This year, host your holiday brunch differently, thanks to the raclette. This combines breakfast essentials with griddle and pan cooking, perfect for making the most of time spent together at the table. Benefits, proper planning and foods to have on hand; here’s everything you need to know on entertaining with this cooking set.
The Benefits of a Raclette Brunch
Dishes That Cook on the Griddle
Raclette breakfasts are popular because so many morning foods (bacon, pancakes, French toast, etc.) can be cooked on the griddle or in small pans. This allows everyone to personalize their meal depending on their preferences.
Self-Serve Meal
Each person is in charge of grilling and assembling their own meal, which means the host doesn’t have to manage cooking and serving hot dishes to everyone.
Planning
Being able to eat at the same time as your guests is one of the many pros of a raclette brunch. But even though this type of meal means spending less time in the kitchen, a bit of prep work is still required. Here are a few things you need to do before sitting down.
Pre-Cook Certain Ingredients
Meats, such as breakfast sausage and bacon, take some time to cook on the griddle and release fat. To speed up cooking and make room for other foods, opt for store-bought versions that are pre-cooked, or be sure to pre-cook your meats earlier in the morning or the night before. The same goes for firm vegetables, starting with potatoes (a raclette must-have!), as well as broccoli, asparagus and root vegetables.
Prepare Fruits and Vegetables Ahead of Time
Save time by chopping pre-cooked vegetables like potatoes and asparagus, which leaves room for you to cook those that aren’t pre-cooked, like mushrooms, onions and peppers. Be sure to do the same with any fruits you are serving on the side.
Prepare Mixes in Advance
The night before or the morning of, combine your pancake, crepe and French toast mixes, as well as that of your omelettes, which consists of beaten eggs. At the table, make serving a breeze by serving the mixes in pitchers so that everyone can pour them directly onto the griddle or into their pan.
Choose the Right Cheeses
Cheese is the main star of a raclette, even at breakfast. Choices are vast and there’s something to suit all tastes. Plan for 150 g to 200 g of cheese per person during your raclette brunch. Your local Marché Tradition store offers a wide selection to help you plan the perfect brunch.
Something Sweet for a Raclette Breakfast
Do you prefer something sweet at breakfast? Here are a few fillings and toppings for your pancakes and waffles:
- marshmallows
- chocolate chips or a chocolate sauce
- maple syrup
- crème fraîche
- pastry cream
Breakfast Sausage Patties
On the list of recipes you can make ahead of time, these delicious homemade patties are easy to make and perfect for a raclette. Make them by combining ground pork with soda crackers and spices, and then let them rest in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours for maximum flavour.
Want even more inspiration for planning a New Year’s Day brunch? Don’t miss our article filled with fun ideas.
