National Dish Switzerland: Raclette (Recipe)
In this article
Gather friends around the table and discover Raclette, one of Switzerland’s most sociable dishes! At its heart is gloriously melted cheese draped over warm potatoes and colourful vegetables — a feast for both the palate and the eye. Every round brings fresh flavours and textures to the table, making it the perfect centrepiece for a relaxed, convivial evening. Bring a taste of the Swiss Alps straight into your own dining room.
About Raclette
Raclette has its origins in the Swiss canton of Valais and quickly grew into a favourite well beyond the country’s borders. Traditionally the cheese is melted directly by the fire or under a dedicated raclette grill, then scraped over the plate. The combination of molten cheese, fresh potatoes and an array of sides is a treat for the senses as much as for the appetite. Each round of raclette reveals new tastes and textures, inviting you to explore the rich variety of Swiss cuisine.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200–300g raclette cheese
- 4–6 small potatoes
- 200g mixed vegetables (e.g. peppers, courgette, mushrooms)
- 1–2 tablespoons vinegar or oil for the sides
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
To conjure up the perfect raclette, it is essential to choose high-quality ingredients. The cheese should be fresh and of good quality, as it is the star of the dish. Buying directly from a cheesemonger or a specialist shop often gives you the best selection. Fresh vegetables and first-rate potatoes are just as important for a truly successful result, so the same care that goes into a hearty Älpler Rösti is well worth taking here.
Preparing the dish
Before the raclette is assembled, the potatoes should be washed thoroughly and, if you like, part-cooked in advance. The vegetables can be sliced or cut into pieces according to preference. When it comes to choosing your vegetables there are no limits to creativity — popular options include courgette, broccoli and peppers. Good preparation ensures that everyone can build their own individual raclette exactly to their liking.
Step-by-step instructions
- Boil the potatoes in a pan of salted water until soft.
- Cut your chosen vegetables into pieces and lightly sauté them in a pan, or serve them raw.
- Slice the raclette cheese into thin pieces.
- Arrange the ingredients on a raclette grill and lay the cheese on top.
- Let the cheese melt, then pour it over the potatoes and vegetables.
- Season with salt, pepper and a little vinegar or oil, then enjoy together.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Raclette is easily adapted to different dietary needs. For a gluten-free version no special adjustments are necessary, as the main ingredients are naturally free from gluten. For a lactose-free option, use lactose-free cheese, which is now widely available in many shops. This means that people with intolerances can also enjoy this delicious dish without a second thought.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Raclette can be adapted for vegans too, simply by using plant-based cheeses such as nut-based varieties. Vegetables and potatoes remain the leading players in the dish and offer a wonderful combination of flavours. Other alternatives such as grilled aubergine or tofu can add an interesting note as well. The possibilities are endless and invite you to get creative in the kitchen!
More tips and tricks
To perfect the raclette experience, take care not to pile on too many ingredients at once. This ensures that everything cooks through evenly. A creative mix of different cheeses can also bring welcome variety to the table. It is well worth offering a selection of dips and sauces on the side, too, to enrich the range of flavours on offer.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The beauty of raclette lies in the sheer variety it offers. Everyone can tailor their plate to personal preference. Whether it is extra meat for the carnivores — much like the cured cuts in a Walliser Trockenfleischplatte — or a pinch more spice for added zing, anything goes! Experiment with new ingredients to reinterpret the dish again and again.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have every ingredient to hand, there are plenty of alternatives. Waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold, for example, can be swapped for sweet potatoes, lending the dish a sweeter note. The cheese can vary too; instead of raclette, try a fromage de chèvre or a spiced variety for a distinctive twist. Remember that the combination of ingredients is what makes all the difference — the same principle that guides a good Käsefondue.
Drink pairing ideas
A good white wine goes beautifully with a sociable raclette evening. A fruity Chasselas or a cool Riesling complements the flavour of the cheese perfectly. Non-alcoholic options such as sparkling mineral water or fresh apple juice can also be a delicious choice. Aim for refreshing drinks that help balance the rich, hearty aromas of the raclette.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation can lift the entire raclette experience. Use colourful plates to arrange the various vegetables and sides in an appealing way. Small bowls for dips and seasonings add to the appeal as well. A beautifully laid table creates an inviting atmosphere that turns the shared meal into something truly special.
A bit of history
The story of raclette stretches back to the 13th century, when it was prepared by the herdsmen of the Alpine regions. Originally conceived as a simple, nourishing meal, raclette developed into a much-loved feast across Switzerland. The tradition of “racler” — scraping the melted cheese — remains alive to this day and shows just how deeply the Swiss treasure their gastronomic roots. This long-standing custom makes raclette a cultural heritage that still delights countless people, much like the classic Fondue Moitié Moitié.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Raclette
Raclette is not only a tasty dish but also a tradition that brings people together and spreads good cheer. The use of high-quality cheese, fresh ingredients and the freedom to shape the meal to individual tastes make raclette an ideal choice for any occasion. With creative sides and well-matched drinks, every raclette meal becomes an unforgettable experience. Let this delicious dish inspire you and savour the warm, welcoming atmosphere it creates!
