Cheese Fondue: Melting Pot's Signature Dish And Sides

The Melting Pot is a fondue restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant invites guests to enjoy an interactive meal with friends and family, savouring artisan cheeses, fresh salads, entrees, and desserts. The Melting Pot's cheese fondue is a popular choice, with options like the Classic Alpine Fondue and the Aged Cheddar & Gouda fondue. The fondue is served with a variety of dippers, including bread, fruits, and vegetables. The restaurant also offers gluten-free options and takes pride in accommodating dietary restrictions.

Dippers: bread, apples, broccoli, carrots, pretzels, potatoes, and meats

When it comes to cheese fondue, the dippers are just as important as the fondue itself. While bread is a classic pairing, there are plenty of other options to explore, such as:

Apples

The tartness of apples provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy cheese fondue. Granny Smith apples, in particular, are a popular choice due to their crispness and slight sourness. Cut the apples into cubes for easier dipping.

Broccoli

Steamed or lightly steamed broccoli florets make excellent dippers. They add a crunchy texture and a healthy touch to the indulgent dish.

Carrots

Much like apples, carrots offer a crunchy and slightly sweet contrast to the cheese fondue. They can be served raw or lightly steamed, but either way, they make for a colourful and nutritious addition to the fondue experience.

Pretzels

Pretzels, especially soft pretzels, are a classic dipper for cheese fondue. Their salty flavour and soft texture complement the cheese perfectly.

Potatoes

Roasted baby potatoes, boiled baby potatoes, or even potato chips can be dipped into the fondue for a hearty and satisfying bite.

Meats

Meats such as salami, smoked sausage, ham cubes, shrimp, and bacon-wrapped chicken can be added to the fondue to make it a more substantial meal. These protein-rich options are perfect for those who want to turn the fondue into a full-on feast.

Wine pairings: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, or Chardonnay

When it comes to wine pairings, there are a few options that go well with cheese fondue. Here are some recommendations for Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay:

Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is a dry white wine that pairs well with cheese fondue. It has a high acid content, which helps to keep the cheese smooth and prevents it from becoming clumpy. Adding a dash of lemon juice to the Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the flavour and balance the acidity of the fondue. This wine is a good choice for those who prefer a lighter, more refreshing option.

Pinot Gris

Pinot Gris is another dry white wine that complements cheese fondue. It is made from grey or black grapes and has a slightly fruity taste. The dryness and light crispness of Pinot Gris make it a good match for the strong flavours of the cheese. It is not too sweet, which allows the flavours of the cheese to stand out. Pinot Gris is a versatile wine that can be paired with various dishes, including chicken, fish, and spicy Asian cuisine.

Chardonnay

When it comes to Chardonnay, an unoaked variety is the best choice to pair with cheese fondue. Chardonnay's crisp, dry, and bright characteristics make it a good match for the rich flavours of the fondue. A Chardonnay with tropical fruit notes can add an interesting dimension to the pairing. It is important to note that an oaked Chardonnay may overpower the delicate flavours of the fondue, so it is best to opt for an unoaked option.

Beer pairings: Bud Light, Sam Adams Boston Lager, or O'Doul's

When it comes to beer pairings, there are a few options that can complement a cheese fondue. The choice of beer can either complement or contrast with the richness of the fondue, creating a harmonious or contrasting flavour combination. Here are some specific pairings to consider:

Bud Light

Bud Light is an American-style light lager with a crisp, clean taste. It has a subtle sweetness and a low bitterness, making it a refreshing option to pair with cheese fondue. The light and crisp nature of Bud Light can provide a nice contrast to the rich and creamy texture of the fondue. Its subtle flavours can also help to cleanse the palate between bites, preventing the fondue from becoming overwhelming.

Sam Adams Boston Lager

Sam Adams Boston Lager is a full-bodied lager with a robust flavour. It has a malty sweetness and a blend of spicy hops, creating a complex taste profile. This beer can stand up to the bold flavours of cheese fondue and offer a harmonious pairing. The maltiness of the beer can complement the nuttiness of the cheese, while the spicy notes add an interesting contrast.

ODoul's

ODoul's is a non-alcoholic beer with a smooth, slightly sweet taste. It has a light and refreshing quality that can balance out the richness of the cheese fondue. The subtle flavours of ODoul's won't overpower the fondue, making it a good option for those who want to enjoy the flavours of the cheese without interference from the beer.

When choosing a beer pairing for cheese fondue, it's important to consider the types of cheese used, as different cheeses will have different flavour profiles. Traditional Swiss cheeses like Gruyère and Emmental have a nutty and slightly sweet flavour, pairing well with both white and red wines. However, other cheeses such as Swiss cheese, comté, raclette, fontina, gouda, and cheddar are also commonly used in fondue, each bringing their own unique characteristics.

Non-alcoholic alternatives: chicken broth or stock

Chicken broth or stock is a great non-alcoholic alternative to serve with cheese fondue at Melting Pot. It is an excellent option for those who do not consume alcohol or are looking for a different flavour profile. The savoury, umami-rich notes of chicken broth or stock add depth to the fondue without overwhelming the delicate flavours of the cheese.

When selecting a chicken broth or stock, opt for a good-quality product to ensure the best flavour. You can choose between store-bought or homemade options, but ensure it is fresh and well-seasoned. If you are short on time, there are several high-quality brands available in most grocery stores that will elevate your fondue experience.

To prepare the chicken broth or stock for fondue, simply warm it up and use it in place of beer or wine in your favourite cheese fondue recipe. It is important to note that the amount of chicken broth or stock used may vary depending on the recipe, so adjust accordingly. Additionally, keep in mind that chicken broth or stock has a more subtle flavour than alcohol, so you may need to add more to achieve the desired taste.

Chicken broth or stock pairs well with a variety of cheeses commonly used in fondue, such as cheddar, Emmentaler Swiss cheese, Gruyère, or Gouda. The mild, savoury flavour of the broth enhances the creaminess of the cheese without being too overpowering. It also complements a variety of dippers, including bread, vegetables, and meats.

When serving chicken broth or stock-based fondue, consider offering an assortment of dippers to your guests. This can include cubed French, sourdough, or pumpernickel bread; steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus; roasted baby potatoes; sliced apples; or cooked sliced hot sausage. The versatility of chicken broth or stock-based fondue makes it a perfect choice for accommodating different dietary preferences or restrictions.

Remember to keep the fondue warm and melty by using a fondue pot or a regular pot on the stove. Enjoy the interactive and social dining experience that fondue offers, creating memorable moments with family and friends!

Dessert: chocolate fondue

Chocolate fondue is a decadent dessert option, perfect for special occasions and romantic evenings. The Melting Pot's chocolate fondue is made with milk chocolate, heavy cream, and crunchy peanut butter. The fondue is served with a variety of dippers, including fruits, cakes, and other treats. Here are some ideas for what to serve with your chocolate fondue:

• Strawberries
• Marshmallows
• Cheesecake bites
• Brownie bites
• Cookies
• Pretzels
• Rice Krispy treats
• Pineapple
• Angel food cake
• Bananas
• Pirouette cookies
• Graham crackers
• Marshmallows
• Crystallized ginger
• Apples
• Vanilla cookies
• Rice Krispie squares

You can also get creative and use other types of fruits, cookies, or treats that you enjoy. The sky's the limit!

Preparing the Chocolate Fondue

To prepare the chocolate fondue, you can use a fondue pot or a double boiler. Combine the heavy cream and chocolate over low to medium heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is melted. When ready to serve, add the crunchy peanut butter to the top of the fondue.

If you don't have a fondue pot, you can use a regular pot or saucepan. Just be sure to place a thick towel or a potholder on your table before setting down the pot. Alternatively, you can prepare the fondue in a pot and then place it in a mini crockpot at a low temperature to keep it warm.

It's important to note that if you are using a homemade double boiler, ensure that the pot or bowl you use is very dry. Any water in the melted chocolate may cause it to seize up.

Adjusting the Consistency

The consistency of the chocolate fondue can be adjusted to your preference. If you find it too thick, simply whisk in additional cream or milk until you reach the desired consistency. It's much easier to make the fondue thinner than thicker, so don't be afraid to add a little extra liquid if needed.

Frequently asked questions