Grilled Pumpkin with Maple Cinnamon Glaze - Connecticut Style

Introduction

Nothing says fall in Connecticut like perfectly grilled pumpkin wedges coated in a buttery maple cinnamon glaze. Using the Arteflame grill, we achieve a caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. The result? A smoky, sweet, and spiced treat that makes a perfect side dish or even a stand-alone star at any gathering. The Arteflame's even heat distribution ensures every bite is perfectly grilled with no risk of burning. Let’s fire up the grill and get started!

Ingredients

• 1 small sugar pumpkin, cut into wedges
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• Chopped pecans (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up 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.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to burn for about 20 minutes until the grill is ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, sea salt, and ground cloves.

Step 3: Grill the pumpkin

1. Brush the pumpkin wedges generously with the maple cinnamon glaze.
2. Place the pumpkin wedges on the hotter inner section of the flat top griddle of the Arteflame grill.
3. Grill for about 5 minutes until grill marks appear, then turn them over and brush with more glaze.
4. Move the pumpkin wedges toward the outer edges of the griddle to continue cooking until tender, another 10-12 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

1. Remove the pumpkin from the grill and transfer to a serving plate.
2. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips

• Use a sugar pumpkin as it has a sweeter and smoother texture.
• For extra smokiness, lightly char the pumpkin wedges before moving them to a cooler section of the griddle.
• Add a dash of chili powder for a spicy kick.
• Serve with a drizzle of extra maple syrup for added sweetness.

Variations

1. Honey Vanilla Glaze: Replace maple syrup with honey and add 1 tsp of vanilla extract.
2. Balsamic Herb Glaze: Substitute maple syrup with balsamic vinegar and add fresh rosemary.
3. Brown Sugar Butter: Use brown sugar instead of maple syrup for a deeper caramel flavor.
4. Spicy Maple Chili: Add 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy taste.
5. Coconut Sugar Glaze: Replace maple syrup with coconut sugar for a unique sweetness.

Conclusion

Grilled pumpkin with a buttery maple cinnamon glaze is a must-try dish for fall in Connecticut. The Arteflame grill ensures perfect caramelization without burning, bringing out natural sweetness with a smoky depth. Whether you're serving this dish as a side or a main attraction, it will be the highlight of any meal.

Best pairings

• Grilled pork tenderloin
• Maple-glazed salmon
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Apple cider
• Warm cranberry sauce