Switzerland
Swiss
Illustrated guide

Raclette

Raclette is a traditional Swiss dish that highlights melted cheese, often served with potatoes, pickles, and cured meats. This cozy meal is perfect for gatherings and brings a warm, delightful experience to the dining table.

Prep10 minutes
Cook30 minutes
LevelEasy
Serves4
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Raclette

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Illustrated cooking guide

Step-by-step visual method

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Raclette illustrated step-by-step cooking guide

Written method

Instructions

Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.

  1. 1

    Begin by washing the baby potatoes and placing them in a pot of salted water.

  2. 2

    Bring the pot to a boil and let the potatoes cook for about 20 minutes, or until tender.

  3. 3

    While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the cured meats by arranging them on a platter.

  4. 4

    Next, slice the Raclette cheese into thick slices that will melt easily.

  5. 5

    Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and keep them warm.

  6. 6

    Prepare your raclette grill or a small baking tray under the broiler.

  7. 7

    Melt each slice of Raclette cheese in a raclette pan or on a heatproof plate under the broiler until bubbling but not browned hard.

  8. 8

    Scrape the melted cheese over the hot potatoes at the table and serve immediately with cornichons, pickled onions and the cured meats.

Cook notes

Tips

Use small, waxy potatoes for the best texture.

Select high-quality Raclette cheese for a richer flavor.

Pairing different types of cured meats can enhance the experience.

Cook smarter

Helpful notes

Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.

Storage Tips

  • Store leftover Raclette cheese in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly.
  • Cooked potatoes can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Substitutions

  • If Raclette cheese is unavailable, substitute with Gruyère or Emmental cheese.
  • Cured meats can be swapped for using grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.

What to Serve With

  • Fresh crusty bread
  • Green salad
  • Steamed vegetables

Common Mistakes

  • Overcooking the potatoes can make them mushy; test for doneness with a fork.
  • Using cheeses that don't melt well will affect the dish's texture.
  • Not seasoning the meal properly can lead to bland flavors.

Recipe FAQ

What type of cheese is best for Raclette?

The best cheese for Raclette is traditional Raclette cheese, which melts beautifully and has a rich flavor.

Can I make Raclette without a grill?

Yes, you can use a broiler in your oven to melt the cheese on potatoes.

What meats can I serve with Raclette?

Common meats include prosciutto, salami, or any cured meats you prefer.

Kitchen tools

Helpful Tools for This Recipe

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Skillet

Useful for browning, quick sautes, and weeknight one-pan cooking.

Chef knife

A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.

Cutting board

Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.

Measuring spoons

Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.

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