As the days grow shorter and the nights colder, there’s no better way to warm up than by gathering friends and family for a classic French raclette evening. In France, raclette is more than just a meal—it’s an experience of togetherness, comfort, and indulgence. And the best part? You don’t have to be in the French Alps to enjoy it! Here’s how you can organise a perfect raclette night right here in the UK.
What is Raclette?
Raclette is both the name of the meal and the cheese at the centre of it. Originating from the mountainous regions of France and Switzerland, raclette involves melting a special type of semi-hard cheese, traditionally over an open fire, and serving it over boiled potatoes, alongside cured meats, pickles, and sometimes vegetables. The result? A gooey, savoury, and utterly delicious feast.
What You’ll Need
• Raclette Cheese: The star of the show! You can find raclette cheese in many specialty shops across the UK or order it online. If you’re in a pinch, other melting cheeses like Gruyère or Comté can work as substitutes, but nothing quite matches the creamy, nutty flavour of real raclette.
• A Raclette Grill: To melt the cheese at the table, you’ll need a raclette grill. These electric grills, designed for communal dining, come with small pans for melting individual portions of cheese and a hot surface for grilling meats and vegetables.
• Boiled Potatoes: New potatoes or waxy varieties like Charlotte work best, as they hold their shape under the melted cheese.
• Cured Meats: No raclette night is complete without an assortment of charcuterie. Include thinly sliced meats like prosciutto, saucisson, or even a classic French jambon cru.
• Pickles and Sides: Cornichons (small French pickles), onions, and a selection of mustards are essential accompaniments that cut through the richness of the cheese and meat.
Setting the Mood
Part of what makes a raclette evening so special is the atmosphere. Keep things cosy and informal. Think candlelight, warm blankets, and a rustic table setting with wooden boards and stoneware. After all, raclette is meant to be shared leisurely over hours of good conversation and laughter.
Wine Pairing
No French meal would be complete without a great wine pairing! A crisp, dry white wine such as a Savoie or a Pinot Blanc is the traditional accompaniment to raclette, as it helps to cut through the richness of the cheese. However, light red wines like a Beaujolais can also work well.
How to Serve
The beauty of raclette is that it’s interactive. Place all the ingredients—cheese, meats, potatoes, and sides—on the table so that everyone can serve themselves. Guests melt their own cheese in the small raclette pans and pour it over their choice of potatoes and meats, creating a personalised plate with each serving.
Why It’s Perfect for Winter
Raclette is the perfect winter meal because it’s hearty, warming, and designed for sharing. It’s a dish that brings people together, making it ideal for the festive season or any cold winter’s night. It’s not just about eating—it’s about enjoying each other’s company and savouring a meal slowly, with love and laughter.
So, whether you’re hosting friends, family, or both, a traditional French raclette night is sure to be a hit. Not only will it warm you up, but it will also offer a taste of France right here in the UK, bringing a little Alpine magic to your table.
