Introduction:
Raclette, a Swiss-inspired dish featuring melted cheese served with potatoes, pickles, and cured meats, is perfect for the Arteflame grill. Using the flat cooktop, you can achieve perfectly melted cheese with a hint of smoky flavor. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy a communal meal.
Ingredients
- 1 wheel or wedge of raclette cheese (or any good melting cheese like Gruyère or Fontina)
- 1 pound small potatoes (baby red or fingerling)
- 1/2 cup pickled gherkins or cornichons
- 1/2 cup pearl onions (pickled or fresh)
- 1/2 pound cured meats (prosciutto, salami, or ham)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Crusty bread slices (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
- Light the Arteflame grill by placing vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.
- Place the potatoes on the outer, cooler zone of the flat cooktop to roast gently while the grill heats.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese and Toppings
- Cut the raclette cheese into thick slices or wedges.
- Arrange the cured meats, pickles, onions, and bread on a serving platter.
- Once the potatoes are tender and golden (about 20 minutes), remove them from the grill and keep warm.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
- Place the cheese slices on the flat cooktop, closer to the center where the heat is higher.
- Allow the cheese to melt, bubbling slightly, and develop a light golden crust on the edges. Use a spatula to scrape and fold the melted cheese as it softens.
Step 4: Serve
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, scrape it directly over the roasted potatoes, cured meats, or bread.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately.
Tips
- Keep It Hot: Melt the cheese in small batches to keep it warm and gooey for serving.
- Charred Potatoes: Move the roasted potatoes closer to the heat for a slight char before serving.
- Bread Option: Toast bread slices on the flat cooktop for a crunchy accompaniment.
Variations
- Vegetarian Raclette: Replace cured meats with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
- Herb-Infused Cheese: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the cheese as it melts for added flavor.
- Spicy Raclette: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or serve with spicy pickled jalapeños.
- Seafood Raclette: Pair melted raclette with grilled shrimp or smoked salmon for a seafood twist.
- Sweet Raclette: Serve melted cheese with roasted pears, apples, or figs for a sweet-savory combination.
Pairings
- Wine: Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling.
- Beer: Pair with a light lager or wheat beer to complement the cheese’s richness.
- Salad: Serve with a fresh arugula or mixed greens salad to balance the meal.
Conclusion
Arteflame raclette cooked on the flat cooktop combines the traditional joy of melted cheese with the smoky magic of outdoor grilling. It’s a communal dish that’s perfect for entertaining or simply savoring a hearty, cheesy meal.
