Lighting Gel Fuel For Fondue: A Step-By-Step Guide

Fondue is a fun way to enjoy a meal with friends and family. But to have a great fondue experience, it's important to know how to light your fondue burner safely. The type of fuel you use will depend on the type of fondue pot you have and the type of fondue you're making. For example, a chocolate fondue only requires a small tea light candle to keep it warm, whereas a hot oil or broth fondue requires a higher temperature and a different type of fondue burner. Gel fuel is a popular choice for fondue because it's safer and easier to use than liquid alcohol fuel, which is highly flammable and can't be purchased online. When using gel fuel, always make sure you're in a safe work area, and be sure to read the instructions that come with your fondue burner to light it correctly.

How to Light Gel Fuel for Fondue

Using a match to ignite the fuel

Using a match to ignite the gel fuel for your fondue is a simple process, but it's important to follow safety precautions. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, ensure you have the right equipment. You will need a fondue pot, a burner, and gel fuel. The burner should be compatible with gel fuel, and it should be removable so that you can fill it with fuel. Place your burner on a stable surface, such as a kitchen counter, and make sure it is away from any flammable materials.

Next, you will need to fill the burner with gel fuel. Remove the bottom half of the burner and take out the part that contains the fuel. This might be a mesh surface or a surface with holes. If you are using a gel cartridge, insert it into the metal casing. If you are using pourable gel fuel, carefully pour it directly into the bottom of the burner. Do not overfill the burner, and wipe off any spills.

Once your burner is filled, return the top half of the burner and place it underneath your fondue pot. Make sure that the burner is securely in place and stable. Now you are ready to light the gel fuel.

Take a match and bring it close to the holes in the burner. You may need to open the air holes to their maximum opening to ensure the fuel catches the flame. Light the match and hold it to the holes until the gel fuel ignites. Once the fuel is lit, discard the used match.

You can now adjust the openings to control the size of the flame and the temperature of your fondue. Remember to always exercise caution when working with an open flame, and never leave the burner unattended.

When you are finished with your fondue, simply cover the burner to extinguish the flame. Allow the burner to cool completely before attempting to refuel.

Ensuring the correct fondue pot is used

When preparing a fondue, it is important to ensure that you are using the correct fondue pot and fuel type. The type of fondue pot you use will depend on the type of fondue you are making.

For chocolate fondue, caramel fondue, and dessert fondue, a small fondue pot is required. These types of fondue only need to be kept warm, so the fondue burners typically used are unscented tea light candles.

On the other hand, meat, seafood, and vegetarian fondues require higher temperatures. For these types of fondue, a fondue pot made for high heat is necessary. An example of a burner that can be used with these types of fondue is the Cuisinox Stainless Steel Fondue Burner, which works with both gel and alcohol fuel.

It is important to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific fondue pot you are using. Additionally, when using liquid fuel, be careful not to spill it and ensure all flammable materials are kept away from the burner.

Safety measures to follow when using gel fuel

When using gel fuel for fondue, there are several safety measures you should follow to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some detailed instructions and safety tips to keep in mind:

Instructions for Safe Use:

• Always use the right type of fondue pot and fondue fuel.
• If using liquid alcohol fuel, never fill the burner while it's hot and never overfill it.
• Refill the burner only when it has cooled down. Wipe off any spills before lighting it.
• Ensure all flammable materials are kept away from the burner.
• Use only a lit match to ignite the fuel.
• Adjust the openings to control the desired temperature.
• If using gel fuel, follow the instructions for your specific fondue burner. Some burners have removable bottoms, while others require pouring gel directly into the burner.
• When you're finished, cover the burner to extinguish the flame.

Safety Tips:

• Keep your face away from the burner when refueling.
• If gel fuel spills on clothing, remove the clothing immediately and launder it.
• Never leave a lit burner unattended.
• Maintain a safe distance of at least one foot between the burner and anything flammable.
• Place the burner on a sturdy, heat-resistant surface.
• Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the burner at all times.
• Be cautious when reaching over the burner to avoid contact with hot surfaces or flames.
• Only use gel fuel for refueling. Do not substitute with other types of fuel.
• Allow the burner to cool completely (30-45 minutes) before refueling to prevent splattering.
• Store gel fuel in its original, tightly sealed container, away from heat sources and out of reach of children and pets.
• Keep the area around the burner free of combustible materials.
• Always store and use gel fuel in a well-ventilated area.
• Do not smoke near gel fuel.

How to light an alcohol burner

To light an alcohol burner for fondue, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure you are using the right type of fondue pot and fondue fuel. Use only a liquid alcohol fuel or gel packets containing gelatinized alcohol fuel. If using liquid alcohol, pour 2 ounces of fuel into the burner for 1 hour of burning time, or 3 ounces for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Place the burner cover on top of the base, then set the burner on the fondue stand and remove the cover.

Before lighting, ensure all flammable materials are moved away from the burner, such as napkins and paper. Use a match to ignite the fuel. Bring the match towards the hole in the centre of the burner until the fuel catches the flame.

To adjust the flame, use the handle on the base of the burner to raise or lower it by exposing or covering the holes in the top. To extinguish the flame, simply place the burner cover on top of the burner base.

Always wait for the burner to cool down before refilling it with fuel.

Alternative fuel options

If you are looking for alternative fuel options for your fondue, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to ensure that your fuel is compatible with your fondue pot and burner. Different types of fondue require different temperatures, so the type of fuel you use will depend on whether you are preparing a chocolate fondue or a meat fondue, for example.

For chocolate fondue, caramel fondue, and dessert fondue, you will only need to melt your dipping sauce and keep it warm, so tea light candles are a good option. These can be easily found in most grocery or hardware stores. If you are using a burner, ensure that it is suitable for indoor use and always follow safety precautions.

For meat, seafood, or vegetarian fondues, higher temperatures are required. Options for this include gel fuel or liquid alcohol fuel. If using liquid alcohol fuel, be very careful to avoid spills as it is highly flammable. You can find this type of fuel in your local grocery store, usually near the BBQ supplies.

If you are looking for a more adjustable heat source, you could consider a butane burner, although these tend to be more expensive.

Frequently asked questions