Raclette and Fondue, the Stars of Winter

When winter sets in and the evenings stretch long, nothing brings people together like a good meal to share. The slowly melting raclette, the cheese fondue simmering at the center of the table… these comforting classics take on a whole new dimension when prepared with Quebec cheeses.

After exploring the delicious local cheeses in a previous article, it’s now time to enjoy them in a different way. Whether it’s a friendly raclette or a hearty fondue, here’s how to turn your evenings into truly gourmet feasts, 100% local.

What Makes a Good Raclette?

A good raclette is, above all, a shared moment around cheese that melts to perfection, slowly but surely. It’s not a meal for those in a hurry: it’s the perfect opportunity to take a break and savor the creamy local treasures in all their richness. The principle is simple: melt the cheese, then pour it generously over hot potatoes before adding your choice of sides. Charcuterie, grilled vegetables, pickles, marinated onions, or crusty bread complete the plate according to everyone’s taste.

@Fromagerie La Station

Wheel Raclette vs. Sliced Raclette

Wheel raclette is the most traditional version. The surface of a half-wheel of cheese is slowly heated, then the melted part is scraped directly onto the plate. The result is rich, slightly crispy on top, and particularly flavorful. It’s the ideal choice for an authentic and convivial experience.

Sliced raclette, more accessible, is perfect for electric tabletop grills. This “individual portions” approach allows each guest to melt their own slice in a small personal pan while easily joining in the conversation around the table. This method is practical, social, and lets you vary the flavors according to everyone’s preferences. All that’s left is to get creative : it’s the perfect time to imagine the best gourmet pairings.

In both cases, the key to a great raclette lies in the quality of the cheese: a melty texture with a balanced flavor, neither too mild nor too strong, that wraps each bite in warmth and taste.

Which Quebec Cheeses Should You Choose for Raclette?

It’s a cliché, but it’s true: a memorable raclette starts with choosing the right cheese. Fortunately, Quebec is full of semi-firm and firm cheeses that are perfect for this delicious ritual.

Here’s a selection of local cheeses that melt to perfection, stretch just right, and are sure to make your evening around the table sizzle with flavor.

Cheese Fondue: A Classic Reimagined

Cheese fondue turns a meal into a true shared experience. Place the fondue pot in the center of the table, spear a piece of crusty bread, a potato, a bundle of broccoli, a floret of cauliflower, or slices of apple or pear, and let the magic happen. And of course, fine charcuterie, the perfect companions to fondue, add even more variety to every bite.

The Cheese Blend

The secret to a balanced fondue lies in the mix. Ideally, combine at least two cheeses: one firm or semi-firm for structure, and a softer cheese for texture. This balance creates a fondue that is both flavorful and smooth. Naturally, many cheesemongers also offer ready-to-use fondue blends, perfect for exploring different combinations effortlessly.

@Fromagerie l’Ancêtre

Tips for the Perfect Texture

A successful fondue should be smooth and nicely coat your dipping items. Here are some practical tips:

• Mix the cheeses with a dry white wine, light beer, dry cider, or even apple juice for a non-alcoholic version to create a smooth texture.
• Gently heat the chosen liquid before adding the cheese.
• Gradually add the cheese while stirring constantly. Ideally, grate the cheese rather than cutting it into cubes to ensure a more even melt.
• Maintain moderate heat: too high, and the fat may separate; too low, and the mixture will thicken excessively.
• If the fondue is too thick, add a bit of hot liquid. If it’s too thin, a touch of starch dissolved in a little liquid can help stabilize it.⁽²⁾

Focus on Local Cheeses

Here are some cheese fondue ideas that are sure to warm the atmosphere and delight the taste buds. Each combination highlights local cheeses, resulting in a creamy, flavorful experience perfect for sharing a delicious moment with friends or family.

Whether you choose raclette or fondue, the most important thing to remember is that Quebec is full of dairy treasures waiting to be explored. Let yourself be surprised by new varieties, and don’t hesitate to visit a local cheesemonger to discover even more options.

In fact, some cheesemongers, such as Fromagerie Au Gré des Champs and Fromagerie Le Mouton Blanc, offer the opportunity to create a custom fondue tailored to your tastes or needs.

Sources :
⁽¹⁾Fromages d’ici, En cuisine, Passion : fondue aux fromages d’ici
⁽²⁾Goûtez le Québec, La tournée Découvertes Gourmandes, Les Fromages à fondue !