Raclette is an ideal dish for social gatherings where everyone prepares their own portion. The foundation is Raclette cheese and potatoes boiled in their skins.
When buying cheese, choose a special Raclette cheese – it has the ideal melting texture and a pronounced but delicious aroma. Budget for 150-200 g of cheese per person.
For an authentic experience, you will need a Raclette grill with lower pans for the cheese and an upper plate for grilling meats and vegetables.
Thoroughly wash the small potatoes and boil them in their skins in salted water (al dente, to avoid overcooking).
Drain the boiled potatoes and keep them warm (e.g., in a bowl covered with a towel or aluminium foil) throughout the meal. They will be eaten whole or sliced.
Slice the Raclette cheese into pieces that fit neatly into the small raclette pans. (If using a wheel, prepare the cheese holder on the raclette machine).
Arrange all side dishes (cornichons, pickled onions, cured meats, fresh vegetables, sauces/dips) on the table in small bowls so they are easily accessible to everyone.
Turn on the Raclette grill and allow it to preheat for at least 10-15 minutes.
Each person places a slice of cheese on a small pan and slides it under the heating element.
Meanwhile, while the cheese is melting, you can grill thin slices of meat, bacon, or vegetables on the upper plate.
When the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has a golden crust (about 3-5 minutes), remove the pan.
Scrape the melted cheese using a small wooden or plastic scraper onto a plate, where you already have warm potatoes, cornichons, and onions. Season with freshly ground pepper and salt.