Entertaining with a Difference Using a Raclette
Throwing a Dinner Party That is Easy and Unique
May 11, 2009
Using a Raclette to host a dinner party is as easy as fondue but slightly different. Raclette is a type of cheese that is traditionally used for Raclette cooking.
What is a Raclette
A raclette grill sits in the middle of the dinner table and usually caters for eight people. The grill heats numerous small pans in with each dinner guest can ‘cook’ their individual meal. As a last minute finishing touch cheese is melted on top of the meal by placing the pan under the Raclette plate. The Raclette is place in the middle of the table.
Historical Facts
The word name Raclette originates from the French verb ‘racle’, which means to scrape.
The cooking method originated in the French speaking areas of the Swiss Alps. A traditional winter meal in Switzerland it used to be cheese melted on a heated block or paddle, scraped off and served over new boiled potatoes. Pickled onions, gherkins or other condiments are served as an accompaniment. Not only was a way to provide warmth on cold winter nights but also a way to enjoy good conversation whilst everyone participates in the cooking. Now with different type of Raclette grills there are numerous different ways to enjoy a Raclette dinner party.
Ingredients
- The best cheese to use is a Swiss raclette cheese cut into slice or appenzeller or Emmental
- 3-4 small potatoes per person
- Meat of your choice cut into small strips (can be marinated); chicken pieces work very well as does beef
- Fish of your choice (such as salmon or swordfish)
- Vegetables cut into smaller pieces (mushrooms, eggplant or zucchini etc.)
- Eggs (ideal to make individual ommelette)
Preparation
Each person prepares their food as they wish. The meat, fish or vegetables can be roasted on the marble plate then added into the pan and topped of with some melted cheese. Alternatively and omelette can be prepared adding mushrooms, salmon or other ingredients that appeal to the taste buds. The little pan is filled with the egg mixture and placed under the Raclette grill. When the mixture is partially cooked the other optional ingredients are added.
What to drink
A light bodied white wine served will compliment the Raclette dinner party. If a read wine is preferred w chilled Pinot Noir can add a fruity taste to the experience.
Other Ways to Entertain
With different type of Raclette grillers now available this method of cooking can be used in other ways such as for a breakfast party with a difference.
To purchase a Raclette the following web site may be of interest http://www.raclette.com.au/ or http://www.raclette.us/
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