Austrian Tyrolean Pancetta Wrapped Alpine Cheese

Introduction

Indulge in the authentic flavors of Austria with this delicious Tyrolean Pancetta Wrapped Alpine Cheese recipe. Melty, smoky Alpine cheese is wrapped in savory pancetta and grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The intense heat of the center grill grate sears the pancetta beautifully, while the surrounding flat cooktop gently melts the cheese inside without burning it. This easy-to-make dish is packed with rich flavors, making it the perfect appetizer or side dish for any outdoor gathering. Let’s fire up the Arteflame and get grilling!

Ingredients

• 8 oz Alpine cheese, cut into thick slices
• 8 slices of pancetta
• 2 tbsp butter
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Honey (for drizzling, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to build up for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop reaches the ideal grilling temperature.

Step 2: Wrap the cheese

1. Cut the Alpine cheese into thick slices.
2. Wrap each cheese slice completely with a slice of pancetta, ensuring full coverage to keep the cheese from oozing out while grilling.
3. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 3: Grill the pancetta-wrapped cheese

1. Melt the butter on the flat top cooktop near the center where it is hotter.
2. Place the wrapped cheese on the cooktop and let the pancetta sear for about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Flip carefully using tongs and continue cooking until all sides are golden brown, and the cheese inside is warm and soft.

Step 4: Serve and enjoy

1. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a minute.
2. Sprinkle with fresh thyme and black pepper.
3. Drizzle with honey if desired for a sweet-savory contrast.

Tips

• Make sure the cheese is well-wrapped to prevent it from melting too quickly.
• Use thicker slices of Alpine cheese to maintain texture while grilling.
• Preheat the cooktop properly so the pancetta crisps up without over-melting the cheese.
• Rotate the wrapped cheese on the flat cooktop for an even crispiness on all sides.

Variations

• Herb-Infused: Add chopped rosemary or thyme inside the pancetta wrap for an aromatic touch.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes inside the wrap or use spicy pancetta.
• Smoky Version: Use smoked Alpine cheese for deeper flavor.
• Sweet & Savory: Wrap the cheese in pancetta and drizzle with maple syrup instead of honey.
• Nutty Crunch: Coat the outside lightly with crushed walnuts before grilling.

Conclusion

This Austrian-inspired grilled Alpine cheese wrapped in crispy pancetta is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will impress at any gathering. The Arteflame grill creates the perfect environment for achieving a rich, golden sear while gently melting the cheese to perfection. Pair it with your favorite accompaniments and enjoy the melted, smoky goodness!

Best pairings

• Crusty artisanal bread
• Grilled vegetables
• Austrian white wine (Grüner Veltliner)
• Fresh fruit like figs or apples
• Dark beer for a bold contrast