Breaded Fondue: A Tasty Twist On A Classic

Fondue is a fun and versatile dish that can be a meal or a dessert. It's a great way to socialise at a dinner party and enjoy a variety of delicious foods. Fondue is also a good way to stretch resources, as it was originally intended in Switzerland, where it was first served with stale bread. The bread softens when covered in cheese fondue, resulting in a tasty and frugal meal.

While there are many types of fondue, from cheese to chocolate, bread is a classic pairing. You can use baguettes, sourdough, white, wheat, rye, Italian, or soda bread. The hard crust of a baguette provides a chewy but tender interior that is heavenly when covered in melted cheese. Sourdough has a distinctive flavour that can be balanced out by a strong cheese like feta. If you like your bread with some texture, a loaf with seeds and nuts pairs well with a smooth and creamy cheese like gruyere.

In addition to bread, you can dip vegetables, fruit, meat, crackers, chips, or pretzels in fondue. The possibilities are endless!

Bread is the classic choice for dipping in fondue, especially crusty bread, baguettes, sourdough, rye, and Italian bread

Fondue is a fun and versatile dish that can be a delightful meal or an unforgettable dessert. The best bread for fondue is a key consideration, and while there is no right or wrong choice, some types of bread can elevate the fondue experience.

Bread is the classic choice for dipping in fondue, especially crusty bread. The crust provides a chewy texture, while the soft interior soaks up the cheesy goodness. Crusty bread options include baguettes, which offer a perfect mix of bite and softness. The hard crust yields a tender interior that is delicious on its own but even better when dipped in melted cheese.

In addition to baguettes, other types of crusty bread that pair well with fondue include sourdough, rye, and Italian bread. Sourdough has a distinctive flavour that can stand up to the intensity of the fondue, while rye has a subtle flavour and mouthfeel that complements a variety of cheese fondues. Italian bread, on the other hand, is a jack-of-all-trades and can be paired with just about any fondue without overwhelming the flavours.

When preparing bread for fondue, it is recommended to cut the bread into cubes or slices that are easy to skewer or spear. This ensures that the bread can be easily dipped into the fondue pot without creating a mess.

Vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes

Vegetables are a fantastic option to dip into a breaded fondue. They add freshness to the meal and are a healthier alternative to some other options.

Broccoli and cauliflower florets are a great choice to dip into fondue. They can be eaten raw, but a light steam will smooth out the bitter, raw flavours. Similarly, asparagus pairs well with fondue, especially when lightly cooked to retain a satisfying crunch.

Bell peppers are a colourful and sweet addition to any fondue. They work surprisingly well with the savoury cheesiness of the fondue. Cut them into long strips and you won't even need skewers.

Carrots are another vegetable that works well with fondue. They can be lightly blanched or cooked and then allowed to cool and firm up before eating.

Finally, potatoes are a fantastic option to dip into fondue. Roasted baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes are a great choice, but for an extra crispy option, you could try potato chips.

Meat, including meatballs, chicken, shrimp, and cured meats like prosciutto and salami

Meatballs

Meatballs are a classic and crowd-pleasing option to serve alongside fondue. They can be easily prepared in advance and kept warm for serving. Consider making bite-sized meatballs using a combination of ground meats such as pork and beef, and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and paprika. Meatballs pair well with various dipping sauces, such as a creamy Dijon mustard sauce or a zesty cocktail sauce.

Chicken

Chicken is another excellent choice for breaded fondue. You can cut boneless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces and bread them before frying. Alternatively, you could offer breaded chicken tenders or nuggets for a fun and casual option. Chicken pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces, such as barbecue, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli.

Shrimp

Shrimp is a great option for those who enjoy seafood. You can offer breaded shrimp, either fried or baked, as a delicious addition to your fondue spread. Shrimp cooks quickly, making it a convenient option for fondue. It pairs well with various dipping sauces, such as a tangy cocktail sauce, a creamy avocado dip, or a spicy mayo sauce.

Cured Meats

Cured meats like prosciutto, salami, pepperoni, and other similar options can add a nice savory element to your breaded fondue. These meats are typically served uncooked and are perfect for those who want a lighter option or something that doesn't require cooking. Cured meats can be paired with a variety of condiments, such as mustards, chutneys, or a simple extra virgin olive oil dip.

When serving meat with breaded fondue, it is important to ensure that the meat is cooked properly, especially if you are using raw meats like steak or shrimp. It is also a good idea to provide a variety of dipping sauces and condiments to enhance the flavor of the meat and keep things interesting for your guests.

Fruits like apples and pears, as well as berries and bananas

When preparing fruit for dipping, it is important to prevent apples and bananas from browning by adding a little lemon juice to them. This simple step ensures that the fruit retains its freshness and visual appeal.

For those with a sweet tooth, dried fruits like strawberries, pineapple, and bananas are also a delightful option for dipping into fondue. The natural sweetness of the fruit complements the savoury cheesiness of the fondue, creating a delightful contrast.

Fondue is a versatile dish that can be customised to suit individual tastes and preferences. Fruits, with their varying textures and flavours, offer a refreshing and tasty complement to the rich and indulgent nature of fondue.

Pretzels, crackers, and chips

Pretzels

Pretzels are a fantastic option for dipping in fondue, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavours. You can opt for soft or crunchy pretzels, or even make your own at home. If you're feeling creative, try making pretzel chips by slicing leftover soft pretzels into pieces, tossing them with olive oil and spices, and baking them until crispy. This adds a nice contrast to the creamy fondue.

Crackers

Crackers are another classic choice for fondue and can be paired with a variety of cheeses and dipping sauces. From whole wheat to pita chips, there are endless options to choose from. You can even get creative and make your own homemade crackers with your favourite ingredients. This option provides a satisfying crunch and is perfect for those who enjoy a more substantial dipper.

Chips

Chips, or crisps, might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of fondue, but they can actually be a great choice. Pita chips, in particular, are an excellent option for dipping. You can buy them or make them yourself at home. The salty, crunchy texture of chips pairs surprisingly well with creamy cheese fondue, creating an irresistible combination.

So, whether you choose pretzels, crackers, or chips, you're sure to elevate your fondue experience and impress your guests. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types and flavours to find your favourite combinations!

Frequently asked questions