The Perfect Apple Fondue: Cutting Apples Right

Apples are a perfect option for fondue, and there are several ways to cut them to make the perfect dippers. The best apple for fondue depends on whether you're going for a savoury or sweet dip. For a savoury, cheesy fondue, a tart apple like the Granny Smith is a good choice. Sweeter dips, like caramel or chocolate, pair well with apples that are both sweet and tart, like Gala or Pink Lady. A simple way to cut apples is to first quarter them by slicing through the core, then slice out the core and chop or slice the apple into uniform pieces. To prevent the apples from browning, brush them with lemon juice or soak them in a solution of lemon water or lemon-lime soda.

Brush with lemon juice to prevent browning

When preparing apples for fondue, it's important to consider the aesthetics of your fruit, especially if you're hosting guests. The flesh of apples turns brown when exposed to oxygen, making them look old or spoiled. To prevent this, brush the apples with lemon juice after cutting them. The acid in the lemon juice will impede discolouration, preserving the apples' appearance throughout your event.

Lemon juice is a simple and effective way to prevent browning, but it's important to note that it will alter the flavour of the apples slightly. However, when paired with chocolate fondue, the minimal taste of lemon will be covered by the rich flavour of the chocolate.

If you're looking for other ways to prevent browning, you can try soaking the cut apples in a solution of water and salt, or lemon-lime soda. Soaking apples in citrus water will also work, but the lemon juice may flavour the apples. These methods are effective in preventing oxidation, but the lemon juice method is the most convenient and flavourful option for fondue.

By following these simple steps and brushing your apples with lemon juice, you can ensure that your fruit stays fresh and appetising, making your fondue display even more inviting for your guests.

Quarter the apple through the core

To quarter an apple through the core, first, set the apple upright on your cutting board. Using a sharp chef's knife, slice the apple in half vertically, cutting through the stem. Place each half cut-side down and cut in half again, also known as quartering the apple. You should now have four equal pieces of apple.

Now that you have quartered the apple, you can remove the core and any remaining sections of the core by slicing a small piece off the narrow end of each quarter. The size of the apple chunks can be adjusted as needed—for fondue, it is recommended to cut the apple into bite-sized pieces so your guests can easily consume them.

Slice out the core

To cut apples for fondue, you'll want to slice them into pieces that are easy to pick up and dip. A good way to do this is to first quarter the apple. Stand the apple upright on a cutting board and slice it in half, through the stem. Then, place each apple half cut-side down and cut in half again, so that you have four quarters.

Now you're ready to slice out the core. Set each apple quarter on its flat, angled side and cut out the core. You can use a paring knife or a small sharp knife for this task if you prefer, rather than a chef's knife. Cut the core out in a straight line, removing the seeds and the tough white pith around them.

Once the core is removed, you can slice each quarter into 1/4-inch slices, or chop or dice as you prefer. The key is to keep the size uniform so that the apple pieces cook evenly and look neat.

Cut into uniform pieces

To cut apples into uniform pieces for fondue, start by placing the apple upright on a wooden cutting board. Then, use a sharp chef's knife to slice the apple in half vertically through the stem. After that, place each apple half cut-side down and cut it in half again, so you end up with four quarters of the apple.

Next, set each apple quarter on its flat, angled side and carefully slice out the core. You can now cut each cored apple quarter into your desired size and shape, such as slices, cubes, or chunks. Aim for a uniform size so that the apples cook evenly and have a neat appearance. A typical slice thickness is about 1/4 inch, and you can further cut these slices into matchsticks or dice them into small cubes.

If you're preparing the apples in advance, you can prevent them from turning brown by brushing them with lemon juice or soaking them in a solution of citrus water or lemon-lime soda. However, this may alter the taste of the apples slightly.

Choose the right apple for your fondue

Choosing the right apple for your fondue is a very important decision, as it can make or break the taste of your delicious treat. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the perfect apple:

Type of Fondue

The type of fondue you are making will play a crucial role in determining the best apple for your fondue. If you are going for a sweet fondue, such as caramel or chocolate, you will want to choose a different apple than if you were making a savoury cheese fondue.

Taste Preferences

Do you prefer your apples sweet, tart, or a combination of both? For a sweet treat, Fuji or Gala apples are a great choice. If you're feeling adventurous, try Pink Lady apples, which offer a unique balance of sweetness and tartness. On the other hand, if you're a fan of tart apples, Granny Smith apples are the way to go. They pair exceptionally well with savoury, cheesy fondues.

Apple Texture

The texture of the apple is another important consideration. Some apples are crisp and juicy, while others may be softer or have a different bite to them. Think about whether you want your apple to provide a crunchy contrast to the fondue or if you prefer something that melts in your mouth alongside the fondue.

Availability and Seasonality

Different apple varieties have their peak seasons, so consider what apples are in season when you plan your fondue night. Using apples that are in season will ensure they are at their freshest and most flavourful.

Experimentation

Lastly, don't be afraid to experiment! While some apple varieties are commonly recommended for fondue, you may find that your personal favourite apple creates an exceptional fondue experience. Try different types of apples with your fondue and discover your unique favourite combination.

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy your fondue night with your loved ones. Happy dipping!

Frequently asked questions