As the last leaves of autumn fall and the crisp chill of winter fills the air,
there’s a telltale sign in our house: my husband starts pacing around excitedly, proclaiming, “Ah, it’s getting cold—time for raclette season!” Every time he says it, the kids shout in unison, “Yay!” He repeats it so often that it’s crystal clear—winter doesn’t officially start for us until we’ve had raclette. Even when it’s dark and freezing outside, the warmth and deliciousness of raclette is something our entire family eagerly awaits.
My First Raclette
My first taste of raclette was at a restaurant in Tokyo. It was served as a plated dish, with melted cheese poured over potatoes, broccoli, and carrots. Honestly, it didn’t leave much of an impression on me back then. I was far more captivated by the cheese fondue I had at a Swiss friend’s home. Her father—what a revelation!—was a master craftsman who made Emmental cheese. The fondue was as authentic and flavorful as it gets.
But then I moved to Europe, and everything changed.
I discovered raclette in its truest form, and let me tell you—it was love at first bite. 😄 Especially with a dedicated raclette grill, where you melt cheese at your own pace, the joy of gathering around the table is something words can’t quite capture.
History of Raclette
Raclette originated in the Valais region of Switzerland, and its name comes from the French word racler, meaning “to scrape.” In the Middle Ages, farmers would melt cheese over an open fire and scrape it onto bread or potatoes. This hearty dish was perfect for providing sustenance in the harsh alpine climate. By the late 19th century, raclette had spread across Switzerland and into France’s Savoie region. Today, it’s a winter staple enjoyed all over Europe.
How Our Family Enjoys Raclette
Raclette isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience—a celebration of togetherness. For us, it’s a Christmas season essential. With our trusty electric raclette grill, the whole family gathers to enjoy the meal at our own pace.
What makes raclette so special is the endless ways to customize it. Some of us love adding melted cheese to bread and topping it with ham. My younger daughter has her own twist: she finely chops fluffy potatoes, adds a dollop of butter, and smothers it all with gooey melted cheese. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes raclette so magical.
Raclette in Berlin: A Cheese Lover’s Paradise
In Berlin, the arrival of winter means supermarket shelves are stocked with raclette cheese. From classic pre-sliced varieties to aromatic options like truffle, pepper, and herb-infused cheeses, the choices are endless. For those seeking something extra special, the cheese counters in local supermarkets offer an even wider selection of premium raclette cheeses.
On a cold winter night,
raclette isn’t just a meal—it’s a way to bring warmth and joy to the table. May this winter fill your home with the comforting aroma and deliciousness of raclette. Ready to try it yourself? Check out this super-easy recipe Raclette and get started!
