Raclette is a Swiss dish that revolves around melted cheese, and it has become a popular choice for cozy gatherings. This dish is known for its communal style, where everyone can enjoy scraping melted cheese over various sides. But what is traditionally served with raclette? The key to a great raclette experience lies in the sides and drinks that complement the cheese. Let’s dive into the classic accompaniments that make raclette a memorable meal.
The History and Tradition of Raclette
The Origins of Raclette
Raclette cheese has its roots in Switzerland. It started as a meal for Swiss shepherds who would melt cheese over an open flame and scrape it onto bread or potatoes. Over time, raclette grew into a favorite dish around the world, often enjoyed during winter months for its comfort and warmth.
How Raclette is Served
Traditionally, people melt the cheese using a special raclette grill or over an open flame. After melting, they scrape the gooey cheese onto accompaniments like potatoes, bread, and meats. The interactive nature of this dish encourages everyone to gather around, making it perfect for family dinners or casual meals with friends.
The Importance of Side Dishes
While the cheese takes center stage, the side dishes play an important role in balancing the richness. They add variety and contrast, bringing fresh, tangy, and savory flavors to the table. So, what is traditionally served with raclette to enhance the experience? Let’s explore the most common accompaniments.
Traditional Foods Served with Raclette
Boiled Potatoes
Boiled potatoes are the most classic side for raclette. Their soft texture absorbs the melted cheese, creating a satisfying combination. The simplicity of the potatoes allows the cheese to shine and become the focal point of the dish.
Pickled Vegetables
Pickled vegetables, like cornichons (small pickles) or pickled onions, bring a tangy punch to the meal. The acidity of these vegetables cuts through the richness of the cheese, offering a refreshing contrast. Without them, the dish could feel too heavy, so they are an essential part of the experience.
Cured Meats
Cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and ham add a savory element to the meal. These meats provide a salty, satisfying contrast to the smooth, creamy cheese. The combination of cheese and cured meat creates a mouthwatering balance that everyone will love.
Fresh Bread
No raclette meal is complete without fresh bread. Baguettes, sourdough, or rye are the most common choices. The crusty texture of the bread helps to soak up the cheese, and it doesn’t overpower the dish. Bread is a simple but crucial addition to your plate.
Vegetables and Fruits That Pair Well with Raclette
Grilled or Roasted Vegetables
Grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms work wonderfully with raclette. These vegetables bring a savory depth and a bit of smokiness to the dish. Their flavors balance out the richness of the cheese, making the meal more exciting.
Fresh Greens
Adding a light salad with a simple vinaigrette is a great way to cut through the richness of the cheese. Fresh greens like arugula or spinach offer a refreshing contrast, helping to cleanse your palate as you enjoy the meal.
Fruits
Fresh fruits like grapes, apples, and pears add sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the cheese and cured meats. These fruits provide a refreshing bite and enhance the overall flavor profile of the meal.
Seasonal Favorites
Depending on the time of year, you can add seasonal fruits or vegetables. For instance, asparagus in spring or figs in fall bring something special to the table. These seasonal additions can make your raclette experience feel even more unique.
Drinks Traditionally Served with Raclette
White Wine
The best drink to pair with raclette is a crisp, dry white wine. Swiss wines like Fendant or a fresh Sauvignon Blanc are perfect choices. These wines’ light acidity and dryness balance the richness of the cheese, enhancing the overall experience.
Beer
For beer lovers, light lagers or wheat beers are excellent pairings. These beers are crisp and refreshing, and they don’t overwhelm the flavors of the dish. A cold beer is perfect for complementing the warm, gooey cheese.
Tea or Herbal Infusions
If you prefer something non-alcoholic, tea or herbal infusions are excellent options. Light herbal teas like mint or chamomile help to cleanse your palate and provide a soothing end to each bite.
Sparkling Water
Sparkling water is another non-alcoholic choice that works well with raclette. The bubbles help cleanse the palate and reset your taste buds, so each bite of cheese feels fresh. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a lighter drink to accompany the meal.
Tips for Hosting a Traditional Raclette Meal
Raclette Equipment
To serve raclette traditionally, you’ll need a raclette grill or melter. This special equipment helps melt the cheese evenly, so everyone can enjoy their own portion. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy the dish together.
Preparing the Ingredients
Preparing your ingredients ahead of time will make serving much easier. Boil your potatoes, slice your meats, and arrange your vegetables on platters. This makes the meal feel effortless and allows everyone to focus on the fun of melting cheese and customizing their plate.
Serving Style
Raclette is best enjoyed family-style. Set up your table so that guests can choose their sides and melt their cheese on the grill. This communal style of dining creates a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, making it ideal for social gatherings.
Dessert Ideas
After indulging in rich, creamy cheese, a light dessert is the perfect way to end the meal. Sorbet or a fruit tart would be an ideal choice. These desserts cleanse the palate and offer a refreshing finish to the meal.
Conclusion
Raclette is a delightful and indulgent dish, but what makes it truly special are the traditional foods and drinks served with it. From boiled potatoes and pickled vegetables to white wine and fresh bread, these accompaniments create the perfect balance. Now that you know what is traditionally served with raclette, why not host your own raclette night? Gather your loved ones, melt the cheese, and enjoy this communal meal together. Share your favorite raclette sides with us in the comments below!
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