A Taste of Switzerland

Greer Ransom
Oct 2
2 min read

🧀 Cheese-Based Dishes

Fondue

This is popular in winter and a classic social dish with melted cheese, typically Gruyère and Emmental, served in a communal pot. Diners dip bread cubes into the cheese using long forks. Some people even add a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) for traditional flavor.

Raclette

Made for get-togethers and social festivals, this Semi-hard cheese is melted and scraped over boiled potatoes, pickles, and cured meats.

Älplermagronen (Alpine Macaroni)

Considered a comfort dish among farmers and those who have come back from a long day of hiking. It’s a Swiss-style macaroni with cream, potatoes, onions, and cheese, often served with stewed apples.

Cheeses by Region

Gruyère (Canton of Fribourg): Famous for Gruyère cheese, essential in fondue.

Emmental (Canton of Bern): Known for Emmental cheese, another fondue favorite.

Appenzell (Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden): Produces Appenzeller cheese, often used in fondue.

Vaud (Canton of Vaud): Home to Malakoff, a deep-fried cheese ball.

Valais (Canton of Valais): Produces Raclette cheese and the savory Cholera pastry.

🥩 Meat Dishes

1. Zürcher Geschnetzeltes

This is a swiss-german dish mainly out of Zurich and considered for a hearty lunch. It consists of thinly sliced veal cooked in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce, usually served with Rösti (Swiss-style grated and fried potatoes).

2. Saucisson Vaudois

Smoked sausage from the Vaud region, often served with potatoes or lentils and is best enjoyed grilled or gently simmered.

🥔 Potato Dishes

Rösti

Shredded potatoes fried until crispy, similar to hash browns. Sometimes mixed with cheese, bacon, or onions. Served as a side dish or main course; eaten across Switzerland or can be served with a fried egg on top for breakfast.

🍫 Sweet Treats

Swiss Chocolate

World-famous for its quality; includes bars, pralines, and truffles and is pair with local wine or coffee for a gourmet experience. Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne have famous chocolate shops.