Polish Caramelized Onion and Cheese Toasts on the Grill

Introduction

This Polish-inspired caramelized onion and cheese toast recipe is a simple yet delicious dish that brings out rich flavors by grilling on the Arteflame. Caramelized onions add deep, sweet, and savory notes, while melted cheese provides a gooey, satisfying bite. Grilling the toasts on the flat cooktop ensures a perfectly crisp yet tender result. Whether served as an appetizer or a side, these toasts will impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of artisan bread, sliced
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp thyme (optional)
• 1 cup shredded Polish cheese (Oscypek or Gouda)
• 1 clove garlic, halved
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Caramelize the onions

1. Place the butter on the Arteflame’s flat cooktop close to the center for higher heat.
2. Add sliced onions to the melted butter and spread them evenly.
3. Sprinkle sugar, salt, black pepper, and thyme over the onions.
4. Cook the onions for about 15 minutes, moving them occasionally to prevent burning, until they turn golden brown and caramelized.
5. Move the onions to the outer area of the cooktop to keep warm without overcooking.

Step 3: Grill the bread

1. Place the bread slices on the flat cooktop near the center for about 1-2 minutes per side until lightly toasted.
2. Rub the grilled bread with the cut side of the garlic clove for extra flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the toasts

1. Top each toasted bread slice with a generous portion of caramelized onions.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the onions.
3. Return the prepared toasts to the grill close to the center to allow the cheese to melt.
4. Grill for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and melted.

Step 5: Finish and serve

1. Remove toasts from the grill.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips

• Use high-quality bread like sourdough or rye for the best texture.
• Keep the grill's heat zones in mind—cook onions near the center first and move them outward to avoid burning.
• Don’t rush the caramelization process; low and slow is key.
• For a smoky touch, lightly char the bread before adding toppings.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of smoked paprika to the onions for heat.
2. Mushroom Lover: Sauté mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy depth.
3. Meaty Option: Add grilled Polish kielbasa slices on top of the onions before melting the cheese.
4. Sweet and Savory: Drizzle honey over the toasts after grilling for a balance of flavors.
5. Herb Infused: Mix fresh dill or chives into the caramelized onions for extra freshness.

Conclusion

These Polish caramelized onion and cheese toasts made on the Arteflame grill are a fantastic way to enjoy a crispy, cheesy delight. The smoky, grilled flavor enhances the richness of caramelized onions and melted cheese, making them a perfect appetizer or complement to any grilled meal.

Best Pairings

• Grilled kielbasa sausage
• Pickled vegetables
• Polish beer or cider
• Fresh cucumber salad