Raclette (Melted Cheese with Potatoes & Pickles)

Name: Raclette (Melted Cheese with Potatoes & Pickles)
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Switzerland
Ingredients: Raclette cheese, sliced — 800 g (1.75 lb); Small waxy potatoes, boiled in their skins — 800 g (1.75 lb); Cornichons (small pickles); Pickled onions; Black pepper, — to taste; Cured meats, such as air-dried beef, to serve (optional)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Servings

Ingredients

Raclette cheese, sliced — 800 g (1.75 lb)
Small waxy potatoes, boiled in their skins — 800 g (1.75 lb)
Cornichons (small pickles)
Pickled onions
Black pepper, — to taste
Cured meats, such as air-dried beef, to serve (optional)

Method

Boil the potatoes in their skins until tender, about 15-20 minutes, then keep warm.
Arrange slices of raclette cheese on the small raclette pans (coupelles).
Melt the cheese under the raclette grill for 3-5 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned on top.
Slide the melted cheese over the warm potatoes.
Serve with cornichons, pickled onions, black pepper and cured meats alongside.

Introduction: Originating in the canton of Valais, raclette takes its name from the French word ‘racler’ — to scrape — describing how melted cheese is traditionally scraped from a wheel held to a fire.

Cultural Background: Originating in the canton of Valais, raclette takes its name from the French word ‘racler’ — to scrape — describing how melted cheese is traditionally scraped from a wheel held to a fire. Today it is enjoyed at the table with a small electric grill, alongside potatoes and pickles.

Tips: Keep the potatoes warm under a cloth while the cheese melts in batches. Let guests melt their own portions at the table for the full communal experience.

Variations: Add a scattering of dried herbs like thyme over the cheese before melting. Serve with grilled vegetables for a lighter accompaniment.

Storage: Best eaten fresh; melted cheese does not store or reheat well.

Reheating: Not recommended once melted; prepare fresh portions instead.

FAQs:

Q: What does ‘raclette’ mean?

A: It comes from the French verb ‘racler’, meaning ‘to scrape’, describing the traditional method of scraping melted cheese from a wheel.

Q: Can I make raclette without special equipment?

A: Yes, cheese slices can be melted under a regular grill on small oven-safe dishes as an alternative.