Dutch Bacon-Wrapped Poached Pears on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Experience an elegant Dutch-inspired dessert with these bacon-wrapped poached pears, infused with red wine and caramelized to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The sweet and savory combination makes this a standout dish, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 firm winter pears (such as Bosc or Anjou), peeled
• 1 bottle of red wine
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Optional: honey for drizzling
• Optional: chopped nuts for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for 20 minutes until the cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Poach the pears on the flat cooktop

1. Place the pears on the hotter inner section of the flat cooktop.
2. Pour the red wine around the pears, allowing it to reduce and soak into the fruit.
3. Sprinkle the brown sugar, add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and vanilla extract.
4. Slowly rotate the pears as the wine simmers, ensuring they absorb the flavors and soften.
5. Poach for about 20 minutes until the pears are tender but not mushy.

Step 3: Wrap and sear the pears with bacon

1. Wrap each pear with two slices of thick-cut bacon, securing the ends under the bottom.
2. Move the pears onto the center grill grate to sear.
3. Allow the bacon to crisp up evenly, rotating occasionally, about 3-5 minutes per side.
4. Once the bacon is crispy, move the pears to the flat cooktop to finish caramelizing.

Step 4: Serve

1. Drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
2. Sprinkle with chopped nuts for texture.
3. Enjoy warm, straight from the grill!

Tips

• Use a firm pear variety to maintain structure while poaching.
• Maple-glazed bacon can enhance the sweet-salty flavor.
• Let the wine reduce thoroughly to intensify flavors.
• Move the pears away from the hottest zones to prevent burning.
• Use thick-cut bacon to ensure a crisp, flavorful wrap.

Variations

1. Spiced Orange Pears: Add orange zest and star anise to the poaching liquid for a citrusy twist.
2. Vanilla Bourbon Pears: Replace red wine with bourbon and add a touch of vanilla bean.
3. Chocolate-Drizzled Pears: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished pears.
4. Nut-Stuffed Pears: Core the pears and stuff with crushed walnuts before wrapping in bacon.
5. Peppery Bacon Pears: Use pepper-crusted bacon for a spicy kick that contrasts the sweetness.

Conclusion

These Dutch Bacon-Wrapped Poached Pears are a luxurious creation that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. Using the Arteflame grill ensures ultimate caramelization and crispy bacon, making this dish truly unforgettable.

Best Pairings

• A glass of port wine or mulled cider.
• Vanilla bean ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Toasted brioche for a crispy texture.
• Crumbled blue cheese for a tangy-sweet balance.
• A rich espresso to enhance the deep flavors.