The Perfect Pairings For Swiss Cheese Fondue

Swiss cheese fondue is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even dessert. It is traditionally made with dry white wine and is best served with a variety of dippers such as bread, fruits, vegetables, and meats.

Bread is a classic pairing with Swiss cheese fondue, as it soaks up the warm, creamy cheese. Popular choices include French baguettes, sourdough, breadsticks, bagels, croutons, and pretzels. To prevent the bread from falling apart in the fondue, it is important to toast it slightly before dipping.

Fruits such as apples, pears, and grapes also complement Swiss cheese fondue well. The crisp and tart Granny Smith apples add a nice contrast to the creaminess of the fondue, while Bosc pears' nutmeg and cinnamon undertones bring out the spices often found in the dish.

When it comes to vegetables, steamed broccoli and cauliflower are excellent choices as they add a bit of freshness to the rich and creamy fondue. Raw or steamed bell peppers are also a colourful and tasty addition, and their natural sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the savoury cheese.

Meat lovers can enjoy dipping meats such as chicken, steak, meatballs, shrimp, and sausage into their Swiss cheese fondue. Poached chicken, in particular, makes for a great blank canvas to be dressed up with the cheesy goodness.

So, whether you are enjoying Swiss cheese fondue as an appetizer or a main course, there are plenty of delicious options to dip into this warm and comforting dish.

Bread

There are many types of bread that can be paired with fondue. French baguettes, sourdough, breadsticks, bagels, croutons, and pretzels are all popular choices. Whichever option you choose, it is important to slightly toast the bread first to prevent it from falling apart when dipped in the fondue.

If you want to get creative, you can even make your own bread specifically for dipping. Freshly baked baguettes or a simple, no-knead peasant bread can be a fun project and will surely impress your guests.

For a more convenient option, you can simply pick up a loaf of sourdough or another type of crusty bread from the store. This will still provide the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that cheesy goodness.

In addition to the type of bread, you can also experiment with different shapes and sizes. Cubes of French bread or bite-sized pieces of baguette can be easy to dip and provide a nice presentation.

So, when it comes to bread and Swiss cheese fondue, the options are endless. Just remember to toast your bread slightly and choose a variety that is sturdy enough to withstand the weight of the cheese without falling apart. Now, go ahead and dip that bread into the warm, creamy Swiss cheese fondue and enjoy!

Meat

Sausage

Sausage is a versatile meat that pairs well with Swiss cheese fondue. Authentic sweet Italian sausage is an excellent choice, as the savoury cheese will complement the sweetness of the sausage. Other types of sausage, such as chorizo or spicy chicken sausage, can also be used to add a kick of flavour. To make dipping easier, cut the sausage into smaller pieces or bite-sized chunks.

Chicken

Poached or roasted chicken breast is a perfect option for those looking for a lean protein to dip into their Swiss cheese fondue. The mild flavour of chicken acts as a blank canvas, allowing the flavours of the fondue to shine. Add herbs and spices to the chicken for extra flavour and variety.

Steak

For a heartier option, steak strips or bites can be dipped into Swiss cheese fondue for a decadent treat. Look for steak cuts that are suitable for quick cooking, such as filet mignon. Pairing steak with Swiss cheese fondue creates a luxurious cheesesteak experience.

Seafood

For seafood lovers, shrimp is an excellent choice to elevate Swiss cheese fondue. Grilled, roasted, sautéed, or fried shrimp can be dipped into the fondue for a unique and fancy experience. Cooking the shrimp with minced garlic and chopped parsley will add an extra flavour boost.

Salami

Cured meats like salami go well with Swiss cheese fondue. The salty and spicy notes of salami complement the creamy and rich fondue. Salami can be scrunched up on a fondue skewer and dipped into the cheese for a tasty bite.

When serving meat with Swiss cheese fondue, it is important to ensure that the meat is cooked and prepared in advance. This is because the fondue itself does not cook the meat, but rather enhances its flavour. Additionally, it is crucial to use high-quality meat options to elevate the overall dining experience.

Vegetables

When it comes to vegetables, there are plenty of options to accompany your Swiss cheese fondue. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Preparation

Before deciding on the types of vegetables to include, it's worth noting that almost any vegetable goes well with cheese. You can decide to roast, steam, sauté, or serve them raw. If you're going for cooked vegetables, it's best to partially cook them, and they should be cut into bite-sized pieces or strips for easier dipping.

Vegetable Options

• Asparagus
• Broccoli
• Bell peppers
• Brussels sprouts
• Cauliflower
• Carrots
• Green beans
• Radishes
• Baby potatoes (Yukon Gold, fingerling, red, or purple varieties)
• Artichoke hearts
• Mushrooms (crimini, shiitake, oyster, or portobellos)
• Celery
• Fennel spears
• Cherry tomatoes
• Pickled vegetables (such as pearl onions, pickles, or sweet gherkins)
• Zucchini

Fruits

When it comes to choosing fruits to accompany Swiss cheese fondue, apples and pears are the most popular choices. The crunchy, crisp tartness of apples creates a perfect match with the melted cheese, and it makes for a delicious snack or appetiser. Granny Smith apples are particularly recommended, as their crispness and tartness complement the fondue's creaminess.

Pears, specifically Bosc pears, are another excellent option, as their nutmeg and cinnamon undertones bring out the spices commonly found in fondues. Sliced or cubed, pears are a great way to add a touch of sweetness and flavour to your fondue experience.

For a truly indulgent and luxurious experience, consider adding some fresh, juicy oranges or sweet apricots to your fondue spread. The citrusy burst of oranges can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese, while apricots offer a similar sweetness to pears.

Grapes are another fruity option that can be easily skewered and dipped into the warm, creamy cheese. Their natural sweetness and juicy burst can complement the savoury flavours of the fondue.

So, when planning your next fondue night, be sure to include a variety of fruits, such as apples, pears, oranges, apricots, and grapes, to create a well-rounded and delectable experience for you and your guests.

Salads

Green Salad with Apples and Walnuts

A crisp green salad with apples and walnuts can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy fondue. The tartness of the apples will complement the Swiss cheese, while walnuts will add a crunchy texture. You can use a variety of greens such as mixed salad leaves, arugula, or baby spinach. For the dressing, a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt and pepper will do the trick.

Roasted Vegetable Salad

A roasted vegetable salad can add a nice smoky flavour to your meal. You can roast vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and onions. Drizzle them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting. Once roasted, toss them with mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. The roasted vegetables will provide a nice contrast in temperature and add a depth of flavour to your meal.

Fruit Salad with a Twist

A fruit salad can be a refreshing option to pair with Swiss cheese fondue. You can use a variety of fruits such as apples, pears, grapes, and berries. To add a savoury twist, include some crumbled feta cheese, chopped walnuts or pecans, and a balsamic glaze. The sweetness of the fruit and the salty feta will create an interesting flavour combination.

Classic Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad is always a good option to serve alongside Swiss cheese fondue. The crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and savoury dressing provide a nice contrast to the fondue. You can make your own dressing using olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, and anchovy paste. Don't forget to add some shaved Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch!

Broccoli Salad

A broccoli salad can be a delicious and healthy option to serve with Swiss cheese fondue. Blanch or lightly steam the broccoli florets to retain their crunch. Then, mix them with chopped red onions, dried cranberries or raisins, sunflower seeds or chopped nuts, and a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing. The sweetness of the dried fruit and the crunch of the nuts or seeds will complement the broccoli nicely.

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