Fondue Plates: A Beginner's Guide To Melty Deliciousness

Fondue plates are an essential accessory for any fondue enthusiast, especially if you're serving chicken or meat fondue. They're designed to give your guests a place to keep their raw and cooked food separate, reducing the risk of food poisoning. Fondue plates come in various colours and shapes, with different compartment layouts to suit your needs and preferences. For instance, some people prefer square plates, while others opt for round ones. These plates typically feature several small compartments, perfect for holding dips and sauces, as well as cooked and raw food items. Fondue plates are an easy way to enhance your fondue experience and elevate your dinner party.

Choosing the right fondue plate

Type of Fondue

The type of fondue you plan to serve will influence the type of plate you choose. For meat fondue, it is essential to have separate sections for raw and cooked meat to ensure food safety. Fondue plates with multiple compartments are ideal for this purpose. If you're serving cheese or chocolate fondue, you may opt for plates with fewer compartments or even a simple dinner plate with small bowls for dips and sauces.

Number of Compartments

Fondue plates come in various designs, with some having as few as two compartments, while others offer up to eight or more sections. The number of compartments you need depends on the number of fondue dips you'll be serving. If you're serving a variety of fondue dips and sauces, opt for a plate with more compartments. If you're serving a simpler fondue with fewer accompaniments, a plate with fewer sections may suffice.

Material and Durability

Fondue plates are made from various materials, including ceramic, stoneware, porcelain, plastic, and stainless steel. Consider the durability of the material, especially if you plan to reuse the plates. Ceramic, stoneware, and porcelain plates are excellent options for heat retention and can be elegant and stylish. Stainless steel plates are durable and easy to clean. Plastic plates are lightweight and affordable but may not be as durable or heat-resistant.

Size and Shape

Fondue plates come in different sizes and shapes, such as round or square. Consider the size of your table and the number of guests you plan to accommodate. Smaller, round plates may be more suitable for intimate gatherings, while larger, square plates can provide more space for multiple compartments.

Color and Design

Fondue plates come in various colors and designs, allowing you to match your kitchen color scheme or the theme of your dinner party. You can opt for classic white plates or choose plates with colorful patterns or designs that add a playful touch to your fondue experience.

Ease of Cleaning

If you want to reuse your fondue plates, consider their ease of cleaning. Some plates may be dishwasher-safe, while others may require hand washing. Additionally, look for plates with smooth surfaces and compartments that are easy to access, making it simpler to clean after your fondue feast.

Remember to consider the type of fondue, the number of compartments you need, the material, size, color, and ease of cleaning when choosing the right fondue plate for your next dinner party.

Using fondue plates for meat

Choosing the Right Fondue Plate and Equipment:

• Look for fondue plates with separate compartments: It is important to have separate areas on the plate to keep raw and cooked meat, especially if you are serving chicken fondue to avoid any risk of food poisoning.
• Fondue pots: Select a metal, enamelware, or cast-iron fondue pot for cooking meat. Ceramic pots are better suited for cheese and chocolate fondues. Ensure your pot has edges that curve inward to prevent splashing.
• Fondue forks: Ensure you have enough long-handled, two-tined fondue forks, preferably colour-coded, so each diner has their own. Alternatively, you can use bamboo skewers, but remember to soak them for 30 minutes before cooking to prevent burning.

Preparing the Meat:

• Meat selection: Choose tender cuts of meat that cook quickly. Avoid cuts that require braising or roasting, as they will become tough and sinewy.
• Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces.
• Marinade: You can marinate the meat pieces to add more flavour. Try a simple marinade of salt, pepper, paprika, and yogurt to tenderise the meat.
• Storage: Keep the meat refrigerated until you are ready to serve and cook it.

Cooking the Meat:

• Cooking liquid: You can use either oil or broth/stock for cooking. Oil is more traditional, with vegetable, canola, grapeseed, and peanut oil being good choices. If using broth, you can infuse it with herbs and spices to add extra flavour.
• Heating the liquid: Heat the cooking liquid in a heavy-bottomed pan on the stovetop to a temperature of around 375°F (190°C). Use a deep-frying thermometer to check.
• Transfer to fondue pot: Carefully transfer the hot liquid to your fondue pot, filling it about one-third to half full. Place the fondue pot on a trivet to protect your table.
• Temperature control: Keep the fondue burner on to maintain the ideal cooking temperature. Re-test the temperature after transferring the liquid to the fondue pot.
• Cooking time: Show your guests how to cook their meat. Skewer a piece of meat, dip it into the hot liquid, and cook for the desired time. For red meat, 30 seconds is rare, 45 seconds medium-rare, and 1 minute is well done. Poultry takes about 2 minutes, while lamb and pork take about 1 minute.
• Serving: Use a regular table fork to remove the cooked meat from the skewer and serve it plain or with a dipping sauce.

Remember to allow about four people per fondue pot, as cooking with too many forks in the pot at once can affect the temperature and cooking process. Enjoy your fondue feast!

Using fondue plates for cheese

Fondue is a fun and social way to enjoy a meal with friends and family. It originated in Switzerland as a way to feed families inexpensively and has since become a popular dish worldwide. Here are some tips for using fondue plates specifically for cheese fondue:

Choosing the Right Plates

Fondue plates typically have multiple compartments, which are ideal for separating different dips and sides. Square plates are preferred by some over round ones, and they come in various colours to match your kitchen or party theme. If you're serving a broth-based fondue, you can place the raw meat on regular plates and let your guests use the compartments on their fondue plates for dips and sides.

Preparing the Cheese

When preparing the cheese for your fondue, it's essential to grate the cheese instead of chopping it. Grated cheese melts faster and more evenly, resulting in a smoother fondue. It's also important to toss the cheese with cornstarch or flour to thicken the fondue and prevent the cheese from clumping.

Selecting the Right Cheese

The best cheeses for fondue are those that melt smoothly and have a buttery, creamy texture. Traditional Swiss cheese fondue uses a blend of firm, mountain-style cheeses such as Gruyere, Emmental, and Appenzeller. Other good choices include Gouda, Fontina, and Raclette.

Dippers and Accompaniments

Bread is the most classic dipper for cheese fondue, especially crusty French bread or baguette cut into cubes. However, you can also offer a variety of other dippers such as steamed broccoli, roasted baby potatoes, sliced apples, and even bacon.

Keeping the Fondue Warm

To maintain the smooth and creamy texture of your cheese fondue, it must be served over heat. If using a fondue pot, keep it on a low heat setting. If using a saucepan, transfer the fondue to a heatproof serving bowl and keep it warm over low heat.

Using fondue plates for chocolate

Fondue plates are a great way to elevate your chocolate fondue experience. Here are some tips for using fondue plates specifically for chocolate fondue:

Choosing the Right Fondue Plate

Fondue plates come in various types, colours, and compartment layouts. When selecting a fondue plate, consider the number of dips you plan to serve. If you're offering several dips and sauces to accompany your chocolate fondue, opt for plates with multiple small compartments. These compartments are perfect for holding different dips and creating a visually appealing presentation. Additionally, some fondue plates have separate sections for raw and cooked food, which is essential if you're serving meat fondue.

Preparing Your Fondue Plate

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary utensils and equipment, including fondue forks, plates, and bowls for your dips. Fondue plates with multiple compartments can be used to hold various treats for dipping, such as fruits, cookies, and candies. You can also use small bowls or place dollops of dips directly on the plate. If you're serving a full meal, you may want to use separate plates for savoury dishes like cheese or meat fondue to avoid mixing sweet and savoury flavours.

Melting the Chocolate

Chocolate fondue is typically made by melting chocolate with heavy cream, resulting in a smooth and rich dessert. You can use a fondue pot, a regular pot, or a microwave to melt the chocolate. If using a fondue pot, adjust the heat setting to low or use a low flame. Avoid letting the fondue simmer or boil, as this can scorch the chocolate and affect its texture. Stir the mixture occasionally during melting. If using a regular pot, place an oven mitt on the table and put the hot pot of melted chocolate on top of it. Return the pot to the stove if the chocolate starts to stiffen, and add a small amount of hot cream to adjust the consistency.

Dipping Treats and Serving

Once your chocolate is melted and smooth, it's time to start dipping! Arrange your chosen treats on a platter or directly on the fondue plates. Popular options include strawberries, bananas, marshmallows, dried fruits, brownies, and pound cake. Use fondue forks, bamboo skewers, or small salad forks to dip the treats into the melted chocolate. If the fondue starts to stiffen, add a small amount of heavy cream to thin it out.

Fondue plates can enhance your chocolate fondue experience by providing a designated space for dips and treats. Remember to be creative, experiment with different treats, and enjoy the interactive and social nature of fondue!

Using fondue plates for dessert

Fondue plates are a great way to elevate your dessert fondue experience. Here are some tips and ideas for using fondue plates specifically for dessert:

Choosing the Right Fondue Plate

Fondue plates come in various shapes, sizes, and colours. You can choose between square or round plates, depending on your preference and the theme of your evening. Look for fondue plates with multiple compartments to separate your dips and treats. Some plates even have a special notch to rest your fondue fork!

Dessert Fondue Ideas

Chocolate fondue is a classic and crowd-pleasing choice. Use high-quality chocolate—milk, dark, or white—and melt it in a fondue pot or mini crockpot. You can also add whipping cream and caramels to make it extra decadent. For a twist on the traditional chocolate fondue, try using caramel, butterscotch, peppermint, or strawberry preserves.

Dippers and Treats

Provide an assortment of dippers and treats for your guests to enjoy with the fondue. Fresh fruit like strawberries, bananas, apples, and mandarin orange slices are excellent choices. Marshmallows, dried fruit, pretzels, cookies, and pastries are also great options. For a special touch, offer toppings like chopped nuts or toasted coconut to roll the dipped treats in.

Fondue Forks and Utensils

Fondue forks are longer than regular dinner forks and usually have wooden handles to prevent burned fingers. They are ideal for cooking meats but can also be used for dipping into chocolate or cheese. If you don't have fondue forks, regular forks can be used for dipping, but be sure not to eat directly from the forks that have been in the oil, broth, or cheese. Use your dinner fork to take the food off the fondue fork and onto your plate.

Hosting a Fondue Party

When hosting a fondue party, it's important to practice beforehand. Familiarize yourself with your fondue pot and how the recipe works. Always have plenty of fuel on hand to keep the fondue warm. Provide separate plates or compartments for raw and cooked foods to avoid cross-contamination. Fondue plates with multiple sections are perfect for this!

Frequently asked questions