Delicious Dishes To Pair With Your Oil Fondue

Fondue is a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Oil fondue, in particular, is a unique and engaging dining experience that brings people together and encourages conversation. While it's a simple concept, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Here are some tips and suggestions for what goes well with oil fondue:

Choosing the Right Oil: Select an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, peanut, grapeseed, or sunflower seed oil. These oils have neutral flavours and can withstand the high temperatures required for fondue without burning. Avoid olive oil, as it has a low smoke point and a strong flavour.

Fondue Pot and Equipment: Use a copper, stainless steel, or cast iron fondue pot designed for high heat. Do not use ceramic or stoneware pots. Electric fondue pots are a safe and convenient option, but ensure the cord is safely out of the way. If using a burner, opt for one with a splash guard to prevent hot oil splatters.

Oil Temperature and Safety: Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. Heat the oil to 180-190°C (350-375°F). Use a thermometer or test the temperature with a piece of bread—if it turns golden brown in 30-45 seconds, the oil is ready. Always supervise children around the fondue pot, and be cautious when pouring hot oil.

Ingredients and Dipping Sauces: Meat and seafood are popular choices for oil fondue. Select tender cuts of meat, such as sirloin or tenderloin, and ensure they are dry before dipping to prevent oil splatters. Chicken, shrimp, scallops, and beef are excellent options. For vegetables, the possibilities are endless, but avoid frozen or dense options that may take longer to cook. Provide a variety of dipping sauces to complement the flavours.

Side Dishes: Rice and salad are versatile side dishes that pair well with oil fondue. Steamed vegetables, baked potatoes, and a green salad are also great options to accompany the meal.

Remember to exercise caution when handling hot oil and always supervise children. Oil fondue is a delightful way to connect with loved ones and create memorable dining experiences.

Meats: beef, chicken, shrimp, steak, and meatballs

Fondue is a fun and social way to enjoy a meal, and there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing meats to dip into hot oil. Here are some ideas and instructions to get you started.

Beef

Beef tenderloin or rump steak cut into 1-inch cubes is a great option for beef fondue. Marinating the beef beforehand will infuse it with delicious flavour. A simple marinade can be made by stirring together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, green onion, and herbs. Place the beef in a resealable bag, pour in the marinade, and leave it in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours. Bring the meat to room temperature before cooking.

Chicken

Chicken breast is another good choice for oil fondue. Cut skinless and boneless chicken breasts into 2.5 cm cubes. Prepare a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, chili pepper, basil, oregano, and salt and pepper in a bowl. Beat eggs in a separate bowl. Coat each piece of chicken with the egg, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Refrigerate until it's time to cook.

Shrimp

Shrimp is a great choice for oil fondue because it cooks quickly. Medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, can be cooked in hot oil for 1-2 minutes until it turns pink. It's a good option for vegetarians, and kids will enjoy dipping the shrimp into various sauces.

Steak

Steak is another popular choice for oil fondue. Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes or thin slices. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then carefully place the pieces into the hot oil using fondue spears. Cook until browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Meatballs

Meatballs are a unique and fun option for oil fondue. You can make mini meatballs by mixing together minced onion, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Shape the mixture into 3/4" meatballs, then cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Heat salad oil in a fondue pot to 375°F, spear the meatballs with fondue forks, and place them in the hot oil. Cook until crusty on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Remember to always exercise caution when cooking with hot oil, and enjoy your fondue experience!

Vegetables: broccoli, zucchini, potatoes, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes

Oil Fondue with Vegetables

Oil fondue is a fun and interactive way to enjoy a variety of vegetables, and it's a great option for a casual get-together with friends or a romantic dinner for two. Here are some tips and ideas for creating a delicious oil fondue experience with vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, potatoes, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes.

Broccoli

Instead of steaming or boiling broccoli, try roasting it to bring out its natural sweetness. Cut a head of broccoli into long spears and toss them with extra-virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and salt and pepper. Spread the broccoli on a hot baking sheet and roast in the oven at 450°F for about 15 minutes, turning once, until tender and browned. Serve the roasted broccoli with a light and creamy cheese fondue, such as Fontina cheese fondue.

Zucchini

Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that works well with both cheese and oil fondue. Cut zucchini into bite-sized cubes or slices and dip them into the simmering oil. Zucchini cooks quickly and will result in delicious fried zucchini bites. You can also try it with a Havarti-Cheddar cheese fondue for a buttery and sharp flavour combination.

Potatoes

Potatoes are a classic choice for fondue and can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces. Try new potatoes cut into 1-inch pieces and boiled until just tender. Toss them with extra-virgin olive oil and fresh parsley, and serve with a three-cheese fondue made with cream cheese, Parmesan, and Gruyère. The combination of creamy cheese and tender potatoes is a perfect match.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms, especially dried morel mushrooms, can be a delicious addition to your oil fondue. Rehydrate the morels in dry white wine for 30 minutes, then thinly slice them. You can add the sliced mushrooms directly to your oil fondue for a unique flavour, or create a mushroom cheese fondue by combining them with grated Gruyère cheese and white wine.

Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes, with their sweet and tangy flavour, can also be a tasty addition to your oil fondue spread. Try serving them raw, cut into bite-sized pieces, or cook them down into a fondue with ingredients like onion, celery, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Cherry tomatoes pair well with a variety of cheeses, so feel free to experiment with different fondue recipes.

Remember to have separate plates for raw and cooked food, especially when dealing with raw meats. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetable combinations and dipping sauces to create a fun and flavourful oil fondue experience!

Dipping sauces: mayonnaise with mustard, tomato sauce, salsa, and garlic

When it comes to oil fondue, the options for dipping sauces are endless. A popular choice is to mix mayonnaise with mustard, creating a creamy and tangy sauce that pairs well with the savoury flavours of the fondue. For those who like a bit of spice and tang, adding some salsa to the mayonnaise and mustard mix can be a great option. Alternatively, salsa can be used on its own as a dipping sauce, adding a fresh and flavourful kick to the dish.

Tomato sauce is another classic dipping sauce that can be used for oil fondue. Its sweetness and tanginess can complement the savoury flavours of the meat and vegetables cooked in the oil. For those who enjoy a more intense garlic flavour, a garlic dipping sauce can be a great option. The garlic sauce can be made by mixing garlic with mayonnaise, sour cream, or yoghurt, creating a creamy and flavourful dip.

When preparing these dipping sauces, it is essential to use fresh ingredients and adjust the quantities to your taste preferences. You can also add fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or cilantro to enhance the flavours and create unique combinations.

In addition to these sauces, you can also offer a variety of other condiments and seasonings on the side, such as paprika or chopped herbs, allowing your guests to customise their dips further.

Oils: canola, peanut, grapeseed, olive, and sunflower seed

When it comes to oil fondue, choosing the right oil is essential as it will significantly impact the flavour of your fondue. The best oils for fondue have high smoke points, so you want to avoid oils with low smoke points, such as olive oil and vegetable oil. Here is some more information about canola, peanut, grapeseed, olive, and sunflower seed oils for your fondue:

Canola Oil

Canola oil is a great choice for fondue because it is affordable and has a high smoke point of 400°F. It is sourced from rapeseeds and has a light flavour and a neutral taste, making it a good option for those who do not want their fondue to be flavoured by the oil. It is also a healthier option as it is low in saturated fats.

Peanut Oil

Peanut oil is one of the best oils for fondue because it has a high smoke point of 450°F and does not overpower the taste of your food. It is a vegetable oil derived from peanuts and is one of the most popular oils in the United States, used in many different types of cooking. It has a mild flavour that will not overpower your food, and it is also affordable. However, if you are allergic to nuts, you should choose another oil.

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil has the highest smoke point of all common oils at 420°F, making it an excellent choice for fondue. It is also the healthiest option and has a light, fruity flavour that will not be overbearing on your meats. It is highly polyunsaturated, meaning it is a healthy choice, and it does not contain any trans fats and is low in saturated fat. However, some people may not enjoy the fruity flavour.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is widely available and has a rich flavour that will not be overpowered by other foods you are dipping into the pot. It has monounsaturated fat, which means it has a higher smoke point than other oils, and it is less likely to break down and spoil when heated. However, olive oil has a lower smoke point than other oils used for fondue, so it is important to watch the temperature of your fondue pot carefully. Extra virgin olive oil is a slightly healthier option and has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for a lighter fondue with a savoury flavour.

Sunflower Seed Oil

Sunflower oil is affordable, has a high smoke point of 450°F, and is widely available, making it a great choice for fondue. It is a vegetable oil derived from sunflower seeds and is one of the most popular oils in the United States. It has a slightly nutty flavour that can enhance meat recipes, but it is usually less expensive than other types of oils, such as olive oil. However, the flavour may sometimes be noticeable in the food, so if you plan on making a meat or vegetable fondue, you may want to use a different type of oil.

Sides: rice, salad, bread, and boiled potatoes

When it comes to oil fondue, there are endless possibilities for sides. Here are some ideas for rice, salad, bread, and boiled potatoes:

Rice

Rice is a versatile side dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways to complement your oil fondue. For a simple option, prepare steamed rice and offer a selection of toppings, such as chopped herbs, spices, or fried shallots, to add texture and flavour. Alternatively, create a rice pilaf by sautéing rice in butter or oil before adding broth or water for a more flavourful dish. You could also make a rice salad by mixing cooked rice with chopped vegetables, a tangy dressing, and fresh herbs for a refreshing side option.

Salad

Salads are a refreshing counterpart to the rich flavours of oil fondue. Opt for a classic garden salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette. Or, for a heartier option, include grains such as quinoa or farro, roasted vegetables, and a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. To add a unique twist, incorporate seasonal ingredients, such as roasted butternut squash or beets, and top with a variety of nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Bread

Bread is a classic side for fondue, perfect for dipping and soaking up all the delicious flavours. A crusty baguette or sourdough loaf is always a good choice, offering a chewy texture and a rustic flavour. For a softer option, try brioche or challah bread, which have a rich, buttery taste. To elevate your bread selection, offer a variety of options, including pretzel bread, garlic bread, or herb-infused focaccia.

Boiled Potatoes

Potatoes are an excellent choice for fondue, providing a creamy texture and a satisfying bite. When boiling potatoes, opt for waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or Charlotte, which hold their shape well. Be sure to cut them into bite-sized cubes or wedges, ensuring even cooking. Season the water generously with salt to enhance their flavour. Drain and slightly cool the potatoes before serving, and consider offering a variety of dipping sauces, such as mustard, aioli, or salsa, to take your potato side to the next level.

With these sides, you're well on your way to a delightful and indulgent oil fondue experience!

Frequently asked questions