Rösti

Rösti is a Swiss potato dish consisting of grated potatoes fried until crisp. It originated in the canton of Bern as a simple breakfast for farmers and has since become a common item in Swiss cuisine. Traditionally prepared with raw potatoes, the potatoes are peeled, coarsely grated, and pressed to remove excess moisture before being formed into a round cake and fried in butter or oil. The crust should be golden and the interior tender. Some cooks use parboiled or pre-cooked potatoes to improve handling or texture.

Variations vary by region. Basic rösti is plain, but many versions include onions or small pieces of bacon added during frying. The dish may be served plain as a side, or topped or layered with cheese, applesauce, fried eggs, or other accompaniments. The Bernese style tends to produce a thicker cake, while other regions favor a thinner, crispier pancake.

In Switzerland, rösti is commonly served as a side dish with sausages or roasts and as a breakfast item in many households and cafés. Outside Switzerland, rösti is often seen as a hash-brown–like preparation and may be served as a base for toppings or as a breakfast dish.