Classic Swiss Rösti Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 large potatoes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Peel the potatoes and grate them using a large-hole grater.
  2. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen cloth and squeeze to remove as much moisture as possible.
  3. Transfer the potatoes to a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Heat half the butter and half the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
  5. Add the potatoes to the pan, pressing them down firmly to form a cake.
  6. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Flip the Rösti over using a large spatula or by inverting it onto a plate and sliding it back into the pan.
  8. Add the remaining butter and oil around the edges of the Rösti and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the other side is golden brown and crispy.
  9. Slide the Rösti onto a serving plate and cut into wedges to serve.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add grated onions or garlic to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
  • Mix in grated cheese, such as Swiss or cheddar, to make a cheesy rösti.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika, to enhance the flavor.
  • Add cooked bacon or ham to create a meaty version of the rösti.
  • Replace the regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist on the dish.
  • Try using different types of oils, like olive oil or coconut oil, for a unique flavor.
  • Make a gluten-free version by using grated zucchini or cauliflower instead of potatoes.
  • Add a crispy topping by sprinkling breadcrumbs or cornflakes on top before cooking.
  • For a healthier option, bake the rösti in the oven instead of frying it in a pan.
  • Serve the rösti with toppings like sour cream, applesauce, or smoked salmon for added variety.

Recipe overview

Rösti is a classic Swiss dish typically made from potatoes and enjoyed all over the world. This simple yet delicious dish is very versatile and can be served as a main dish, side dish, or even a breakfast treat. Our recipe will guide you step-by-step in creating a perfectly crispy and golden brown Rösti. The key to a great Rösti lies in the crispiness achieved by frying the grated and seasoned potatoes in a combination of butter and vegetable oil. This recipe uses basic ingredients and is easy enough for beginners to follow. So, let's gather our ingredients and get started on making this delightful potato dish.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, you can use different types of potatoes for Rösti. However, starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are traditionally used as they provide the best texture.
  2. Can I make Rösti in advance? While it is best to serve Rösti immediately after cooking for the crispiest texture, you can make them in advance and reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop for a few minutes before serving.
  3. Can I add other ingredients to Rösti? Absolutely! Rösti can be customized to your taste by adding ingredients such as grated cheese, onions, herbs, or even bacon. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  4. Is Rösti gluten-free? Yes, Rösti is naturally gluten-free as it only consists of grated potatoes, salt, pepper, butter, and oil.
  5. Can I freeze leftover Rösti? Yes, you can freeze leftover Rösti. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grater - A large-hole grater is needed to grate the potatoes.
  • Non-stick frying pan - A non-stick frying pan is ideal for cooking the Rösti to prevent it from sticking.
  • Kitchen cloth - A clean kitchen cloth is used to squeeze out excess moisture from the grated potatoes.
  • Spatula - A large spatula is helpful for flipping the Rösti in the pan.
  • Plate - A plate can be used to invert the Rösti and slide it back into the pan for even cooking.

Origin stories

Steeped in Swiss tradition, Rösti originates from the canton of Bern, where it was typically consumed for breakfast by farmers. This humble potato dish was initially paired with a morning coffee before the arduous day of work ahead. Over time, the popularity of Rösti transcended the boundaries of Bern, spreading across Switzerland as a national dish. Interestingly, the Swiss German term ‘rösti’ translates to ‘crisp and golden’, aptly describing the dish’s tantalizingly crunchy exterior. Moreover, the so-called 'Röstigraben' (Rösti ditch) has become a playful term symbolizing the cultural differences between the German-speaking and the French-speaking parts of Switzerland, with the crispy Rösti acting as a culinary representation of the linguistic boundary.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.