Fondue Maker: Worth The Investment For Melty Goodness?

Fondue is a fun and interactive meal, perfect for a dinner party or a romantic night in. While you can make fondue without a fondue pot, using one will ensure that your ingredients stay at the right temperature and don't burn.

Fondue pots come in a variety of materials, including cast iron, stainless steel, ceramic, and copper. They can be heated using candles or gel fuel, or with electricity if you opt for an electric fondue pot.

There are several factors to consider when choosing a fondue pot. First, think about how many people you'll be serving. Pots come in a range of sizes, from small pots that are perfect for two people to large pots that can accommodate a crowd. The material of the pot is also important, as some materials conduct heat more efficiently than others. For example, cast iron is known for its even heat distribution, while copper and stainless steel are better at conducting heat, making them a good choice for broth- and oil-based fondues.

Additionally, you'll want to consider the type of fondue you'll be making. For chocolate fondue, a moderate heat source like a tea light is best to prevent scorching. For cheese fondue, enameled cast iron is a good choice because of its heat retention and distribution capabilities.

- Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Fondue Pot: This durable and versatile pot is made from enameled cast iron, which is ideal for cheese fondue. It has a wide brim that makes stirring easy, and it comes in Le Creuset's signature orange colour.

- Boska Candlelight Twinkle Fondue Set: This set uses the combined power of five tea lights to generate enough heat for a full pot of cheese fondue. The ceramic exterior is matte white and dishwasher-safe.

- Cuisinart Electric Fondue Maker: This electric fondue pot is a good choice for oil- or broth-based fondues as it provides greater temperature control. It includes eight colour-coded fondue forks and has a nonstick interior for easy cleaning.

- Staub Cast Iron 0.25-qt Mini Fondue Set: This mini fondue set is perfect for cooking smaller quantities of fondue and achieving a crust quickly. The cast iron construction is heavy-bottomed and preseasoned, and the set includes four fondue forks.

- Boska XL Mr. Big Fondue Pot: With dual ethanol burners, this extra-large fondue pot is perfect for serving a large batch of fondue. The ceramic material diffuses heat to prevent scorching, and the set includes 12 fondue forks.

Electric vs traditional fondue pots

Fondue is a fun and interactive dining experience that can be enjoyed by friends and family alike. While the traditional method of making fondue involves using a pot over an open flame, there are now electric fondue pots available that offer a more modern and convenient approach. So, which type of fondue pot is the best option for you? Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of each.

Electric Fondue Pots:

• Electric fondue pots are very convenient as they don't require any fuel and can be used anywhere there is an electric socket nearby.
• They offer excellent heat control, with adjustable temperature dials that allow you to easily adjust the heat as needed. This is especially useful when cooking with oil or broth, or when you need to reduce the heat to prevent scorching chocolate or cheese.
• Most electric fondue pots have non-stick interiors, making them easy to clean. Some are even dishwasher-safe.
• The all-in-one design of some electric fondue pots means there is no need for a separate pot, and the magnetic breakaway cord offers added safety.
• One drawback of electric fondue pots is that they require access to an electric socket, which may limit where you can use them.
• The cord can be a bit of an eyesore and may require an extension cord for larger tables.

Traditional Fondue Pots:

• Traditional fondue pots use an open flame, usually from gel fuel or tea lights, which adds a cosy and romantic atmosphere to your fondue experience.
• They are very portable and can be used anywhere, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings or picnics.
• Traditional fondue pots often feature attractive designs, such as wrought-iron stands and enameled cast iron pots, that give them a rustic and charming appearance.
• Cleaning traditional fondue pots can be more challenging, especially if cheese or chocolate has cooled and stuck to the pot. Soaking the pot in warm water and using mild soap and a gentle scrubber can help.
• One disadvantage of traditional fondue pots is the lack of precise temperature control. This can make it tricky to prevent your fondue from overheating or burning.

In conclusion, both electric and traditional fondue pots have their pros and cons. If you're looking for convenience, precise temperature control, and easy cleaning, an electric fondue pot is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want to create a cosy atmosphere and don't mind the extra cleaning, a traditional fondue pot might be the better option. Ultimately, the best fondue pot for you will depend on your personal preferences and specific needs.

Fondue pot materials

Fondue pots come in a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed overview of the most common fondue pot materials:

Glazed Ceramic

Glazed ceramic fondue pots are best suited for cheese fondue as they distribute heat evenly, reducing the chances of burning. They are also traditional and aesthetically pleasing, making them a popular choice for those seeking an authentic fondue experience. However, they can be fragile and prone to breakage, which is a significant drawback.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel fondue pots are perfect for fondue bourguignonne (hot oil) and Mongolian hot pot (hot broth) cooking due to their quick heat transfer. They are also more affordable than other materials. However, stainless steel pots can have hot spots, and the heat distribution may not be as even as with other materials, making them less ideal for cheese or chocolate fondue. Some stainless steel pots come with a porcelain insert to address this issue.

Enameled Metal

Enameled metal fondue pots, such as those made of cast iron or hard-anodized aluminum, are versatile and can be used for a wide range of fondue applications, including cheese, chocolate, broth, and oil-based fondues. They are durable, retain heat well, and are easy to clean. However, they may be heavier and more expensive than other options.

Cast Iron

Cast iron fondue pots are known for their excellent heat retention and even heating, making them suitable for various fondues, including meat, cheese, and chocolate. They often feature attractive enamel finishes and come in various colours. While cast iron pots are sturdy and long-lasting, they may require extra care during cleaning to prevent scratching or chipping.

Aluminum

Aluminum fondue pots, such as the All-Clad Cast Aluminum Fondue Pot, are good conductors of heat and can handle high temperatures required for broth and oil fondues. They usually come with inserts suitable for cheese or chocolate fondues. However, aluminum pots may be more expensive and bulkier to store than other options.

Electric Fondue Pots

Electric fondue pots offer precise temperature control and are easy to use, making them a popular choice for those seeking convenience and consistency. They often feature non-stick coatings for easy cleaning and come with various accessories, such as forks and serving trays. However, their use is limited by the availability of an electric power source, and the cords may be short, impacting their placement on a table.

Fondue heat sources

There are at least five types of heat sources that can be used with fondue sets:

• Alcohol fuel: Denatured alcohol or isopropyl alcohol can be used for both high and low heat.
• Butane fuel: Butane can also be used for high and low heat. It involves filling up a small tank underneath the stand, from which the flame burns.
• Electric heat: Electric fondue sets may not produce as much heat as alcohol or butane sets, so you may need to start your broth or oil on the stove before transferring it to the fondue pot.
• Sterno (gel fuel): Sterno comes in small tins or as a pourable gel fuel in bottles. It's suitable for cooking fondues but may not get hot enough for some types.
• Tea light candles: Tea light candles are best for keeping chocolate fondue warm and won't provide enough heat for other types of fondue.

When choosing a heat source for your fondue, it's important to consider your unique needs. Electric fondue pots offer more heat efficiency and precise temperature control, but you'll need an electric socket nearby. Fondue pots that use tea lights and gel fuels are more portable but require fuel to operate and may not generate as much heat.

Fondue pot sizes

Fondue pots come in a variety of sizes, ranging from a single cup to more than a gallon. The size you need will depend on the number of people you plan to serve. For a couple, a quart capacity or even smaller will work fine, whereas for larger groups, a pot of 3 to 3.5 quarts is recommended.

The Cuisinart CFO-3SS Electric Fondue Maker, which has a capacity of 3 quarts and is suitable for up to six people, is a popular choice for those looking for an electric option. The Nostalgia 1.5-Quart Stainless Steel Electric Fondue Pot is another popular choice for couples or small groups, with a capacity of 1.5 quarts.

For non-electric options, the Swissmar Lugano 9-Piece Cheese Fondue Set is a traditional-style fondue pot with a capacity of 2 quarts, suitable for serving four people. The Cuisinart 13-Piece Cast Iron Fondue Set is another highly versatile option with a capacity of 1.5 quarts.

Fondue recipes

Cheese Fondue

Fondue is a Swiss dish that gained popularity in the US in the 1960s and involves melting cheese and serving it in a pot over a portable stove. People then dip bread into the pot using long-stemmed forks.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry white wine
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 pound shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 pound shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 (1-pound) loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

Method

• Bring wine to a simmer in a fondue pot over medium-low heat.
• Stir in flour and nutmeg until well combined.
• Add Swiss and Gruyère cheeses, 1/4 pound at a time, mixing after each addition until the cheese is melted. Season with salt.
• Serve with cubed French bread.

Tips

• For the best results, use good-quality, creamy, and buttery cheese that melts smoothly.
• Good choices of cheese include fontina, Gruyère, gouda, Swiss cheese, Emmental, cheddar, and mozzarella.
• You can also add a tablespoon of brandy, cognac, kirsch, or cherry brandy for an extra note of flavour.
• If the fondue gets too thick, add a little more white wine until you reach your desired texture.
• You can serve cheese fondue with cubed French bread, meat, potatoes, sliced fruit (such as apples), vegetables (such as cauliflower, broccoli, and sliced bell peppers), crackers, chips, or pretzels.

Chocolate Fondue

Chocolate fondue is a fun and delicious treat that can be served as a dessert.

Ingredients

• Chocolate (any type of your choice)
• Marshmallows
• Pretzels
• Cake
• Fruits (such as strawberries, bananas, pears, berries, apples)
• Cookies
• Sweets

Method

• Melt the chocolate in a fondue pot.
• Place your chosen treats on a tray.
• Dip the treats into the melted chocolate and enjoy!

Frequently asked questions