Raclette

Instructions

1. Prepare the potatoes
   Wash the potatoes thoroughly but don't peel them. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and keep warm by covering with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Set up the accompaniments
   While the potatoes are cooking, arrange the cornichons, pickled onions, and charcuterie on a serving platter. Place the Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Sprinkle the chives over the platter for garnish.
3. Prepare the Raclette cheese
   If using a traditional Raclette grill, turn it on to heat up. If using an oven, preheat the broiler. Slice the Raclette cheese into pieces that will fit your melting device.
4. Melt the cheese
   If using a Raclette grill, place slices of cheese in the individual trays and melt until bubbling and just starting to brown at the edges, about 3-5 minutes. If using a broiler, place cheese slices on an oven-safe dish and broil until melted and starting to bubble, about 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
5. Serve immediately
   Scrape the melted cheese directly onto warm potatoes on each person's plate. Season with a little black pepper and paprika if desired. Serve with cornichons, pickled onions, charcuterie, and bread on the side.
6. Continue the process
   Raclette is a social meal. Continue melting cheese in rounds as everyone eats. Make sure to keep the potatoes warm throughout the meal by covering them or keeping them near the heat source.