Raclette cheese is more than just a type of cheese; it’s a culinary experience that brings people together over shared meals and hearty flavours. Originating from the Swiss and French Alps, Raclette is known for its creamy texture and rich, nutty flavour, which makes it perfect for melting. Whether you’re a seasoned cheese connoisseur or new to the world of artisanal cheeses, Raclette is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dining experience.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history and tradition behind Raclette, explore its unique flavour profile and culinary uses, and offer tips on how to best enjoy this delightful cheese. We’ll also look at the cultural significance of Raclette and provide a step-by-step guide to preparing a traditional Raclette meal at home.
So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover why Raclette cheese is the ultimate comfort food.
The origins of Raclette
Raclette cheese dates back several centuries, with its roots deeply embedded in the pastoral culture of the Swiss and French Alps. The name “Raclette” comes from the French word “racler“, which means “to scrape.” This refers to the traditional method of melting the cheese and scraping it onto potatoes, pickles, and bread.
The practice is believed to have originated among Alpine shepherds, who would melt the cheese by the fire and enjoy it as a simple yet satisfying meal.
In Switzerland, Raclette is more than just a type of cheese; it’s a national dish. It’s especially popular in the canton of Valais, where it’s considered a cultural heritage. The cheese is traditionally made from cow’s milk and has a semi-hard texture with a slightly creamy, yellow interior. In France, Raclette has also become a beloved part of the country’s culinary identity, particularly in the Savoie region.
The making of Raclette cheese
Raclette is a semi-hard cheese made from raw or pasteurized cow’s milk. The process of making Raclette cheese involves several steps, each contributing to its distinctive flavour and texture.
1. Milk Collection and Preparation: Fresh cow’s milk is collected, either raw or pasteurized, depending on the desired end product. The milk is then heated to a specific temperature to prepare it for the addition of bacterial cultures.
2. Curdling: A starter culture and rennet are added to the milk, causing it to curdle. The curd is then cut into small pieces to release the whey.
3. Cooking and Draining: The curds are heated and stirred, helping to expel more whey. Once the desired consistency is achieved, the curds are placed into molds and pressed to remove any remaining whey.
4. Salting: Afterwards, the cheese is salted either by dry salting or by immersion in a brine solution. This step is crucial for flavour development and helps in the formation of the cheese rind.
5. Ageing: Raclette cheese is aged for a minimum of three months but can be aged for up to a year. During this time, the cheese develops its characteristic flavour and texture. The cheese wheels are turned and brushed regularly to ensure even maturation.
The result is a cheese with a firm but pliable texture, a creamy mouthfeel, and a distinctive aroma that becomes more pronounced as the cheese ages.
The flavour profile of Raclette
Raclette cheese has a unique flavour profile that sets it apart from other cheeses. Its taste is buttery, nutty, and slightly tangy, with a hint of sweetness. While its aroma can be pungent, especially in aged varieties, the flavour remains smooth and well-balanced.
When melted, Raclette becomes even more complex, with a rich, creamy texture that coats the palate. The nutty and buttery notes become more pronounced, making it the perfect companion for starchy and savoury foods like potatoes, bread, and cured meats.
The tradition of Raclette: more than just a meal
Without a doubt, Raclette is not just a cheese but a social event and a tradition that has been passed down through generations. In Switzerland and parts of France, a Raclette meal is often a communal experience shared with family and friends around a table.
The cheese is melted using a special Raclette grill or a traditional open fire, and then it is scraped onto a variety of accompaniments.
The traditional Raclette setup
A traditional Raclette meal includes the following components:
1. Raclette Cheese: The star of the show, typically served in half or quarter wheels for easy melting.
2. Potatoes: Boiled or roasted new potatoes are the classic accompaniment. Their mild flavour and creamy texture make them the perfect base for melted Raclette.
3. Pickles: Cornichons (small pickled cucumbers) and pickled onions add a tangy contrast to the rich, creamy cheese.
4. Cured Meats: Slices of prosciutto, salami, or smoked ham add a savoury element to the meal.
5. Bread: Crusty bread, such as baguette or sourdough, is ideal for dipping into the melted cheese.
6. Vegetables: Some variations include steamed or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli.
The beauty of a Raclette meal is its simplicity and versatility. Guests can customize their plates, adding as much or as little of each ingredient as they like.
Preparing a Raclette meal at home
Hosting a Raclette party at home is easier than you might think. With the right equipment and ingredients, you can recreate this Alpine tradition in your own dining room.
Equipment you’ll need
1. Raclette Grill or Machine: This is essential for melting the cheese. Modern Raclette grills come with individual pans, allowing each guest to melt their own cheese. Some grills even have a griddle on top for cooking vegetables and meats.
2. Raclette Scraper: A small, flat spatula is used to scrape the melted cheese onto your plate.
3. Cheese Knife: For cutting the cheese into manageable slices.
Step-by-step preparation
1. Select Your Cheese: Choose high-quality Raclette cheese from a trusted supplier. Plan for about 200 grams of cheese per person.
2. Prepare the Accompaniments: Boil or roast the potatoes and arrange them in a serving dish. Prepare the pickles, cured meats, and bread. If using vegetables, steam or roast them until tender.
3. Set Up the Grill: Preheat the Raclette grill according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Place the cheese slices in the individual pans.
4. Start Melting: Each guest places their pan under the grill to melt their cheese. Once melted, use the scraper to pour the cheese over the potatoes and other accompaniments.
5. Enjoy: Serve with a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a traditional Swiss Fendant, to balance the richness of the cheese.
The health benefits of Raclette
While Raclette is undoubtedly a rich and indulgent meal, it also offers some nutritional benefits. It’s a good source of protein and calcium, both of which are essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles. Furthermore, Raclette also contains vitamins A and B12, which support eye health and red blood cell formation, respectively.
That said, Raclette contains moderately high amounts of saturated fats and sodium. Hence, you should enjoy it in moderation. Pairing it with plenty of vegetables and whole grains can help balance out the meal.
You can read my in-depth assessment of the nutritional value of Raclette here.
Choosing the right Raclette cheese
Not all Raclette cheese is the same. When choosing Raclette, look for high-quality, artisanal options whenever possible. Here are a few tips for selecting the best Raclette cheese:
1. Check the Origin: Authentic Raclette cheese from Switzerland or France will often have a AOP label, indicating it comes from a specific region following traditional methods.
2. Consider the Age: Younger Raclette cheese has a milder flavour, while aged Raclette can be more pungent and complex. Choose based on your personal preference.
3. Look for Raw Milk Options: If you’re a fan of robust flavours, opt for Raclette made from raw milk. It tends to have a more pronounced taste and a richer texture.
Where to buy Raclette cheese
Nowadays, you can find Raclette in most specialty cheese shops and some well-stocked supermarkets. You can also order it online from reputable retailers. When purchasing, make sure the cheese is well-packaged and stored at the correct temperature to ensure freshness.
How to store your Raclette cheese
Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the quality of Raclette cheese. Here are a few tips:
- Refrigerate: Store Raclette cheese in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2-4°C (35-39°F).
- Wrap It Right: Wrap the cheese in wax paper or parchment paper, then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container. This prevents the cheese from drying out while allowing it to breathe.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing Raclette cheese can alter its texture and flavour. If you have leftover cheese, use it within a week or two for the best taste.
Want to learn more about cheese storage? I’ve got a comprehensive blog post here with my best tips on how to best store your cheese.
Conclusion
Raclette cheese is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a cultural experience that brings people together. Its rich, creamy texture and versatile flavour make it the perfect choice for a cozy, communal dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a traditional Raclette party or experimenting with new variations, this Alpine delight is sure to impress.
From its humble origins in the Swiss and French Alps to its current status as a beloved dish around the world, Raclette cheese has proven itself to be the ultimate comfort food. So the next time you’re looking for a meal that’s both satisfying and social, consider hosting a Raclette night. Your friends and family will thank you!
Jonah is a a hipster, eco-warrior and slow food afficionado. Coming from a scientific background, Jonah has a particular interest in cheese science. And yes, he loves a good cheese pun!
