Enjoy a relaxed dinner with the raclette grill

Especially on cold winter days, raclette is popular with all age groups. Many families bring out their raclette devices on special holidays such as Christmas or New Year's Eve. Together with friends and family members, they enjoy a relaxed time.

The great advantage of a raclette device is that everyone can prepare exactly what they like in their own little pan. When hosting a raclette evening, you can provide delicious ingredients such as sausage, meat, fish, and vegetables. For a traditional experience, these dishes are served with boiled potatoes, cornichons, and of course, raclette cheese.

There are countless possibilities for preparation. Everyone can assemble their pan exactly to their taste. Our raclette devices impress not only with high quality but also with great flexibility.

What is Raclette?

The modern term “raclette” is borrowed from the French word “racler,” which translates to “scrape” or “scrape off.” The name gives a clue to the original preparation of this now very popular dish.

The dish is believed to have been invented by poor herders and monks who lived in the Swiss cantons of Nidwalden and Obwalden during the Middle Ages.

How Did Raclette Develop?

In the Middle Ages, people used open fires to cook food over or beside them. At that time, the dish was known as “Bratchäs.” A fatty wheel of cheese was placed next to the open fire.

The heat from the fire slowly melted the cheese. Once it was soft, there were various ways to eat it: potatoes or bread could be dipped into the cheese and then eaten. Alternatively, the soft cheese could be scraped off and spread on the mentioned foods.

At that time, meat was a luxury that poor monks or herders usually could not afford. This made this delicious and filling way of eating spread further. In addition, the social aspect contributed to raclette’s popularity.

Soon, “Bratchäs” was named after the canton of Valais as Valais Raclette. Over time, it evolved and eventually took the form that is now known and loved not only in Switzerland.

The Raclette Device of Yesterday

“Bratchäs” is now a thing of the past. Around 100 years ago, the first electric raclette device was developed. However, it was a very rudimentary version. A heating coil warmed the cheese on one side. To “scrape” it, it had to be turned over—a rather tedious process. Cleaning was also very time-consuming and not very enjoyable.

Modern Raclette Devices

In the mid-1970s, the first raclette grills hit the market. They had the shape that is still common today. The raclette device had space for small pans, and the top offered the option to fry or grill food.

As with the rudimentary models, heating rods are used to warm the cheese. However, depending on the power of the raclette device, this happens much faster than in the past.

What Types of Raclette Devices Are There?

If you prefer the original version, all you need is an open fire. Much more modern are the raclette devices in our shop.

If you want to enjoy a cozy evening for two, the Cheeseboard Twin or Twinboard Basis are versatile companions. These grills have space for two non-stick steel pans. Additionally, they include a parking deck. The top features a grill plate. Raclette devices like the Cheeseboard V8 Grill are also suitable for larger groups of up to eight people.

This way, not only is eating a lot of fun, but cleaning after use is also easy and quick.

How Can You Make Your Raclette a Success?

The focus is on the social gathering, where everyone can prepare their favorite dish. Whether with or without meat, the ingredients can be chosen as desired. In addition, the preparations for the host are kept to a minimum.

To enjoy a relaxed raclette evening with friends or family, proper preparation is essential. After all, it should be cozy. Take your time to enjoy the evening without constantly having to run to the kitchen.

Cheese is the star of raclette. Other ingredients such as fish, meat, vegetables, or similar complement it perfectly. To avoid the rich cheese feeling heavy in the stomach, traditional Valais raclette is not accompanied by water. A dry white wine pairs wonderfully with the cheese. Alternatively, black tea works well as a non-alcoholic beverage.

Are you in the mood for something sweet? Whether as a main dish or a perfect finish, sweet pans, for example with melted chocolate, are sure to delight not only those with a sweet tooth.

What Do You Need Besides a Raclette Device for a Relaxed Evening?

A high-quality raclette device is, of course, the most important. In addition to the grill, there should also be enough pans and scrapers available. If the raclette device has a grill surface, a little butter or oil prevents the food from sticking.

Check in advance where the raclette device will be placed. If the power outlet is too far away, an extension cord can quickly solve the problem.

Ingredients for Raclette

In classic raclette, cheese takes center stage. Traditionally, all other ingredients are baked together with it in the pan. When choosing the cheese, make sure it melts well. Pre-sliced cheese makes it easier to fill the pans.

Strong-flavored or mild? That’s a matter of personal taste. Some suitable types of cheese include:

• Bagnes
• Goms
• Orsières

Butter cheese or young to medium-aged Gouda is ideal if your guests prefer milder flavors. There are no limits to your creativity when putting together a raclette. Gorgonzola, Tilsiter, or mountain cheese are just a few options to make the meal even more varied.

By the way: The rind of classic Swiss raclette cheese is usually eaten as well. It is free of preservatives and additives.

The Right Amount Matters

In a classic raclette, cheese is the most important ingredient. Therefore, it should not be too scarce. We recommend approximately 200 to 250 grams per person. If meat is offered, about 120 to 150 grams per guest is sufficient. Of course, you can adjust the quantities according to your own preferences.

If additional ingredients and side dishes like bread or potatoes are included, the amount of cheese and meat can be reduced accordingly. For vegetarian variations, feel free to use a bit more vegetables and cheese.

Before the Dinner

Elaborate preparation is not necessary. For a relaxed and stress-free evening, plan about an hour before your guests arrive. During this time, wash and chop all ingredients. Pasta or potatoes should be pre-cooked. Place all ingredients in bowls on the table. If the table is too small, an extra side table provides more space.

Our tip: Before turning on the raclette device, remove any textiles such as cushions or curtains from the room. This prevents grease and cheese odors from settling. After the raclette, a plate with coffee grounds or half an orange with cloves left overnight can help neutralize the raclette smell.

High-Quality and Durable Raclette Devices from A. & J. Stöckli AG

Our goal is to make your daily life easier and more enjoyable with our products. That’s why our range includes practical household helpers, garden tools, and high-quality raclette devices.

Discover our wide selection through a virtual tour of our online shop. Of course, we also offer gift vouchers, allowing the recipient to choose a personal highlight from our product range.

Do you have questions about our services or products? We are happy to assist you. We look forward to answering your questions and providing you with non-binding advice!