Fondue Party Supplies: What You Need To Know

Hosting a fondue party is a fun and interactive way to entertain your guests. Fondue parties are typically served in three courses: cheese, an Asian hot-pot type where meat is cooked in oil or broth, and chocolate. To get started, you'll need to choose the right fondue pot for your needs. There are four main types of fondue pots: ceramic, metal, dessert/chocolate fondue pot, and electric fondue set. You'll also need fondue fuel, fondue burners, fondue forks or skewers, and fondue plates. Don't forget the napkins, as fondue can get messy! For the food, you'll want to provide a variety of dippers such as bread, vegetables, cured meats, and fruit. And don't forget the drinks – wine, beer, and cocktails are all great options to pair with your fondue.

Fondue pots: Ceramic for cheese/chocolate, metal for broth/oil

When it comes to fondue pots, the type of pot you choose depends on the type of fondue you want to make. Here's a guide to help you select the right pot for your next fondue party:

Ceramic Fondue Pots:

Ceramic fondue pots are ideal for cheese fondue. They are usually heavy and shallow, distributing heat evenly and reducing the likelihood of your cheese burning. Ceramic pots are also suitable for chocolate fondue, but it's important to monitor the heat to prevent scorching. Ceramic pots are slow to heat up, so they are not suitable for high-temperature fondues, such as meat or seafood cooked in hot oil.

Metal Fondue Pots:

Metal fondue pots, made of stainless steel or cast iron, are perfect for cooking with hot oil or broth. They conduct heat quickly and can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for meat or seafood fondue. However, metal pots may not distribute heat as evenly as ceramic pots, so they may not be the best choice for cheese or chocolate fondue. To address this issue, some stainless steel pots are sold with a porcelain insert that can be added when using cheese or chocolate.

Electric Fondue Pots:

Electric fondue pots offer convenience and easy temperature control. They can be used with any type of fondue, including cheese, chocolate, oil, or broth. Electric pots eliminate the need for open flames or fuel burners, making them a safer option. However, they do require access to a power outlet, and the presence of cords may be considered a nuisance or a tripping hazard.

When choosing a fondue pot, consider the type of fondue you want to make, the number of guests you'll be serving, and your preferred level of convenience and control. Remember to always follow safety precautions when using fondue pots, especially when working with hot oil or open flames.

Fondue forks: One per guest, plus extras

Fondue forks are an essential item for your party. They are used to spear food and swirl it in the fondue, but they become too hot to eat from directly. It is recommended that you have at least one fondue fork per guest, but it is always good to have a few extra on hand. Try to find forks that are colour-coded so there are no mix-ups. If a fondue fork accidentally goes in a mouth instead of the pot, it's out of commission.

Fondue forks are usually made from stainless steel and have heat-resistant handles. They are lightweight, well-made, and super sturdy. They are also daily necessities and are useful for picnics and camping.

Remember, there is no double-dipping allowed!

Regular flatware: To eat food from

Regular flatware is an important component of a fondue party. It is recommended that each guest is provided with two forks: a regular appetizer fork and a long fondue fork. The regular fork is used for eating the food that has been dipped in the fondue, while the fondue fork is used for dipping. It is important to note that food should not be eaten directly from the fondue fork to avoid any safety and hygiene issues.

In addition to forks, it is also advisable to provide your guests with small appetizer plates. These plates can be used to hold the food that has been dipped in the fondue before it is eaten with the regular fork. This helps to prevent double-dipping and keeps the party hygienic and safe.

When planning a fondue party, it is essential to consider the number of guests you will be hosting. Each fondue pot typically serves about four people. Therefore, if you are hosting a larger group, you may need to have multiple pots to ensure everyone can comfortably reach the fondue. It is also crucial to manage the mess that can come with a fondue party. Providing guests with small disposable plates can help reduce the amount of space needed in front of them and make cleanup easier.

Regular flatware plays a crucial role in the fondue party experience. It ensures that your guests can comfortably and safely enjoy the delicious fondue you have prepared. By providing them with the necessary utensils and plates, you create a pleasant and hygienic dining atmosphere.

Napkins: To catch drips and spills

Napkins are an essential item for any fondue party. Not only are they useful for catching drips and spills, but they can also help to keep your guests' hands and clothes clean. Here are some tips for using napkins at your fondue party:

Provide plenty of napkins: Make sure to have enough napkins for each guest, plus extras. Offer a stack of napkins at each place setting or place them in a central location within easy reach.

Choose the right type of napkins: Opt for absorbent napkins that can handle both liquid and grease. Cloth napkins or paper napkins with a textured surface can help to wipe away any mess.

Encourage proper fondue etiquette: Remind your guests to use their fondue forks only for dipping and to transfer the food to a regular fork or plate before eating. This will help prevent messes and reduce the risk of burning their mouths on hot forks.

Consider napkin placement: Place napkins under the fondue pot to catch any drips or spills that may occur during the dipping process. You can also provide individual napkins for each guest to use as a placemat, protecting their clothes and the table from any accidental spills.

Have a plan for used napkins: Provide a small bin or bag for used napkins to avoid cluttering the table. Alternatively, you can instruct your guests to dispose of their napkins as needed.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your fondue party is not only fun but also clean and hygienic for all your guests. Napkins play a crucial role in catching drips and spills, so it's important to have plenty on hand and encourage their proper use.

Serving plates: For raw foods

When it comes to serving plates for raw foods, it's important to keep a few things in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable fondue experience. Here are some detailed guidelines and suggestions:

• Separate Plates for Raw and Cooked Foods: It is crucial to use separate plates and utensils for raw and cooked foods to prevent any cross-contamination. This is an important food safety measure that cannot be overlooked.
• Serving Platters: Use large serving platters or boards to display the raw foods attractively. This allows guests to easily access the food and creates a visually appealing spread.
• Organization: Arrange the raw foods on the serving plates in a way that makes sense for the fondue process. For example, group similar items together, such as meats in one section and vegetables in another. This makes it easier for guests to find what they are looking for and prevents overcrowding on the plates.
• Bite-Sized Pieces: Cut raw foods into bite-sized pieces or cubes. This ensures that the food cooks evenly and quickly in the fondue pot and makes it easier for guests to skewer the items.
• Variety: Offer a variety of raw foods to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. This can include meats such as steak, chicken, shrimp, and sausage, as well as vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, and asparagus. It's a good idea to have some options beyond the classics to give your guests a range of choices.
• Preparation: Prepare and organize the raw foods in advance. Wash, peel, and cut the ingredients as needed, and store them on separate plates or platters covered in plastic wrap in the refrigerator until it's time to serve. This saves time and reduces mess during the party.
• Squeezed Lemon Juice: To keep fruits and vegetables looking fresh and prevent browning, squeeze a little lemon juice over them after cutting them into bite-sized portions. This simple step adds a bit of flavor and helps maintain the visual appeal of the food.
• Fondue Plates: Use designated fondue plates, which can be found on eBay or other second-hand stores, to enhance the overall fondue experience. These plates often have sections or compartments to separate raw and cooked foods, reinforcing food safety practices.
• Avoid Cross-Contamination: Emphasize to your guests the importance of keeping raw foods separate from cooked foods. Any food that can be eaten raw, even if it is intended to be cooked, should be kept away from raw meat to prevent contamination.
• Utensils: Provide separate utensils for eating and cooking. Offer mini fondue forks or skewers for cooking and regular forks for eating. This reduces the risk of germ transfer and ensures a more sanitary dining experience.

Frequently asked questions