Authentic Raclette Recipe Canton of Valais, Switzerland

The raclette dish is traditionally prepared by heating the raclette cheese either in front of a fire or by a special machine, then scraping off the melted layer onto diners' plates. It's commonly served with boiled potatoes, pickled onions, cornichons (small pickled gherkins), and sometimes dried meats like prosciutto or ham, allowing the melted cheese to be the star of the meal. Nowadays, raclette parties have become popular, where small tabletop grills are used to melt slices of raclette cheese individually. These grills also have a griddle top where guests can cook meats and vegetables to accompany the cheese. This social dining experience emphasizes communal eating and allows guests to customize their plates with various accompaniments to the rich, melted cheese.