Italian Crispy Grilled Guanciale Strips

Introduction

Guanciale, the richly flavored Italian cured pork jowl, crisps up beautifully on the Arteflame grill, making the perfect snack or topping for various dishes. The high-heat center grill grate ensures a rapid sear, locking in flavor while rendering the fat to crispy, golden perfection. With no need for pots or pans, this recipe embraces the pure outdoor grilling experience, delivering a deliciously crunchy bite every time.

Ingredients

• 8 oz guanciale, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• Fresh cracked black pepper (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins inside the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to develop for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop is evenly heated.

Step 2: Grill the guanciale

1. Place the guanciale strips directly on the flat cooktop near the hotter center zone.
2. Add a small amount of butter to enhance flavor and crispiness.
3. Allow the fat to render slowly while flipping occasionally to ensure even crisping.
4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 3: Rest and serve

1. Remove the guanciale from the grill once fully crisp.
2. Let it rest for a minute to allow residual heat to finish crisping the strips.
3. Season with fresh cracked black pepper if desired and serve immediately.

Tips

• For extra crispiness, ensure the guanciale is cut consistently thin.
• Grilling near the center enhances searing, but move the strips outward if they cook too quickly.
• Guanciale will continue to crisp as it cools, so remove it slightly before it looks fully done.

Variations

1. Spicy Guanciale: Add a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes before grilling for a slight kick.
2. Herb-Infused Guanciale: Sprinkle dried rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
3. Honey Glazed Guanciale: Brush with a light coating of honey in the last minute of cooking for a sweet-savory balance.
4. Balsamic Drizzled Guanciale: Just before serving, drizzle with a small amount of aged balsamic vinegar for a complex sweetness.
5. Smoky Paprika Guanciale: Dust with smoked paprika for an extra depth of smoky flavor.

Conclusion

These crispy grilled guanciale strips are a testament to the simplicity and excellence of Italian cooking. The Arteflame grill enhances the natural flavors while delivering an irresistible crunch, making this dish perfect for snacking or topping soups and pastas. Add your own twist with seasonings or glazes, and enjoy the bold flavors of this cherished Italian delicacy.

Best Pairings

• Freshly baked focaccia with a drizzle of olive oil
• A rich red wine like Chianti or Barbera
• Soft scrambled eggs for a luxurious breakfast
• Fresh figs or melon for a sweet contrast
• A warm bowl of creamy polenta