Bircher Rösti

Background & History

Bircher Rösti is a delightful Swiss dish that brings together two traditional culinary stars: "Bircher" referring to the famed Bircher muesli, a popular breakfast made of oats and fruits, and "Rösti," a national Swiss dish akin to hash browns. Rösti holds a significant place in Swiss cuisine, initially served as a farmer's breakfast in the canton of Bern. Over time, it became a beloved dish across Switzerland. The combination of Bircher muesli with Rösti might seem unconventional but showcases the creativity and regional adaptation in Swiss kitchens.

Ingredients

• Potatoes - 500g, peeled and grated
• Oats - 100g
• Milk - 150ml
• Apple - 1, peeled, cored, and grated
• Butter - 50g
• Salt - 1 tsp
• Pepper - 1 tsp
• Nutmeg - a pinch
• Yogurt - 100g
• Honey - 1 tbsp
• Lemon - a squeeze, for flavor

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Oats

Start by soaking the oats in milk for about 30 minutes. This allows them to soften and prepares the base for what would traditionally be a Bircher muesli mix.

Step 2: Potato Preparation

Meanwhile, take the potatoes, peel, and grate them using a box grater. Squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel to ensure a crispy texture.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Take the soaked oats and mix them with the grated potatoes, apple, salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg. Mix well to combine all flavors.

Step 4: Cooking the Rösti

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the potato and oat mixture. Press it down gently to form an even layer, and cook for about 10 minutes until the underside is golden brown. You can check the cooking time here.

Step 5: Flip and Finish

Carefully flip the rösti using a plate or by sliding it onto the plate first, then inverting back onto the pan. Cook the other side for another 8-10 minutes, ensuring a crispy finish.

How to Enjoy

Once cooked, slide the Bircher Rösti onto a serving plate. Serve it hot, with a dollop of yogurt mixed with a drizzle of honey and a squeeze of lemon on top. This dish can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a fulfilling brunch.

Bircher Rösti combines the comforting texture of rösti with the refreshing and nutritious elements of oats and apples, offering a balanced meal that's a tribute to Swiss culinary traditions.