Fondue Pan: A Beginner's Guide To This Fun Cooking Method

Fondue is a Swiss dish that typically consists of melted cheese and wine served in a communal pot, or 'caquelon', over a portable stove heated by a candle or spirit lamp. Fondue sets, which include the pot, stove, and long-stemmed forks, are used to prepare and serve the dish. The word 'fondue' comes from the French verb 'fondre', meaning 'to melt'.

Since the 1950s, the term 'fondue' has been used to refer to other dishes where food is dipped into a communal pot of liquid, such as chocolate fondue, where fruit or pastry is dipped into melted chocolate, or fondue bourguignonne, where pieces of meat are cooked in hot oil or broth. Fondue sets are available in different sizes, depending on the number of people using them, and can be made from materials such as ceramic, stainless steel, or cast iron.

Fondue pan materials

Fondue pots are made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and considerations. Here are the most common materials used for fondue pots:

Ceramic Fondue Pots

Ceramic fondue pots, like the Kuhn Rikon Classic Fondue Pot, are traditional in Switzerland and known for their elegant appearance. They are often made of high-quality ceramic, porcelain, or clay, which provides excellent heat retention and even cooking. Ceramic fondue pots are ideal for cheese fondue as they prevent the cheese from sticking or becoming clumpy. They are also versatile and can be used for other dishes like mac and cheese. However, it's important to note that ceramic fondue pots may require special care and gentle cleaning to avoid scratching or damaging the surface.

Cast Iron Fondue Pots

Cast iron fondue pots, such as the Swissmar Lugano 9-Piece Cheese Fondue Set, are known for their durability and heat retention properties. They can withstand high temperatures, making them suitable for meat fondue, cheese fondue, and chocolate fondue. The cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution, preventing hotspots and burning. Additionally, cast iron fondue pots often feature an enamel coating, providing a smooth, non-stick surface that makes cleaning easier. These pots are versatile and can be used on stovetops, in ovens, and for serving warm dishes.

Stainless Steel Fondue Pots

Stainless steel fondue pots, like the Nostalgia 1.5-Quart Stainless Steel Electric Fondue Pot, offer a combination of durability and affordability. They are known for their sturdy construction and ability to retain heat effectively. Stainless steel fondue pots often feature a non-stick interior coating, making them easy to clean and suitable for various types of fondue, including cheese, chocolate, broth, and oil. Additionally, they usually come with variable temperature controls, allowing for precise heating adjustments.

Electric Fondue Pots

Electric fondue pots, such as the Cuisinart Electric Fondue Pot, offer convenience and precise temperature control. They are ideal for those seeking an easy-to-use option without the need for an open flame or fuel. Electric fondue pots typically feature adjustable heat settings, making them versatile for different types of fondue. They are also safe to use on any surface without the risk of damaging tables or countertops. However, it's important to note that electric fondue pots may have shorter power cords, requiring careful setup considerations.

Glass Fondue Pots

Glass fondue pots, like the Crate & Barrel Glass and Ceramic Fondue Set, offer a unique advantage: the ability to see the contents clearly. This feature helps prevent burning or overcooking the fondue as you can easily monitor the melting process. Glass fondue pots are often microwave and dishwasher-safe, making them convenient for preparation and cleanup. They are perfect for chocolate fondue, allowing you to gauge when the chocolate is fully melted without burning.

What to cook in a fondue pan

Fondue pans are a fun and interactive way to cook and serve food. While they are most commonly used for cheese or chocolate fondue, there are many other dishes you can cook in a fondue pan. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Soups and Dips

Fondue pans are great for heating up broth or frozen homemade soup. You can also use your fondue pot to keep dips, sauces, or chilli warm while serving.

Deep Frying

An electric fondue pot can be used for small-batch deep frying. Fill the pot with oil and fry foods such as onion rings, calamari, mini donuts, tempura, or latkes. Keep the oil level low and fry in small batches to avoid hot oil splatter.

Appetizers and Snacks

Fondue pots are perfect for keeping appetizers and snacks warm. You can also use your fondue pot to make "campfire" s'mores. Simply melt chocolate in the pot and hold skewered marshmallows over the heat to soften them. Then spread the melted chocolate and marshmallow on a graham cracker.

Hot Pot and Shabu-Shabu

Your fondue pot is ideal for Asian-style hot pot cooking, such as Shabu-Shabu, Steamboat, and Mongolian Hot Pot. Boil water or broth in the fondue pot and add thin slices of meat and vegetables. Beef, tofu, mushrooms, and pea shoots work particularly well.

Drinks

In addition to food, you can also use your fondue pot to make tea or coffee. Boil water in the pot and add instant coffee or tea bags.

So, there you have it! Fondue pans are versatile and can be used for much more than just fondue. Get creative and experiment with different dishes in your fondue pan.

Fondue pan capacity

Fondue is an interactive dining experience that is best shared with friends or family. The capacity of the fondue pot you choose will depend on how many people you want to serve and what type of fondue you want to make.

Fondue sets typically come with fondue forks, and the number of people that a set is suitable for is usually indicated by the number of included forks. However, the capacity of the pan is also important to consider. For example, a 1-litre fondue pot may include four fondue forks, but with this capacity, you could fondue with six people.

Fondue pots range in capacity from 1.5 quarts to 3 quarts. The size of the pot you choose will depend on how many people you want to serve and what type of fondue you want to make. If you want to have fondue parties or have a big family, a large pot makes more sense. If you're using fondue as an appetizer or for a couple, a smaller pot might be better.

• The Cuisinart Electric Fondue Pot has a 3-quart capacity and is suitable for chocolate, cheese, broth, or oil fondue.
• The Nostalgia 1.5-Quart Stainless Steel Electric Fondue Pot holds up to six cups and is suitable for chocolate or cheese fondue.
• The Swissmar Sierra Iron Fondue has a 1.6-quart capacity and is designed for meat fondue but can also be used for cheese or chocolate.
• The Cuisinart 13-Piece Cast Iron Fondue Set has a small capacity of 1.5 quarts and is suitable for meat, cheese, broth, or chocolate fondue.

Fondue pan fuel sources

Fondue fuel sources vary depending on the type of fondue you are making. For chocolate, butterscotch, coffee, and other dessert fondues, the key is to keep the liquid warm enough to prevent it from solidifying. The best fuel for this is a simple, unscented tealight candle. These candles are placed about two to three inches from the bottom of the pan or melting dish to maintain the optimal temperature.

For cheese, meat, or seafood fondues, a higher temperature is required than what can be achieved with tealights. Liquid alcohol is a good fuel option for these types of fondues as it burns without odour and does not leave soot stains on the pan. It is readily available in groceries and drug stores and can be used for lamps and cleaning purposes as well. However, a special fondue burner is required to use alcohol fuel, and extra care must be taken to avoid spilling liquid fuel near flames.

Gel fuel, a jelly-like form of alcohol, is another option for cheese, meat, or seafood fondues. Gram for gram, gel fuel burns at a slightly lower temperature than liquid alcohol, but it offers increased safety due to its higher viscosity, making it less likely to spill. It can be poured into a normal fondue burner and used in the same way as liquid fuel. Chafing fuels are also gel-based and come in screw-top tins that serve as the burning device, offering convenience and reusability. However, they may be less aesthetically pleasing than a traditional fondue set and provide less precise temperature control.

Newer fondue sets may utilise pressurised butane gas, which offers excellent temperature control and reusability. While these sets and canisters are more expensive, they are safe and do not produce any odour.

Fondue pan alternatives

A fondue pot or fondue pan is a piece of cookware used to prepare and serve fondue, a Swiss dish of melted cheese or chocolate. Traditional fondue pots are made of ceramic, cast iron, or enameled cast iron and consist of a pot, a stand, and a heat source such as a candle or spirit lamp. Now, let's discuss some fondue pan alternatives:

One alternative to a fondue pan is to use a slow cooker. A slow cooker is an electric appliance that cooks food slowly at a low temperature, making it ideal for preparing fondue. To use a slow cooker for fondue, simply combine the ingredients for your fondue in the slow cooker and heat on low for a few hours, stirring occasionally, until everything is melted and well combined. Slow cookers are a convenient option because they can keep your fondue warm for an extended period of time, and many models have removable pots that can be placed directly on the table for serving.

Another fondue pan alternative is a double boiler. A double boiler is a pot that sits on top of a saucepan of simmering water, creating indirect heat. This method is particularly well-suited for chocolate fondue, as it provides gentle and even heating that prevents the chocolate from burning or seizing. To use a double boiler for fondue, fill the bottom pan with a few inches of water and place the top pot or bowl over it, making sure the bottom isn't touching the water. Then, add your chocolate and other ingredients to the top pot and stir until everything is melted and smooth.

A heavy-bottomed saucepan can also be used in place of a fondue pan. This option is best for cheese fondue, as the saucepan can be heated on the stovetop and then transferred to a stand or trivet on the table for serving. It's important to use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent the cheese from burning or sticking to the pan. Simply heat your cheese and other ingredients over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until everything is melted and well combined.

For a more casual approach, you can also use a small, heat-proof bowl placed on top of a larger bowl or pot of hot water. This method is similar to a double boiler and works well for chocolate fondue. Simply fill the larger bowl or pot with hot water and place the smaller bowl on top, making sure it's secure and won't slip. Then, add your chocolate and other ingredients to the small bowl and stir until melted. This method may require more frequent reheating of the water to keep the fondue at the desired temperature.

Lastly, an electric skillet can also be used as a fondue pan alternative. Electric skillets provide even heating and temperature control, making them suitable for both cheese and chocolate fondue. Simply add your ingredients to the skillet, set it to a low temperature, and stir until everything is melted and combined. Electric skillets typically have removable cords, allowing them to be brought directly to the table for serving and keeping the fondue warm throughout the meal.

Frequently asked questions