Cheese Fondue: Best Dipping Foods To Try

Cheese fondue is a fun, communal dish that can be served at parties or get-togethers. While crusty bread is the most popular item to dip into cheese fondue, there are many other foods that can be dipped into this melty mix. From crunchy vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and cauliflower to juicy meats like meatballs, sausages, and poached chicken, the possibilities are endless. For those with a sweet tooth, fruits like apples, pears, and grapes can also be dipped into the cheese fondue. So, the next time you're hosting a fondue party, don't be afraid to get creative with your dippers!

Bread

Other types of bread can also be used for dipping, such as French bread, pumpernickel, or multigrain baguette. If you're feeling ambitious, you can even make your own bread to dip!

When preparing your bread for dipping, cut it into 1-inch cubes or slices. This size makes it easy to skewer the bread and dip it into the fondue.

In addition to bread, there are many other foods that go well with cheese fondue. Some people like to dip apples, broccoli, cauliflower, or meat into the cheese. Others enjoy using their fingers when no one is looking!

Vegetables (e.g. broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, carrots, asparagus)

Vegetables are a fantastic choice to dip in cheese fondue. They add a bit of freshness to the rich, gooey cheese and are a healthier alternative to other dippers.

Broccoli and cauliflower are popular choices and can be enjoyed either raw or lightly steamed. Raw broccoli adds a crunchy texture, while steaming it first can smooth out bitter flavours.

Bell peppers are another great option for dipping in fondue. They are naturally sweet, and their bright colours make for a vibrant addition to your fondue spread. Slice them into strips and dunk away!

Carrots are basically made for fondue dipping. Enjoy them raw for a crunchy snack, or roast them with a hint of salt and pepper for extra flavour and a softer texture.

Asparagus is another vegetable that pairs well with cheese fondue. You can roast, pickle, steam, or enjoy them raw, depending on your preference.

Other vegetables that can be dipped in cheese fondue include artichoke hearts, baby potatoes, mushrooms, green beans, and cherry tomatoes.

So, whether you're looking for a healthy option or just wanting to add some colour and freshness to your fondue spread, these vegetables are sure to please!

Fruit (e.g. apples, pears, grapes)

Fruit is a fantastic choice to dip in a cheese fondue, especially apples, pears, and grapes.

Apples are a very popular choice for dipping in cheese fondue. Tart apples such as Granny Smith apples are a favourite, as their crispness and tartness complement the creaminess of the fondue nicely. Apples can be cut into slices or cubes to make them easier to spear and dip.

Pears are another great option, especially Bosc pears, which have nutmeg and cinnamon undertones that bring out the spices found in many fondues.

Grapes, specifically seedless grapes, are also a good choice for dipping in cheese fondue. They are small enough to be easily speared and dipped, and their sweet flavour will pair well with the cheese.

Other fruits that could be considered for dipping in cheese fondue include strawberries, bananas, and marshmallows, though these may be less traditional choices.

So, if you're looking for a sweet and savoury combination, consider dipping apples, pears, or grapes in your next cheese fondue!

Meat (e.g. meatballs, chicken, sausage)

Meat is a great option for dipping in cheese fondue, especially meatballs, chicken, and sausage.

Meatballs are a versatile side dish that can be paired with cheese fondue. You can use a skewer to dip them in the fondue or pour the cheese on top, creating a delicious, cheesy meatball delicacy. If you want to make "mini meatballs," mix the ingredients, shape them into 3/4" meatballs, and refrigerate until use. When ready, heat oil in a fondue pot, spear the meatballs with fondue forks, and cook until crusty on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Chicken is another excellent option for your cheese fondue. Poached chicken breasts can be paired with various cheeses and spices, and dipping chicken pieces in a cheesy fondue can be a tasty treat. You can also add herbs and spices to the chicken for extra flavour.

Sausage is a perfect meat choice for fondue, especially authentic sweet Italian sausage, which pairs amazingly well with savoury cheese. You can easily cut the sausage into smaller pieces for dipping. To add a touch of extra flavour, you can choose from a variety of sausages, such as chorizo or spicy chicken sausage.

When it comes to meat options for your cheese fondue, meatballs, chicken, and sausage are all delicious choices that will surely impress your guests.

Pickles

For a fun twist, try dipping other pickled vegetables in cheese fondue, such as onions or gherkins. The briny flavour of pickled vegetables pairs exceptionally well with the richness of the cheese.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different types of pickles, such as those made with unique spices or brines. The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating flavour combinations that tantalise your taste buds.

So, go ahead and give it a try! The combination of pickles and cheese fondue might just become your new favourite indulgent snack.

Frequently asked questions