Using A Cast Iron Fondue Burner: A Step-By-Step Guide

To use a cast iron fondue burner, you'll first need to decide on the type of fuel. While liquid alcohol is a simple and cheap option, it's also highly flammable and can be dangerous and messy. Fondue gel fuel is often a safer alternative.

Once you've chosen your fuel, it's time to light the burner. If using alcohol, take the burner away from the fondue pot and onto a safe surface like a kitchen counter. Fill the burner with around 3 ounces of fuel (never overfill it or fill it while it's still hot). Wipe off any spills, then return the burner to its place under the fondue pot. Protect your table from the heat with a heat pad, wooden board, or tile. Light the burner with a match (never a lighter) and adjust the openings to control the flame size and temperature.

When you're done, smother the flame by covering the burner. Allow it to cool before refuelling.

Using the right type of fondue pot and fuel

When it comes to using a cast iron fondue burner, it's important to select the right type of fondue pot and fuel to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you make the right choices:

Selecting the Right Fondue Pot

The type of fondue pot you choose will depend on the type of fondue you want to make. Here are some options:

• Meat Fondue Pots: For cooking meat fondue, you need a pot that can heat hot oil or broth. The ideal material for the pot is stainless steel, as it can withstand high temperatures. Look for pots with strong handles, a stable base, and an adjustable alcohol burner.
• Metal Fondue Pots: Metal fondue pots, typically made of stainless steel, are suitable for cooking meat fondue. They can be placed on a stovetop to heat the oil and then transferred to the flame when ready to serve.
• Electric Fondue Pots: If you prefer a flameless option, electric fondue pots are a safe and adjustable alternative to open flames. They are great for controlling the temperature and avoiding potential complications associated with alcohol burners.
• Cheese Fondue Pots: Traditionally, cheese fondue pots are made of earthenware or ceramic. These materials heat up slowly and retain a constant temperature, making them ideal for cheese fondue. Look for pots with thick bases, sturdy handles, and adjustable heat sources.
• Dessert Fondue Pots: For making chocolate and dessert fondue, you may use smaller fondue pots. These pots don't require a high flame, and you can use tea light candles as a fuel source to keep the fondue warm.

Choosing the Right Fondue Fuel

The type of fuel you use will depend on the type of fondue and the desired temperature. Here are some common options:

• Alcohol Fuel: Alcohol burners are commonly used for meat fondue, as they provide high temperatures necessary for cooking meat. Denatured alcohol or fondue fuel gel are safe options for these burners. When using alcohol fuel, follow safety precautions such as never filling the burner while it's hot and always wiping off any spills.
• Gel Fuel: Fondue gel fuel is a popular alternative to liquid alcohol. It is safer to handle and can be used for cheese fondue or hot oil/broth fondue. Some burners have removable bottoms to insert gel fuel cartridges, while others require pouring the gel directly into the burner.
• Butane Fuel: Butane fondue burners are newer to the market and are suitable for cooking beef fondue, broth, or cheese fondue. However, they are not recommended for more delicate items like chocolate fondue.
• Tea Light Candles: For chocolate, caramel, and dessert fondue, unscented tea light candles are sufficient to keep the fondue warm. These are ideal for fondues that don't require high temperatures.
• Sterno Fuel: In case you misplace your fondue burner, you can use a "Sterno" type of burner as a substitute. Sterno is a brand of fuel that comes in a container and can be placed under your fondue pot.

How to light an alcohol or gel burner

To light an alcohol burner for your fondue, you will need to follow these safety measures:

• Never fill the burner while it is still hot and never overfill it.
• Take the burner away from the fondue pot and place it in a safe area, like a kitchen counter.
• If you are refilling the burner, wait for it to cool off. Then, carefully pour the liquid alcohol into the bottom of the burner.
• Your burner should have holes or some kind of mesh with an absorbent pad inside. Stop pouring when the liquid is approaching the holes or mesh.
• If you spilled any fuel on or around the burner, wipe it off with a paper towel.
• Bring the refilled burner back to the table and place it underneath your fondue pot.
• Ensure that all spills are wiped and that there is no paper or flammable material nearby.
• Open the air holes to the maximum opening and carefully bring a lit match to the holes.
• Once the burner is lit, adjust the openings to the desired temperature.
• To extinguish the flame, set the burner cover on top of the burner base.

If you are using a gel burner, the process is similar to lighting an alcohol burner, with a few differences:

• The fondue burners that are compatible with gel fuel cartridges have a removable bottom half.
• Remove the bottom half and insert a gel cartridge into the metal casing.
• Place the top of the fondue burner with the opening for air on top of the bottom part.
• If you are not using a gel cartridge, remove the bottom portion and pour the gel directly into the fondue burner.
• Return the top and light the burner as per the alcohol burner instructions.
• When you are done eating, simply put the cover on the burner to extinguish the flame.

How to light a candlelit fondue

To light a candlelit fondue, you'll first need to prepare your fondue on the stove. Use a double boiler or two pots (a small pot inside a larger one containing water) to make your fondue. Once it's ready, transfer it to your fondue pot.

Your fondue pot only needs to keep the fondue warm and liquefied, so you'll only need a small unscented tea light candle as your fuel source. Place the candle underneath the fondue pot and light it with a match or a lighter.

How to clean a fondue pot

Before cleaning your fondue pot, allow it to cool completely. This is important for your safety, to protect you from burns.

Use a spatula to remove as much of the leftover contents from the pot as possible. Dispose of used oil by pouring it into a container, sealing, and throwing it in the trash. Do not pour oil down the drain as it can cause plumbing problems.

Next, heat a pot of water on the stove until it almost comes to a boil. Add several drops of dishwashing liquid to the fondue pot and fill it with enough hot water to cover the entire pot. Let the pot sit for 10 minutes, or for burnt-on food, leave it to soak overnight. Check periodically to see if the food is beginning to loosen.

Once the fondue pot has soaked, empty the water and use a scrub brush or sponge to loosen any stuck-on remains. Wash the entire pot in hot, soapy water, being careful not to scrub with anything harsh that will scratch the surface. Rinse the pot thoroughly with clean water, removing all soap residue, and dry.

Additional Tips for Cleaning Different Types of Pots:

• For cast iron fondue pots, wash with hot water and a sponge, focusing on areas with stuck-on food. If cleaned immediately, most foods will come off easily.
• If there are areas with stubborn, stuck-on food, sprinkle some table or sea salt over the food and scrub with a sponge. Rinse and dry the pot thoroughly.
• For copper pots, cover the inside and outside of the pot with a thin layer of table salt. Pour white wine vinegar over the salt, enough to wet the pot, and let it sit for 30 seconds. Scrub the pot with a sponge soaked in white vinegar, focusing on particularly dirty spots. Rinse and dry the pot.
• For aluminium pots, mix three parts water to one part white wine vinegar in the pot and bring the solution to a boil on the stove. Remove from the heat, add two tablespoons of baking soda, and let it fizz and react. Pour out the solution, scour the pot with a non-abrasive sponge, and rinse and dry.

Types of fondue pot fuels

When it comes to fondue pot fuels, there are several options to choose from, each with its own advantages and considerations. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the different types of fondue pot fuels:

• Electric Fondue Pots: These modern fondue makers offer adjustable temperature settings, making them versatile for various recipes. The set typically includes a base, bowl, temperature probe, forks, and a fork rack. While electric pots may not be considered traditional, they are a convenient option if you want a shortcut to making fondues. They are also a good choice if you prefer automated appliances. However, cleaning them can be a bit challenging due to the presence of electrical components.
• Tea Light Candles: For dessert fondue pots, which are typically smaller than regular ones, tea light candles are a suitable fuel source. They provide a small amount of heat to keep your chocolate or dessert fondue warm. However, if you have a larger pot, a tea light may not be sufficient and could result in slow and uneven heating.
• Butane Fondue Burners: Butane fondue burners are a newer option on the market. They store butane in a tank, and this fuel is suitable for preparing beef fondue, broth, or cheese fondue. However, they are not recommended for more delicate dishes like chocolate fondue.
• Alcohol Fuel: Alcohol fuel, when used with an adjustable burner unit, is an excellent source of heat for fondue making. It can be used for both chocolate and cheese fondue, depending on the flame's intensity. Alcohol burners are the hottest tabletop heat source, making them ideal for heating oils to cook meat. However, liquid alcohol is highly flammable and cannot be purchased online. It should be handled with caution to avoid spills.
• Gel Fondue Fuel: Gel fondue fuel is a versatile option and is recommended for making chocolate or cheese fondue. It is safer to handle than liquid alcohol and helps control the burning rate. However, for oil or broth recipes, the other fuel types mentioned above may be more suitable.

Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the fondue fuel specified for your particular fondue burner. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation and take the necessary safety precautions when using any type of fondue pot fuel.

Frequently asked questions