Easy Steps To Using Your Fondue Set

Fondue is a fun and social way to enjoy a meal. It can be used to cook meat or seafood, or to prepare different types of dipping sauces for almost any type of food. Fondue can be served as an appetiser, main course, or dessert.

There are a few things to keep in mind when preparing fondue. Firstly, it is important to choose the right type of fondue pot. Ceramic fondue pots are typically used for preparing cheese and chocolate fondues that do not require high heat. Metal fondue pots are used for fondues that require high heat, such as meat and seafood. Enamel cast iron fondue pots can be used for any type of fondue.

Secondly, it is important to prepare the ingredients properly. For meat and seafood, wash and cut the food into bite-sized pieces. Arrange raw meat and vegetables on separate plates to avoid cross-contamination and refrigerate until ready to cook. Before placing the ingredients into the fondue pot, ensure they are thoroughly dried to prevent dangerous splattering.

Finally, it is important to follow safety procedures when using a fondue set. Most fondue sets use alcohol burners with liquid alcohol fuel or gel packets containing gelatinised alcohol fuel. Always use a lighted match to ignite the fuel and be sure to cover the burner when finished to extinguish the flame. Do not leave the fondue pot unattended and keep a close eye on children. If a fire erupts, do not use water to put it out as this will spread the fire. Instead, use a lid to cover the container and cut off the oxygen supply.

How to prepare your fondue pot

Before using your fondue pot for the first time, remove all labels from the product. If necessary, use a mild detergent to clean the pot carefully.

If you are using an open flame heat source, such as sterno, cook your fondue on the stovetop first and then transfer it to the fondue pot. This will ensure that your fondue stays at an even temperature without overcooking. Electric fondue pots are another option, and they tend to heat more evenly.

If you are preparing a cheese fondue, rub the inside of the pot with a garlic clove before adding the cheese mixture. This will add flavour to your dish. You can also add wine to your cheese fondue, which will help to keep the cheese from sticking to the pot and add flavour. If you are using an alcohol burner, fill the burner base with 2-3 ounces of fuel. Use 2 ounces for 1 hour of burning time, and up to 3 ounces for 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Always start your fondue on a gentle heat and increase the flame slowly. If you are making a cheese fondue, add your ingredients one at a time, stirring regularly.

Five minutes before your fondue is ready, take the stand and burner to the table and light it. Place the fondue pot on top and leave it there throughout the meal. Use a trivet to protect your table from the hot fondue pot.

How to light your fondue burner

To light your fondue burner, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure you are using the right type of fondue pot and fondue fuel. Alcohol fondue fuel, gel fuel fondue, and fire starters suitable for indoor use are all good options. If you opt for liquid alcohol, be aware that it is highly flammable and can be dangerous due to its spillability. Fondue gel fuel is generally a safer option.

Next, take the burner away from the fondue pot and place it in a safe area, such as the kitchen counter. If you are refilling the burner, wait for it to cool down completely before carefully pouring the liquid fuel into the bottom of the burner. Stop pouring when the liquid reaches the holes or mesh inside the burner.

Wipe away any spilled fuel from the burner and the surrounding area. Place the refilled burner under the fondue pot, ensuring that all flammable materials are kept away. Open the air holes to the maximum setting and carefully light the burner with a match. Once lit, adjust the openings to your desired temperature.

If you are using gel fuel, you may need to remove the bottom half of the burner and insert a gel cartridge or pour the gel directly into the burner, depending on the type of burner you have.

If you are using a candlelit fondue, simply light a small unscented tea light under the fondue pot to keep your dessert fondue warm and liquefied.

How to cook with different types of fondue pots

Fondue is a fun and interactive dining experience, perfect for small groups or romantic meals. There are several types of fondue pots available, each with its own advantages and suitable for different recipes. Here is a guide to help you cook with different types of fondue pots:

Ceramic Fondue Pot

Ceramic fondue pots are ideal for preparing cheese and chocolate fondues that do not require high heat. They heat up slowly and retain a constant temperature, making them perfect for melting chocolate or cheese without burning. Ceramic pots are easy to clean and are usually dishwasher-safe. However, they may not be suitable for recipes that require high heat, such as meat or seafood fondue.

Metal Fondue Pot

Metal fondue pots are suitable for high-heat cooking, such as meat and seafood fondues. They can also be used for cheese fondues if the heat source is regulated at a lower temperature. Metal pots retain heat for a long time but may not distribute heat evenly, which can be a problem for delicate recipes like chocolate or cheese fondue.

Enamel Cast Iron Fondue Pot

Enamel cast iron fondue pots are versatile and can be used for any type of fondue. They heat up quickly and retain heat for a long time. These pots are perfect for high-heat recipes like meat and seafood fondue, as well as low-heat recipes like cheese and chocolate fondue. However, they may be more expensive than other types of fondue pots.

Electric Fondue Pot

Electric fondue pots are convenient and easy to use. They have adjustable temperature settings, making them suitable for various recipes. Electric fondue pots are safe to use and eliminate the need for open flames or fuel. However, they require a power outlet nearby and may have shorter cords, limiting their placement on a table.

Butane Fondue Burner

Butane fondue burners are a newer option on the market. They are suitable for recipes like beef fondue, broth, or cheese fondue. However, they are not recommended for delicate recipes like chocolate fondue. Butane burners offer adjustable heat settings, allowing for a wide range of fondue possibilities.

Individual-Sized Fondue Pot

These small fondue pots are perfect for individual servings or a small group. They typically hold around 12 ounces of fondue, making them great for appetizers or intimate gatherings. If you're hosting a larger crowd, consider investing in a larger pot or multiple pots.

When choosing a fondue pot, consider the type of fondue you want to make, the number of people you will be serving, and your preferred heat source. Always follow the safety instructions and never leave the pot unattended. Now you're ready to host a fondue dinner party and impress your guests with your culinary skills!

How to prepare and cook food for dipping

When preparing food for dipping, it's important to keep all foods bite-sized. Here are some ideas for foods to dip in different types of fondue:

Fondue Bourguignon

This involves cooking meat and raw vegetables in oil. Cut your chosen vegetables and meat into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on separate plates to avoid cross-contamination. Refrigerate the ingredients until you're ready to cook. Before placing the ingredients into a hot fondue pot, ensure the meat and vegetables are adequately dried to avoid dangerous splattering.

Cheese fondue

Cheese fondue is a simple dish—a pot of melted cheese and wine—and people can dip almost anything into it. Bread is the most popular dipper, but you can also dip vegetables, cured meats, and even fruit. Here are some more specific ideas:

• Crusty bread
• Broccoli and cauliflower
• Bell peppers
• Roasted potatoes
• Meatballs
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Filet mignon
• Pickles
• Shrimp
• Salami, prosciutto, chorizo, or soppressata
• Poached chicken
• Large pasta shapes
• Apples and pears
• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Bacon
• Roasted baby potatoes
• Steamed broccoli
• Cornichons
• French, sourdough, or pumpernickel bread
• Apples
• Cherry tomatoes
• Red bell pepper
• Carrots
• Mushrooms
• Asparagus
• Cauliflower
• Button mushrooms
• Pears

Chocolate fondue

For chocolate fondue, choose a chocolate with a cocoa solid content above 50%. The chocolate and cream mixture needs to be heated over a double burner, constantly stirring. Once the mixture is nice and creamy, it's time to transfer it to the fondue pot before serving. A small amount of heat is then required to keep the dish warm in the container. You can use a tea light for this.

Dipping foods to avoid

• Fresh bread and cake can crumble easily, so it's better to use bread and cake that's a day old.
• If you're using potato, chunks are better than chips, which are likely to fall apart.

How to clean your fondue set

Before you start cleaning your fondue set, make sure that it has cooled down completely. This is important for your safety, to prevent burns.

If you have any leftover oil in the pot, do not pour it down the drain. Instead, pour it into a container, seal, and throw it in the trash.

There are a few different methods you can use to clean your fondue pot:

• Fill the pot with warm water, a dishwasher tablet, or a dash of dish soap. Heat it on the stove until it reaches a boil, then empty the pot and use a paper towel to remove any remaining residue.
• Empty the pot and fill it with ice-cold water, a dishwasher tablet, or a dash of dish soap. Let it soak for 30 minutes, then empty the pot and use a paper towel to remove the residue.
• Heat a pot of water on the stove until it is almost boiling. Add a few drops of dishwashing liquid to the fondue pot while it's in the sink, then add the heated water. Fill the pot with enough water to cover it completely. Let the pot sit for 10 minutes, or overnight if there is burnt-on food. Check periodically to see if the food is loosening. Empty the water, then use a scrub brush or sponge to remove any remaining residue. Wash the pot in hot, soapy water, then rinse and dry.

If you are cleaning a ceramic fondue pot, it is dishwasher-safe, so you can put it in the dishwasher. For the burner, use a damp cloth to wipe down the outer surface. If there are any stains, use a stainless-steel cleaner and soft sponge to clean it.

Always clean your fondue set with warm water and dish soap, unless the instructions state that it is dishwasher-safe. Never use harsh brushes, abrasive materials, or aggressive cleaning products, as these could damage the surface of your fondue pot.

Frequently asked questions