What is Raclette? The Social Dining Tradition Everyone’s Talking About

If you’ve ever been to Switzerland, chances are you’ve heard of raclette – a delicious dish that’s as much about sharing the experience as it is about the food itself. But what exactly is raclette, and why is it becoming such a popular way to dine at home?

The Origins of Raclette

Raclette gets its name from the French word racler, which means to scrape. Traditionally, a large wheel of raclette cheese would be melted by an open fire, and the gooey top layer would be scraped off onto plates of boiled potatoes, cured meats, and pickled vegetables. It was a hearty Alpine meal, perfect for warming up after a day in the mountains.

Over time, the tradition evolved into the electric raclette grill we know today – a tabletop appliance that allows everyone to melt cheese, cook vegetables, or grill meats together in a relaxed, social setting.

What You Cook on a Raclette Grill

The beauty of raclette dining is its flexibility. It’s not just about cheese (though that’s always the star of the show!) – it’s about creating a personalised meal right at the table. Here are some classic foods you might prepare on a raclette grill:

🧀 The Cheese

• Raclette cheese: A semi-hard Swiss cheese designed to melt perfectly.

• Alternatives: Gruyère, Emmental, or even mature cheddar if you want to experiment.

• Melt it in the little pans and pour it over potatoes, bread, or grilled vegetables.

🥔 Vegetables & Sides

• Baby potatoes, boiled until tender – the ultimate raclette partner.

• Mushrooms, peppers, courgettes, and onions – sliced and grilled on the top plate.

• Pickles and gherkins – a tangy contrast to the rich cheese.

🥩 Meats & Seafood

• Thinly sliced cured meats like prosciutto, salami, or ham.

• Fresh cuts of chicken, beef, or lamb cooked directly on the grill.

• Prawns, salmon, or scallops for a lighter twist.

🥖 Breads & Accompaniments

• Crusty baguette slices for soaking up melted cheese.

• Fresh salad to balance the richness.

• Dipping sauces or mustards to add a punch of flavour.

Why People Love Raclette

More than just a meal, raclette is an experience. Guests cook their own food at the table, customise their plates, and enjoy a slow, sociable dinner that can last for hours. It’s perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or even a cosy night in.

Bringing Raclette Home

With modern raclette grills, you don’t need to trek to the Alps to enjoy this tradition. All you need is your favourite ingredients, some good company, and an appetite for fun, interactive dining.

✨ Whether you stick with the classics – cheese, potatoes, and pickles – or get creative with your own flavour combinations, raclette is all about one thing: sharing great food together.