Gluten-Free Fondue: A Tasty Guide To Melty Goodness

Gluten-free fondue is a fun and easy dish to make at home, and a great choice for a dinner party or other gatherings. There are a variety of gluten-free fondue recipes, including cheese fondue, chocolate fondue, and cream cheese balls fondue. The key to making gluten-free fondue is to use gluten-free thickeners such as cornstarch, gluten-free flour, or tapioca starch, and to serve it with gluten-free dippers like bread, vegetables, or fruits. The fondue pot and temperature control are also important factors in creating the perfect gluten-free fondue.

How to Make Gluten-Free Fondue

Choosing gluten-free dippers: bread, veggies, meat, and fruit

When it comes to choosing gluten-free dippers for your fondue, you have a variety of options, including bread, veggies, meat, and fruit. Here are some ideas and tips to help you select the perfect gluten-free dippers for your fondue party:

Bread

Gluten-free bread is a must-have dipper for fondue, especially when paired with melted cheese. Look for gluten-free baguettes or breadsticks, or make your own by slicing gluten-free French baguettes into 1/2-inch thick slices. You can brush them with garlic butter, olive oil, or herbs before baking for extra flavour. Gluten-free pita bread or pita chips are also a great option for dipping.

Veggies

Vegetables are a healthy and delicious choice for dipping in fondue. You can blanch or steam veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or cauliflower to make them more fondue-friendly. Raw veggies like carrots, snap peas, bell peppers, and raw cauliflower also work well. If you want to get creative, try roasting Brussels sprouts or baby potatoes. Just be sure to keep them bite-sized so they're easy to dip!

Meat

Meat dippers can add a savoury and satisfying element to your fondue. Try cooked steak bites, chorizo sausages, or ham cubes. Cured meats like salami or prosciutto are also excellent choices. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even provide raw meat options like chicken breasts or shrimp, and let your guests cook their own using a hot plate or electric grill.

Fruit

Fruit adds a sweet and refreshing contrast to the savoury flavours of cheese or meat fondue. Tart apples, especially Granny Smith or green apples, are a classic choice. You can also try pears, bananas, or strawberries. For a festive touch, serve fruit that's in season. Just be sure to cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces to make dipping easier.

Remember, when selecting gluten-free dippers, always read labels carefully and choose certified gluten-free options to ensure your fondue remains gluten-free. Now you're ready to create a delicious and safe fondue experience for you and your guests!

Using cornstarch to thicken the fondue

Cornstarch is a naturally gluten-free thickening agent used in cheese fondue. It stabilises the cheese mixture and prevents it from separating. To use cornstarch to thicken your fondue, start by shredding your cheese. Then, in a mixing bowl, combine the cheese with cornstarch and toss until the cheese is completely coated. Set this aside.

Next, rub the inside of your electric fondue pot with a cut garlic clove. You can also mince the garlic and heat it in oil if you prefer. Then, add your wine or beer to the fondue pot and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, add your lemon juice, nutmeg, mustard powder, and black pepper.

Now, it's time to add the cheese. Gradually add the shredded cheese mixture to the pot, stirring with a rubber spatula until it is melted before adding the next handful. Continue until all the cheese is melted and smooth. Finally, add your Kirsch, Cognac, or other brandy, and stir to combine. Keep the fondue warm over low heat and serve with your favourite gluten-free dippers!

It's important to note that cornstarch is not the only option for thickening fondue. Some recipes call for flour, which can be used in a pinch. However, it may impart a raw flour taste, so it's best to cook it first by making a roux or bechamel.

Fondue pot options

Fondue pots come in a variety of materials, sizes, and styles, and the best option for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Here are some options to consider:

Electric Fondue Pots:

• Cuisinart Electric Fondue Pot: This pot features eight easy-to-adjust heat settings and a nonstick insert for easy cleanup. It includes eight color-coded forks and a ring insert to hold them in place. While it is a great option for a small group, the cord is a little short.
• Nostalgia 1.5-Quart Stainless Steel Electric Fondue Pot: With 11 heat settings, this pot offers a wide range of temperature options. It is easy to use and affordable. However, the pot is thin and heats up quickly and unevenly, requiring frequent adjustments. The insert also feels less sturdy and wobbles a bit.
• Dash Deluxe Stainless Steel Fondue Maker: This option includes eight color-coded forks, attachable ingredient cups, and a precise temperature dial. The inner pot has markings for minimum and maximum fill levels and is made of nonstick stainless steel for easy cleaning. However, the electric cord is short, which can be a hassle for gatherings.

Traditional Fondue Pots:

• Swissmar Lugano 9-Piece Cheese Fondue Set: This set features a 2-quart enameled cast iron fondue pot in a rustic, old-world style. It can be used on the stove and has excellent heat retention. The wrought-iron stand holds a gel fuel container that provides heat. It includes six three-tined fondue forks. However, it can get a bit too hot, and the enamel coating may scratch over time.
• Swissmar Sierra Iron Fondue: This set includes a 1.6-quart fondue pot with handles, a splatter ring, a stand, a fuel burner (fuel sold separately), and a grooved wooden base. The heavy enameled cast iron pot retains heat well at both low and high temperatures. It can be heated on the stovetop or in the oven and then kept warm on the stand. The wooden base protects your table from drips or spills.
• Cuisinart 13-Piece Cast Iron Fondue Set: This enameled cast iron fondue set is ideal for meat fondue but can also be used with cheese or chocolate. It has excellent heat distribution and retention, keeping contents consistently heated. The cast iron pot can be used on the stovetop and then transferred to its stand. It includes six forks and is dishwasher-safe. However, it has a small capacity of 1.5 quarts.
• All-Clad Cast Aluminum Fondue Pot: This set includes an oven- and stovetop-safe insert that can handle a variety of sauces. The outer pot is made of shiny steel, and the nonstick aluminum insert has a capacity of 2.5 quarts. It is heated by a candle or chafing fuel and includes eight sharp-tined, color-coded forks. However, it is pricey, and the insert lacks handles, making it tricky to transfer.

When choosing a fondue pot, consider factors such as your budget, the number of people you plan to serve, the type of fuel or power source you prefer, and the level of temperature control you desire. Additionally, think about the materials, size, and style that best suit your needs and preferences.

Gluten-free beer as an ingredient

Gluten-free beer is a great ingredient to use when making gluten-free fondue. It adds a nice kick to the flavour of the fondue and is a good alternative to wine, which is commonly used in fondue recipes. Using gluten-free beer ensures that the fondue is suitable for those with celiac disease, wheat allergies, or those on a gluten-free diet.

When making a gluten-free cheese fondue with beer, it is important to first toss the shredded cheese with gluten-free flour or cornstarch. This helps to thicken the fondue and prevent the cheese from clumping. You can use a variety of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar, gouda, gruyere, or emmental. Once the cheese is prepared, heat oil in a fondue pot and add the gluten-free beer, along with any desired spices or seasonings. Then, add the cheese and stir until melted.

It is important to note that if you are serving the fondue with bread, it is essential to use gluten-free bread to ensure that the dish remains gluten-free. You can also serve the fondue with raw or blanched vegetables, fruits, and gluten-free pretzels for dipping.

Gluten-free beer can also be used in other types of fondue, such as meat fondue. For example, you can serve cubed gluten-free bread, raw or cooked meat, and vegetables with a gluten-free cheese fondue made with beer. Alternatively, you can serve cooked meat, seafood, and vegetables with a chocolate fondue sauce or a cream cheese fondue sauce.

Making gluten-free tortilla wedges

Ingredients:

• Gluten-free flour tortillas (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil or another light vegetable oil of your choice
• Coarse sea salt

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Place two gluten-free tortillas on the parchment paper.
• Use a brush to spread a thin layer of olive oil over the tortillas.
• Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the tortillas.
• Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to slice each tortilla into 8 wedges. You can also cut them into strips or any other desired shape.
• Slide the parchment paper with the tortilla wedges onto a baking sheet.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 7-8 minutes, or until the wedges are crispy and lightly browned.
• Remove from the oven and serve soon after baking for the best texture.

You can serve these gluten-free tortilla wedges with various dips, such as cheese fondue, spinach artichoke dip, or your favourite salsa or hummus. They make a great gluten-free option for parties or family gatherings.

Frequently asked questions