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    Published on : 08/10/2026

    Traditional Raclette: The Perfect Dish for a Perfect Evening

    Traditional raclette is one of many Savoyard specialties, such as fondue or tartiflette . During your winter vacation in the Alps, you can’t miss this classic dish, which is served in most restaurants in ski resorts or prepared in apartments or chalets equipped with a raclette machine. Raclette time is a warm and friendly occasion that vacationers really enjoy.

    Savoyard raclette consists simply of melted cheese served with cold cuts and boiled potatoes. It involves melting cheese on a raclette machine and scraping the melted cheese directly onto the sides.

    In this article, discover an easy-to-prepare raclette recipe, expert tips, and ideas for hosting an unforgettable raclette party.

    The Origins of Raclette: An Alpine Tradition

    A dish dating back to the Middle Ages and originating in the mountainous regions between Switzerland and Savoie, shepherds would melt cheese over a wood fire before scraping it onto bread or potatoes. The term “raclette” comes from the simple act of scraping the melted cheese,

    Today, raclette has become a staple of Savoyard cuisine and winter meals.

    Crédit photo de Luna Wangsur Unsplash

    Ingredients for a Perfect Raclette (Serves 4)

    • 1 kg of raclette cheese
    • 2 kg of potatoes specifically for raclette
    • 800 g of assorted cold cuts
    • Gherkins and small onions

    Step-by-Step Raclette Preparation

    Prep time: about 20 min / Cook time: 30 min / Difficulty: none

    1. Boil the potatoes in their skins for about 30 minutes.
    2. Slice the cheese thinly so it melts evenly (or use pre-sliced cheese)
    3. Arrange the cold cuts, pickles, and the pre-prepared salad on separate plates.
    4. Use a raclette machine or a traditional half-wheel if using a whole wheel of cheese. The cheese is ready when it is fully melted and lightly browned.
    5. Scrape the cheese onto the potatoes and enjoy immediately.

    Tips for an (Almost) Perfect Raclette

    There’s no single perfect recipe for traditional raclette—everyone has their own tips and tricks, tailored to their guests. But here are a few suggestions:

    • Allow about 200 to 250 g of cheese per person.
    • ✔️Don’t hesitate to mix up the cheeses for a little extra flavor: plain, smoked, pepper, or herb-flavored.
    • Choose firm-fleshed potatoes.
    • ✔️Get creative with the sides: grilled vegetables or mushrooms, some grated carrots, beets for those who want something a little “lighter,” or (homemade) fries for the real foodies!

     

    Raclette Variations

    Today, to satisfy every food lover, raclette comes in different versions depending on the ingredients used:

    • The vegetarian version: grilled vegetables, tofu, vegetarian deli meats
    • The halal version: 100% halal deli meats.
    • The gourmet version: truffles, mushrooms.
    • The spicy version: chili-infused cheese.
    • The seafood version: smoked salmon, shrimp.

    When it comes to raclette, anything goes if you’re looking for a bit of originality. But the traditional raclette is the most popular choice when enjoying a ski vacation in the Alps.

    Crédit photo Magnific

    Why is raclette so popular?

    Raclette is THE quintessential traditional mountain dish, and generally everyone enjoys it—young and old alike—thanks to its simplicity in preparation. It’s a dish that brings people together and makes for a warm, friendly evening. During winter vacations, after a great day of skiing, there’s nothing better than getting into the spirit of things around a delicious meal.

    The recipe for traditional raclette is simple, but its success depends on the quality of the ingredients and the joy of sharing. Whether you’re a fan of Savoyard cuisine or just looking for a hearty meal, raclette is always a safe bet.

    The Les Edelweiss residence in Champagny-en-Vanoise  is the ideal place to gather with family or a group of friends to host the perfect mountain-style evening!