Raclette

When I serve raclette it is not a set recipe. Every time I have different cheeses and toppings but the following list will give you some ideas of what to serve. Tell people to pour cheese on whatever they want and to let it get as crispy as they like.

Components

• Cheeses: I recommend a selection of different hard cheeses. I like a gruyere, gouda, goat, and cheddar but most hard cheeses will work. There is raclette cheese but I prefer other more flavorful cheeses. Slice them into thin pieces that easily fit in the raclette grill pans. Lay them out on a tray with labels so people know what they are adding to their raclette.

• Potatoes: Potatoes are a crucial component to a raclette table. Yukon potatoes are my favorites but any will do. I cut them in half and boil them till they are fork tender and toss them in olive oil. Then you can add them to the top of the raclette griddle to get crispy during the meal.

• Veggies: I recommend a selection of vegetables to grill on top. I like broccolini, green onions, bell peppers, radicchio, shishito peppers, asparagus, and serrano peppers. I cut them into small enough pieces to fit on the top of the griddle and plate them.

• Caramelized onions: I use this recipe to make caramelized onions for my raclette. I serve them on the side in a small bowl.

• Baguette: I slice lots of baguette slices for people to put toppings and cheese on. I recommend about 1/2 a baguette per person at the dinner. I have them in a bowl for people to pass around.

• Side Salad: I recommend serving a simple side salad. I will often do something like an arugula salad with nuts and a lemon dressing. Basically this is a way to add greens to peoples plates and something light after all the cheese.

• Olive Tapenade: I love having an olive tapenade to spread over bread with my raclette. You can make your own or purchase it from the store. Either way it is perfect served in a small side bowl.

• Cornichon: Cornichon are the perfect sour to bring to a cheesy meal. I cut them into small pieces so they can easily be added to baguette slices. I serve them in a small bowl with a spoon.

• Jams: I recommend having a jam component to your raclette. It adds something sweet and bright. I love a spicy jam or a fun berry jam.

• Fruits: I think pears and apples go great with melty cheese. I serve them sliced in a bowl and recommend it as a final round of raclette.