The Art Of Burning Fondue: A Beginner's Guide

Fondue is a fun cooking method for serving a meal to a small group. It involves melting cheese, chocolate, or another sauce in a pot and allowing guests to dip pieces of food into it. However, it's important to know how to light your fondue burner safely. Fondue fuels include liquid alcohol, gel fuel, and tea light candles. Liquid alcohol is highly flammable and must be handled with care, while gel fuel is a safer alternative. It's also important to use the correct type of fondue pot and fuel for the type of fondue you are making. For example, a metal fondue pot is used for high-heat fondues such as meat and seafood, while a ceramic pot is used for low-heat fondues like cheese and chocolate.

Choosing the right fondue pot

Type of Fondue

The type of fondue you plan to make will dictate the type of fondue pot you need. There are four main types of fondue pots:

• Cheese fondue pot: Cheese fondue pots are typically made of ceramic or earthenware, have a flat bottom and a large opening to accommodate dipping. They use adjustable alcohol or gel fuel burners to maintain a constant temperature, preventing melted cheese from solidifying.
• Hot Oil/Broth Fondue Pot: Hot oil fondue pots must be able to withstand very high temperatures without cracking, as they are used for cooking meat. Therefore, they are made of materials such as stainless steel, copper, or cast iron. Ceramic pots are not suitable for hot oil fondue.
• Dessert/Chocolate Fondue Pot: Chocolate or dessert fondue pots are smaller than cheese or meat fondue pots. They use a tealight to maintain the ideal temperature for melted chocolate and are made of materials such as earthenware, ceramic, porcelain, or tempered glass.
• Electric Fondue Pot: Electric fondue pots have gained popularity in recent years due to their versatility and convenience. They can be used for various types of fondue and typically have adjustable temperature settings.

Size and Capacity

Consider the size of the fondue pot and its capacity. If you plan to use it for entertaining guests, opt for a larger size and higher capacity. For a more intimate setting or a smaller group, a smaller fondue pot with a lower capacity will suffice.

Material

The material of the fondue pot is an important consideration. Cast iron, for example, is heavy and expensive but holds heat well. Enameled cast iron adds a smooth coating that makes it easier to clean. Stainless steel and aluminum are lighter and often have a non-stick coating but may heat unevenly.

Heat Source

Fondue pots can be heated using different sources, such as electricity, open flame (using a candle or gel fuel), or stovetop. Electric fondue pots are convenient as they don't require an open flame and have adjustable temperature settings. However, they need to be placed near an outlet. Open-flame fondue pots create a romantic atmosphere but offer less temperature control and pose a safety hazard, especially with children around.

Brand and Reputation

When investing in a fondue pot, consider purchasing from reputable companies that have been in the fondue equipment business for years, such as Swissmar, Trudeau, and Rival.

Fondue burner and fuel

When preparing fondue, it is important to use the right type of fondue pot and fondue fuel. The type of fuel you will need depends on the type of fondue you are making.

For chocolate, butterscotch, coffee, and other dessert fondues, the key is to keep the liquid warm enough to stop it from solidifying. The best fuel to use is a simple, unscented tealight candle. Burn the candle about two to three inches from the bottom of the pan or melting dish to keep the temperature at the optimum level. These candles will keep burning for 4 to 5 hours and present none of the dangers associated with liquid fuels.

For cheese, meat, or seafood fondues, you will need a fuel that burns at a higher temperature than tealights can achieve. Liquid alcohol is a good choice as it burns without odour and will not leave soot stains on the underside of the pan. It can be purchased from most grocery and drug stores and can be used for lamps and cleaning purposes as well. However, special care must be taken not to spill liquid fuel, especially near flames.

Gel fuel is essentially a jelly-like form of alcohol. Gram for gram, it burns at a slightly lower temperature than liquid alcohol, but it will burn for longer. The gel can be poured into a normal fondue burner and used in the same way as liquid fuel. The main advantage of gel fuel is safety—its higher viscosity means it is less likely to spill from the bottle or burner, and it will not run if it is spilled. This means there is less danger of fire, and if a fire does occur, it will be less dangerous than one caused by liquid fuel.

Chafing fuels are also gel fuels, but they are packaged in screw-top tins that double as the burning device. The advantage of this is that the fuel and container have been specifically designed to be burned, extinguished, and burned again. However, the disadvantage is that it is less aesthetically pleasing to use than a proper fondue set, and temperature control is not as precise.

Newer fondue sets may use pressurised butane gas, which offers excellent temperature control and easy reuse and does not create any odour. As long as the canister is not subjected to rough handling or dramatic changes in air pressure, this is probably the safest fuel option.

Preparing the fondue

Firstly, you will need to decide on the type of fondue you want to make. This will determine the type of fondue pot and fondue fuel you will need. For example, a ceramic fondue pot is used for preparing cheese and chocolate (dessert) fondues that do not require high heat, while a metal fondue pot is used for fondues that require high heat, such as meat and seafood.

Once you have chosen your pot, you will need to select the appropriate fuel. Fondue fuels include candles, gel fuel, liquid fuel, and electric. Tea light candles are best for chocolate, caramel, and dessert fondue, while gel or liquid fuel is required for meat, seafood, and hot oil fondue.

If using liquid alcohol fuel, take the burner to a safe area, such as a kitchen counter, and carefully pour the liquid into the bottom of the burner. Stop pouring when the fuel reaches the holes or mesh. Wipe off any spills and return the burner to the table, placing it under the pot. Ensure all flammable materials are kept away from the burner and open the air holes to the maximum. Light the burner with a match and adjust the openings to reach the desired temperature.

If using gel fuel, you can either insert a gel cartridge into the metal casing and place the top of the burner on top, or pour the gel directly into the fondue burner. Light the burner according to the instructions for an alcohol burner.

If using tea light candles, place one candle on the burner about 2-3 inches from the bottom of the saucepan and light it with a match or lighter.

Now you are ready to start preparing your fondue! For a cheese fondue, rub a clove of garlic inside the pot for added flavour. Heat the fondue on the stove, then transfer it to the fondue pot. Allow the cheese to melt slowly and add alcohol, such as wine, champagne, or beer, to enhance the flavour and prevent curdling. If the fondue starts to curdle, beat in some freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the mixture becomes smooth.

For a meat fondue, prepare your raw meat by removing any fat, cutting it into bite-sized cubes, and marinating if desired. Preheat your oil, broth, or wine to 375º F on the stove in the fondue pot. Do not fill the pot more than 1/3 full to prevent spattering and bubbling over. Transfer the pot to its holder on the table and turn on the burner.

For a chocolate fondue, choose a chocolate with a cocoa solid content above 50%. Heat the chocolate slowly, stirring constantly, and mix with warmed cream to prevent hardening and create a creamy texture. Add a liqueur to enhance the flavour and texture.

Dipping foods

When it comes to dipping foods for your fondue, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Breads and Crackers

Bread is the most popular dipper for cheese fondue, with good reason. Go for a crusty baguette, sourdough, rye, focaccia, brioche, or even a bagel. Toasting your bread is a good idea to prevent it from falling apart, and be sure to cut it into large cubes for easy dipping. If you're feeling adventurous, try some unique types of bread such as cranberry walnut loaf. Crackers are another great option, especially wheat crackers or tortilla chips. For an extra indulgent treat, try dipping soft or hard pretzels.

Vegetables

Almost any vegetable can be a delicious fondue dipper. Try roasted asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, carrots, zucchini, or green beans. Steam some baby potatoes, pearl onions, or radishes, or go for something quick and raw like celery, fennel spears, carrots, or cherry tomatoes. Pickled vegetables like onions, pickles, or sweet gherkins are also a fun choice, just be sure to pat them dry before dipping.

Meat and Seafood

Add some protein to your fondue with grilled steak, poached chicken, or cooked ham. Cured meats like beef jerky, salami, pepperoni, or sausage are also tasty options. For a real treat, try dipping steamed seafood like shrimp, crab, or lobster into your fondue. Bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts are another indulgent option, combining two classic fondue dippers into one.

Fruit

While it may seem unusual, fruit can be a delicious addition to your fondue. Try crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith, or Bosc pears which have nutmeg and cinnamon undertones that complement the spices in many fondues. Citrus fruits like oranges and tangerines, as well as apricots, nectarines, and peaches also make excellent dippers.

Safety procedures

Burning fondue safely requires careful preparation and constant attention. Here are some safety procedures to follow when burning fondue:

Choose the Right Fondue Pot and Heat Source:

• Select a fondue pot made from the appropriate material for your chosen type of fondue. Ceramic pots are suitable for cheese and chocolate fondues, while metal pots are used for high-heat cooking, such as meat and seafood fondues.
• Use a heat source that is suitable for your fondue pot. Options include candles, gel fuel, liquid fuel, electric burners, or alcohol burners.

Prepare the Fondue Mixture Safely:

• Prepare and heat the fondue on a stovetop first, using a double boiler to prevent scorching. Then, transfer the fondue to the fondue pot.
• For cheese fondue, finely shred the cheese to ensure easy melting. Alcohol, such as wine, champagne, or beer, can be added to enhance flavor and prevent curdling.
• Avoid adding water to thin the fondue, as it can alter the consistency. Instead, use wine or apple cider to adjust the thickness.

Monitor the Temperature:

• Keep the fondue warm but prevent it from boiling. Most cheese fondues should be served at around 120 degrees Fahrenheit to melt the cheese without burning it.
• Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, especially when using oil or broth, which should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit before transferring to the fondue pot.

Follow Safety Precautions During Cooking:

• Never leave the fondue pot unattended, and always supervise children closely.
• Use fondue forks for cooking, not for eating. These forks can become dangerously hot, and using them for eating can also promote the spread of germs. Provide separate plates and regular utensils for eating.
• If a fire erupts, do not use water as it will spread the flames. Instead, cover the fire with a lid to cut off the oxygen supply.

Prepare and Handle Food Safely:

• Dry meat and vegetables thoroughly before cooking in hot oil or broth to prevent dangerous spatters.
• For raw meat and seafood, arrange each type separately on platters to prevent cross-contamination, and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
• Precook meat, seafood, and vegetables if dipping in a fondue that is not hot enough to cook them, such as a cheese fondue.

By following these safety procedures, you can enjoy a delicious and safe fondue experience.

Frequently asked questions