Cheese Fondue's Perfect Sidekick: What To Serve Alongside

Fondue is a delightful dish to share with a group of people. While it can be served as an appetizer or a main course, the right side dish can elevate the dining experience. The type of fondue – cheese, meat, or chocolate – will determine the best accompaniments. For instance, cheese fondue is often served with bread cubes, small boiled potatoes, or vegetables for dipping. Meat fondue, on the other hand, pairs well with roasted vegetables or warm potato dishes, and even sweet treats like peanut butter and banana fondue.

Salads

A citrus and arugula salad with Marcona almonds is a great option, as the citrus provides a refreshing contrast to the fondue. You could also add pine nuts and heirloom tomatoes to this salad for added texture and flavour.

Another option is an apple, fennel and radish salad. This combination is crisp, crunchy, and refreshing, and the slight tartness of the apples pairs perfectly with melted cheese.

If you're looking for something a little heartier, a grilled corn salad is a great choice. Topped with cheese, bacon, and/or salsa, it's a flavourful and satisfying side dish.

For a gluten-free option, a wedge salad is a simple yet delicious choice. It's light and fresh, with crunchy lettuce and tender beets, and it's sure to please those with dietary restrictions.

Lastly, a pasta salad is always a crowd-pleaser. Combining cooked pasta with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and garlic, it's a versatile dish that can be easily transformed into a nutritious meal.

So, whether you're looking for something light and refreshing or something more substantial, these salad options are sure to enhance your fondue experience.

Breads

Bread is a classic side dish to serve with fondue, and for good reason. It is the perfect tool for scooping up melted cheese, and it also provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softer elements of the meal, such as pasta, rice, potatoes, or vegetables. Bread is also traditionally served with fondue to soak up any remaining cheese at the bottom of the pot.

When it comes to choosing the right bread for fondue, there are several options to consider. Firstly, it is important to toast the bread slightly before serving it with the fondue to prevent it from falling apart. With that in mind, here are some bread options to elevate your fondue experience:

• French baguette: A French baguette is a sturdy bread that can hold up to the flavour of the fondue without becoming soggy. Its soft texture also makes it perfect for soaking up the cheese.
• Sourdough: Sourdough bread has a unique, tangy flavour that can add depth to the fondue experience. Its soft and spongy texture is also ideal for dipping.
• Pretzels: Pretzels and cheese are a natural pair, as the saltiness of a well-made pretzel is enhanced when smothered in smooth, creamy cheese. Soft pretzel bites are a fun option for a fondue gathering.
• Bagels: Bagels are a heartier option that can stand up to the richness of the fondue. They also have a chewy texture that makes them perfect for dipping.
• Breadsticks: Breadsticks are a classic choice for fondue, as they are easy to skewer and dip into the melted cheese. They also add a nice crunchy element to the meal.

So, whether you choose a classic option like a French baguette or something more unique like pretzel bites, bread is sure to enhance your fondue experience and leave your guests satisfied.

Meat

When it comes to choosing a meat to accompany your fondue, there are plenty of options to explore. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Beef

Beef fondue, also known as "fondue Bourguignonne," typically consists of beef cooked in hot oil, along with various accompaniments. The beef should be tender, such as tenderloin, strip, or sirloin cuts. Cut the meat into small cubes or strips and skewer them on fondue forks or skewers before cooking in the hot oil. You can also experiment with different oils, such as peanut oil, grapeseed oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil, each with its own unique smoke point and flavour profile.

Chicken

Chicken is a versatile option that can be served as a fondue meat or as a side dish. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces or strips and cook in the hot oil. You can also try different coatings or seasonings to add extra flavour to your chicken fondue.

Pork

Pork, particularly tender pork chops, can be a delicious addition to your fondue. Cut the pork into small, bite-sized pieces and cook in the hot oil. You can also offer different sauces or dips to complement the pork, such as a tangy barbecue sauce or a spicy mustard dip.

Sausages

Sausage slices or small sausage meatballs can be a tasty and casual option for your fondue. Look for flavoursome sausages with herbs and spices, and cook them thoroughly in the hot oil. Offer a selection of mustards and relishes on the side for a savoury kick.

Remember, when preparing and serving meat fondue, it's important to follow food safety guidelines, such as avoiding cross-contamination and ensuring thorough cooking. Enjoy experimenting with different meats and creating a memorable dining experience!

Vegetables

Boiled or Steamed Vegetables

You can serve a variety of boiled or steamed vegetables with fondue, such as carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, pumpkin, and zucchini. These vegetables can be easily dipped into the fondue and provide a healthy and nutritious option.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, artichoke hearts, and shishito peppers, are another excellent option. Roasting adds a nice crispy texture to the vegetables, making them perfect for dipping.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Grilled vegetable skewers are a great way to add a smoky flavor to your side dish. You can use seasonal vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and asparagus, which go well with the creamy cheese fondue.

Green Beans

Green beans are a versatile option that can be served either lightly cooked or at room temperature. They offer a crisp texture and pair well with the cheese fondue.

Air Fryer Cauliflower

Cauliflower florets become crunchy and juicy when cooked in an air fryer, making them perfect for dipping into fondue. You can also season them with spices to add extra flavor.

Salads

A fresh salad can help balance out the richness of the fondue. Consider a citrus and arugula salad or a lemon arugula salad with pine nuts, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. You can also add fruits like mango to your salad for a sweet and savory combination.

Fruits

For a more elaborate fruit side dish, you could also prepare a tropical mango coleslaw, blending sweet and savoury flavours to complement the fondue. This coleslaw is a great way to refresh the palate between bites of cheese.

If you want to stick to something simpler, a citrus and arugula salad with pine nuts and parmesan or a punchy apple, fennel, and radish salad can also be served on the side. These fresh elements on the table are perfect for balancing out the richness of the fondue.

Frequently asked questions