Pizza with Raclette cheese
Oven-Baked Raclette: A Delicious Pizza with Melted Cheese
Do you remember the moments spent on the ski slopes, enjoying a warm and comforting meal? Raclette is an iconic dish, often associated with evenings spent with friends and family, where melted cheese takes center stage on our tables. Offering you a unique twist, I suggest you try a raclette cheese pizza - a savory reinterpretation of this classic that combines the pleasure of melted cheese with the crispy texture of pizza dough.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Rising time: 2-3 hours
- Baking time: 20-30 minutes
- Total time: approximately 3-4 hours
- Servings: 4
The History of Raclette
Raclette is not just a cheese; it’s a culinary experience. The name comes from the French verb “racler,” which means “to scrape,” referring to the traditional method of melting cheese over an open fire or in a special appliance. This semi-hard cheese, with a buttery flavor and firm texture, has become a symbol of mountain cuisine, enjoyed alongside potatoes, pickles, and meats. Today, we bring you a modern version that blends tradition with innovation, making it perfect for a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients
*For the dough:*
- 250 g flour
- 1 small packet of dry yeast (about 7 g)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 150 ml warm water
*For the toppings:*
- 8 slices of raclette cheese
- 4 slices of Savoie ham (or any preferred type of ham)
- 3 medium potatoes
- 125 g diced bacon
- 2 medium onions
- 1 clove of garlic
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- Dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step for a Perfect Raclette Cheese Pizza
1. Preparing the yeast
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of flour, the dry yeast, and 50 ml of warm water. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is the key to a fluffy dough.
2. Preparing the dough
Once the yeast mixture is ready, in a large bowl, combine the remaining flour and salt. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the activated yeast. Gradually add the rest of the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Then, knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
3. Rising the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until it doubles in size. You can check if the dough is ready by gently pressing your finger into it – it should slowly spring back.
4. Preparing the ingredients
While the dough is rising, prepare the other ingredients. Boil the whole potatoes in salted water until they are tender but not falling apart. Once cooled, peel and slice them thinly.
In a skillet, fry the bacon without adding oil to preserve its flavor. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic clove. Sauté the ingredients until golden and fragrant, then add the sour cream, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Assembling the pizza
Preheat the oven to 200°C. On a floured work surface, roll out the dough into a round shape, about 1 cm thick. Transfer the dough to a pizza pan or baking stone.
Spread the bacon and onion mixture over the surface of the dough, followed by the slices of ham and potatoes. Make sure to distribute the ingredients evenly. Finally, place the slices of raclette cheese on top and sprinkle with dried thyme.
6. Baking
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the crust is crispy.
7. Serving
Once the pizza is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut into slices and serve warm, alongside a fresh green salad for a delicious contrast.
Practical Tips
- If you don’t have raclette cheese, you can use mozzarella or other cheeses that melt well, such as gouda or emmental.
- Enhance the pizza with vegetables, such as sautéed peppers or mushrooms, for added flavor and nutrients.
- You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for a more intense flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour for the dough?
Yes, but make sure to add a bit more water, as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.
2. How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian version?
Omit the bacon and add more vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach.
3. What drinks pair well with this pizza?
A light beer or a dry white wine are excellent choices to accompany this rich pizza.
Nutritional Benefits
Raclette cheese pizza is a good source of protein and calcium, thanks to the cheese and bacon. The potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, giving you energy throughout the day. Adding vegetables improves fiber and vitamin intake.
Personal Note
This raclette cheese pizza is not just a meal; it’s an experience of bringing loved ones together around the table to savor each slice. I encourage you to personalize your recipe with your favorite ingredients and create unforgettable memories around a warm and flavorful meal. Enjoy!
Ingredients: Dough: 250 g flour, 1 small packet of dry yeast, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, 150 ml of warm water. Other ingredients: 8 slices of raclette cheese, 4 slices of Savoie ham, 3 potatoes, 125 g diced bacon, 2 onions, 1 clove of garlic, 3 tablespoons of sour cream, dried thyme, salt, pepper.
