Heating Up Fondue: Best Fuel Sources For Your Pot

Fondue is a warm dish that originated in Switzerland in the 18th century. It is typically made by melting at least two types of cheese in a pot, along with wine and flour. The traditional cookware used for fondue is usually made from heavy earthenware, ceramic, or enameled iron, designed to distribute heat evenly. However, there are various types of fondue pots available, including electric versions, which offer adjustable temperature settings and heat more evenly. When preparing a meat fondue, it is important to use a heat source that reaches high temperatures, such as an open flame or a butane burner. For chocolate or dessert fondues, a small tea light or unscented candle is sufficient to keep the mixture warm and melted.

Electric fondue pots

Some popular models include the Cuisinart CFO-32S Electric Fondue Pot, the Nostalgia 1.5-Quart Stainless Steel Electric Fondue Pot, and the Hamilton Beach 12 Cup Electric Fondue Pot Set. These pots offer features such as adjustable temperature dials, non-stick coatings for easy cleaning, and stable bases.

When choosing an electric fondue pot, it is important to consider the size of the pot and the number of people you plan to serve. Smaller pots are better for intimate gatherings, while larger pots are ideal for parties. It is also worth noting that electric fondue pots can be more challenging to clean due to the electrical components, and care should be taken to ensure safe handling and cleaning.

Alcohol or gel burners

Liquid alcohol is a cheap and simple fuel option, but it is dangerous due to its high flammability and spill risk. If you opt for liquid alcohol, never fill the burner while it is still hot, and never overfill it. Always take the burner away from the fondue pot and onto a safe work area, like a kitchen counter, before refilling. Wait for the burner to cool, then carefully pour the liquid into the bottom of the burner. Your burner should have holes or a mesh with an absorbent pad inside. Stop pouring when the liquid level reaches these holes or mesh. Wipe away any spills, and ensure all flammable materials are cleared from the area before lighting.

Gel fuel is a good alternative to liquid alcohol. It can be purchased in cartridges or as a pourable gel. If your burner is compatible with cartridges, it will have a removable bottom half. Insert the cartridge into the metal casing, then return the top half of the burner and light. If your burner is not compatible with cartridges, simply pour the gel directly into the bottom of the burner and light.

Alcohol burners can be adjusted to suit different types of fondue. For chocolate or cheese fondue, use a small flame. Turn up the heat a little for cheese fondue, and use the highest flame for oil or broth recipes.

Tea lights

When using tea lights to heat your fondue pot, it's important to choose the right type of fondue pot and ensure that it is designed to be used with tea lights. The pot should be made of a material that conducts and retains heat well, such as cast iron or ceramic. It's also important to use a tea light that is unscented to avoid altering the flavour of your fondue.

To use a tea light with your fondue pot, simply place the tea light in the base of the pot and light it with a match or lighter. Prepare your fondue on the stovetop using a double boiler or two pots (a small pot placed inside a larger pot of water). Once your fondue is ready, transfer it to the fondue pot, and the tea light will keep it warm.

It's important to note that tea lights may not provide enough heat for larger fondue pots or for fondues that require high temperatures, such as hot oil fondues or broth-based fondues. In these cases, you may need to use a stronger heat source, such as a fondue burner or an electric fondue pot.

Additionally, it's important to follow safety precautions when using tea lights to heat your fondue pot. Always use tea lights in a well-ventilated area and keep flammable materials away from the flame. Make sure to keep an eye on the temperature of your fondue to avoid overheating or burning.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a delicious and safe fondue experience using tea lights to heat your fondue pot.

Open flame heat sources

• Make sure you are using the right type of fondue pot and fuel. Some fondue pots are not suitable for open flame heat sources, so check the manufacturer's instructions before use.
• If you're using a gel fuel burner, follow the safety precautions. Never fill the burner while it's still hot and always wipe up any spills.
• For high-heat fondues like hot oil, broth, or cheese fondue, use a fondue fuel that is suitable for indoor use, such as Fire Dragon Fuel.
• If you're using liquid alcohol as your fuel, be very careful as it is highly flammable and can easily spill. It's also important to note that liquid alcohol cannot be purchased online and must be bought in-store.
• When lighting your burner, make sure all flammable materials are kept away from the flame. Use a long match or lighter to avoid burning yourself.
• Always adjust the air holes on your burner to control the temperature. Larger openings will result in higher heat.
• When you're finished using your fondue pot, simply cover the burner to smother the flame.
• If you've misplaced the burner for your fondue pot, you may be able to use a "Sterno" type burner, which is a fuel-filled container that can be placed under your pot and lit.

Induction hobs

Firstly, induction hobs are known for their ability to heat up quickly and maintain a consistent temperature. This is ideal for fondue, as you want your cheese or chocolate to stay melted and warm throughout your meal. With an induction hob, you won't have to worry about constantly adjusting the heat to maintain the perfect temperature for your fondue.

Another advantage of induction hobs is their safety. Induction technology uses electromagnetic fields to generate heat directly in the fondue pot, so the hob itself does not get hot. This reduces the risk of burns and makes it safer to use, especially if you have children or pets around. Additionally, induction hobs tend to have flat surfaces with no open flames or hot coils, further enhancing their safety.

Fondue pots designed for induction hobs are typically made of heavy-duty stainless steel or cast iron. These materials ensure even heat distribution and long-lasting durability. For example, the Bon Chef Induction Fondue Pot is crafted from commercial-grade stainless steel, making it both durable and easy to clean. It's also worth noting that some induction-compatible fondue pots can also be used in the oven, expanding your cooking options beyond fondue.

When choosing an induction hob for your fondue pot, consider the size and power of the hob. A larger hob with a higher wattage will be able to accommodate larger fondue pots and heat them more efficiently. Additionally, look for induction hobs with safety features such as automatic shut-off and overheating protection.

In summary, induction hobs are an excellent choice for fondue pots due to their quick heating, temperature control, safety features, and compatibility with durable fondue pot materials. They provide a modern and convenient way to enjoy the classic experience of fondue with family and friends.

Frequently asked questions