vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oil-soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack hardwood firewood over the soaked napkins.
4. Light the napkins to start the fire. Wait about 20 minutes until the flat top is hot and ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prep the Pears

1. Wash and halve the Washington pears, removing the cores.
2. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt.
3. Brush the cut sides of the pears with the butter mixture.

Step 3: Grill the Pears

1. Place the pear halves cut side down on the medium-high zone of the Arteflame cooktop, closer to the center.
2. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until the pears start to caramelize.
3. Flip the pears and grill the skin side for another 3-4 minutes to soften them through without overcooking.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Transfer the grilled pears to a serving dish.
2. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze.
3. Garnish with fresh mint if using.
4. Serve warm straight from the griddle.

Tips

• Use firm-ripe pears to ensure they hold their shape on the grill.
• Brush the flat top near the center with butter before placing the pears to intensify the caramelization.
• If you're grilling other foods at the same time, place the pears on the outer mid-zone of the cooktop after initial sear to hold warm.
• Rotate the pears slightly while grilling to create beautiful grill marks.
• You can make your own balsamic glaze by reducing balsamic vinegar and sugar until thickened.

Variations

1. Maple Vanilla Pears: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup and add a splash of vanilla extract for a deeper flavor.
2. Honey Thyme Pears: Drizzle with honey instead of balsamic glaze and sprinkle with fresh thyme for a savory-sweet combo.
3. Spiced Rum Pears: Add a teaspoon of spiced rum to the butter mixture for a bold flavor twist.
4. Blue Cheese Pears: Top each grilled pear half with crumbled blue cheese and balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch.
5. Coconut Caramel Pears: Use coconut sugar and finish with a light drizzle of coconut caramel and toasted shredded coconut.

Best pairings

• Serve with grilled pork chops or chicken for a sweet contrast.
• Pair with a crisp Riesling or Prosecco.
• Enjoy as dessert accompanied by vanilla bean ice cream.
• Serve over grilled sourdough as a warm bruschetta appetizer.
• Sprinkle with granola and Greek yogurt for a breakfast twist.

Conclusion

These Wood Fired Grilled Washington Pears transform a simple fruit into a show-stopping dish with help from the uniquely designed Arteflame grill. With perfectly seared surfaces and slow-smoked depth of flavor, this recipe is an easy way to impress guests or elevate your everyday grilling repertoire.