Raclette

Can’t imagine ever tiring of fondue!!… however, if you’re looking for a meal that is just as delicious and fun, try Raclette, a magnificent melting cheese, soft & supple, creamy & delicious… definitely worthy of being in the spotlight this week on Moveable Feast’s blog!!  It’s a welcome change at dinner time… especially in the heart of winter when it’s cold outside and you and the kids or a group of friends are all huddled together and hungry!

Raclette is an amazing Alpine cheese made from whole raw or pasteurized cow's milk, collected from cows that have been grazing on the nutrient rich pastures of the French and Swiss Alps.  Raclette comes from the French word “racler” which means “to scrape”.  This ancient cheese dates back to the Middle Ages when shepherds would enjoy a scrumptious and satisfying meal by cutting a large wheel of cheese in half and holding it close to an open fire.  In just minutes after it started to melt an avalanche of luscious bubbling cheese would be scraped onto a dish and quickly consumed.

 

Many restaurants offer this fireside delight during the winter months.  But don’t dismay!  You don’t have to travel all the way to Europe to indulge your senses… nor do you have to worry about building a fire in your home!  A Raclette machine is a type of table-top electric grill that allows you to easily enjoy this treat right at your dinner table or kitchen counter.  Simply place a slice of Raclette on one of the small grill pans and place it under the grill itself.  Try not to drool as the outer layer starts to crinkle and darken, while the ivory colored inner layer starts to bubble.  The rich nutty, sweet and slightly fruity flavor is irresistible.  Yes, the rind is a bit stinky (as most wash-rind cheeses are!), but becomes savory and delicious when grilled.

 

A Raclette party was just the excuse these St. Charles moms were looking for when they recently gathered to enjoy a kid-free evening filled with good company, GREAT food, and lots of fun!  Mandy VanLue called on Moveable Feast to supply her with our AMAZING Raclette cheese, pickled cornichons/gherkins, an assortment of salamis, and a few bottles of fruity reds and crisp whites from our hard to beat wine selection.  All Mandy had to do was boil some small potatoes (a must with Raclette!), prepare a fresh green salad, and voila!... a beautiful table was ready to go.  Mandy, an experienced Raclette hostess, was armed and ready with her own Raclette grill, but for those of you who aren't as well-equipped, Moveable Feast has them available in our retail store.