Cheese Fondue: Dipping Options Beyond Bread And Meat

Cheese fondue is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of foods for dipping. While bread is a classic pairing, there are many other options to explore. For a savoury fondue, consider roasted potatoes, steamed broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, meatballs, steak cubes, seafood, cured meats, or even pickles. For a sweeter take, try dipping fruit slices such as apples, pears, or citrus wedges. Get creative and elevate your fondue experience with a variety of dippers!

Bread

Crusty bread is usually the number one pick for cheese fondue because it is the best at soaking up all the cheesy goodness. Bread is also a safe option for those who are not adventurous eaters and would rather not eat a vat of molten cheese by itself.

If you want to get creative, you can also dip different types of bread in your fondue, such as pretzels or crackers, though these are less traditional and less suitable for forking, requiring dipping by hand.

Vegetables

If you're looking for vegetables to serve raw, celery, fennel spears, carrots, and cherry tomatoes are all good options. You could also serve pickled vegetables like pearl onions, pickles, and sweet gherkins, but be sure to pat them dry first.

Some vegetables are better off lightly steamed or roasted. You could try broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, carrots, zucchini, green beans, pearl onions, radishes, baby potatoes, or eggplant.

For a quick option, you can serve vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower raw, but many people prefer them uncooked.

Meat

Cooked Meat

Fully cooked meat options are a great way to add protein and make your fondue a complete meal. Here are some ideas:

• Steak cubes: Juicy steak cubes, especially filet mignon, can be a delicious addition to your fondue. Skewer a piece of bread and steak, dip it into the fondue, and you've got a bite-sized, cheesy burger.
• Meatballs: Whether they're made of beef, chicken, or vegetarian-friendly ingredients, meatballs are exceptionally tasty after a quick dip in the melty, magical cheese fondue.
• Roasted chicken: Poached or roasted chicken breast can be a great blank canvas for the fondue's flavours to shine. It's an excellent option if you're looking for a leaner meat option.
• Sausage: Sliced cooked sausage, such as hot dogs or cured sausages like salami, goes well with the cheese fondue.
• Bacon: Crispy, baked bacon can be a unique and indulgent option to dip in the fondue. Just be careful when skewering it, as it might break off in the pot.
• Ham: Cooked ham, especially when paired with melted cheese, can be a delightful addition to your fondue spread.

Seafood

Seafood is another great option for dipping in cheese fondue, especially if you're looking for something lighter and more elegant. Here are some ideas:

• Shrimp: Grilled or lightly sautéed shrimp, especially when cooked with garlic and parsley, can be a perfect pairing with a bold cheese fondue.
• Scallops: Like shrimp, scallops are a great choice for seafood fondue, offering a delicate flavour and texture.
• Lobster: Lightly steamed lobster can be an indulgent and luxurious option for your fondue.
• Crab: Steamed crab can be a wonderful addition to your fondue spread, offering a sweet and delicate flavour.

When choosing meat options for your cheese fondue, remember to fully cook the meat before dipping it into the fondue. Additionally, consider offering a variety of meat options to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Seafood

Shrimp

Lightly grilled or roasted shrimp is a fantastic choice for dipping in cheese fondue. The natural sweetness of the shrimp pairs well with the boldness of a cheese fondue, especially one made with brandy or white wine. For an extra kick of flavour, cook the shrimp with some minced garlic and chopped parsley before dipping.

Crab, Lobster, and Scallops

Much like shrimp, crab, lobster, and scallops are also delicious options for a seafood cheese fondue. The sweetness of the seafood pairs well with the creaminess of the fondue. Try using a combination of these seafood options for a decadent and luxurious fondue experience.

Fish

Strips of juicy, perfectly cooked filet mignon can be elevated by dipping them in cheese fondue. Skewer a piece of bread and filet, dip it in the fondue, and you've got yourself a fancy, bite-sized treat.

Prawns

Large, juicy prawns can also be a great option for dipping in cheese fondue. They have a similar texture to shrimp but with a slightly sweeter taste, making them a perfect match for the savoury cheesiness of the fondue.

Oysters

While not traditionally dipped in cheese fondue, oysters could be an interesting and unique option. The briny, salty taste of oysters might pair well with a strong, sharp cheese fondue. It might be worth experimenting with different types of oysters and cheeses to find the perfect combination.

When preparing a seafood cheese fondue, it's important to consider the type of cheese used. A strong, bold cheese such as Gruyère, cheddar, or gouda would pair well with the delicate taste of seafood. Additionally, consider adding some spices, garlic, and a splash of alcohol like dry white wine or brandy to enhance the flavour of the fondue.

Fruit

Apples

Apples are a popular choice for cheese fondue, especially tart varieties like Granny Smith apples. Their crispness and tartness complement the creaminess of the fondue nicely.

Pears

Pears, such as Bosc pears, are another excellent option for fruit fondue. Their nutmeg and cinnamon undertones bring out the spices often found in many cheese fondues.

Oranges and Tangerines

Zesty and sweet citruses like oranges and tangerines can also be a delightful addition to your fondue spread. Cut them into thick wedges to make them easier to dip.

Apricots, Nectarines, and Peaches

If you prefer sweeter fruit options, apricots, nectarines, and peaches can be excellent choices for cheese fondue. Just make sure to choose firmer fruits rather than ripe and mushy ones for the best dipping experience.

Grapes

Grapes are another fruit that pairs well with cheese. Their small size makes them perfect for popping into your mouth after a quick dip in the fondue.

So, go ahead and get creative with your fruit choices for your next cheese fondue night! Just remember to select fruits with the right texture and firmness to ensure they hold up well when dipped in that delicious, melted cheese.

Frequently asked questions