Some evenings fade away, and some are remembered for a long time. Raclette belongs to the second category. This generous dish, born in the Swiss and Savoyard alpine pastures, has crossed the centuries without a wrinkle, because it brings together everything we love: melty cheese, steamed potatoes, generous cured meats, and above all, lots of laughter around the table.
The equipment you need
Before even thinking about ingredients, let’s lay the groundwork. A successful raclette relies on a reliable machine.
- Raclette grill with individual pans (for 6 to 8 people)
- A cooking plate to keep the sides warm
- A cheese knife or a slicer
- Warm plates: heat them in the oven at 60 °C (140 °F) before the meal
Ingredients for 6 people
| Ingredient | Quantity | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Raclette cheese | 1.2 to 1.5 kg (2.6 to 3.3 lb) | 200-250 g (7-9 oz) per person |
| Potatoes | 1.8 kg (4 lb) | Charlotte or Amandine variety |
| Assorted cured meats | 900 g (2 lb) | Ham, bresaola, coppa, rosette |
| Pickles | 400 g (14 oz) | Extra-fine artisanal gherkins |
| Pickled onions | 150 g (5 oz) | Optional |
Step-by-step preparation
- 30 minutes ahead: take the cheese out of the refrigerator, it will melt better at room temperature.
- Cooking the potatoes: wash them, prick them and bake at 200 °C (390 °F) for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Setting up: place the raclette grill in the center of the table and preheat for 10 minutes before you start.
- The melting ritual: each guest places a slice of cheese in their pan under the heating element until it is melted and golden.
- Serving: pour the melted cheese over the potatoes and sides. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours at the table.
Expert tips
Don’t overfill the pans — one or two slices at a time for even melting.
The crust (the “religieuse”) — the golden part at the bottom of the pan is the one connoisseurs fight over.
Warm the plates — put them in the oven at 60 °C (140 °F) for 5 minutes before sitting down.
Frequently asked questions
How much cheese for a raclette for 6 people? Count 200 to 250 g (7 to 9 oz) per person, so 1.2 to 1.5 kg (2.6 to 3.3 lb) for six.
Can you prepare the potatoes ahead of time? Yes, they can be prepared 2 hours ahead and kept warm in an oven at 70 °C (160 °F).
Can you make raclette without a machine? Absolutely — preheat your oven on the grill setting and broil the cheese for 5 to 8 minutes.
