Cheese Fondue: Best Dips For A Nacho Feast

Nacho cheese fondue is a simple yet delicious dish that can be served at any occasion. It is a combination of melted cheese and wine, and there are several foods that can be dipped into it. The most popular and traditional dipper is bread, especially crusty bread, which soaks up the cheesy goodness. Other options include fruits like apples, pears, grapes, and avocados; vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers; and proteins like grilled steak, poached chicken, and shrimp. For a more indulgent option, try dipping crispy tortilla chips or French fries into the fondue.

Bread

When selecting a type of bread, it's important to consider texture. Sturdier, denser bread will hold up better in the hot cheese. Good options include sourdough, rye, and pumpernickel. French bread is another popular choice, and baguettes are a favourite for many. You can also opt for multigrain bread, or go with breadsticks and croutons.

To prepare the bread for dipping, lightly toast it and cut it into cubes or small pieces. This will make it easier to dip and ensure that the cheese adheres nicely to the bread.

If you're feeling ambitious, you can even bake your own bread from scratch. Fresh baguettes, simple peasant bread, or sourdough loaves will all pair wonderfully with the cheese fondue.

So, whether you go with a store-bought option or a homemade loaf, bread is an excellent choice for dipping into nacho cheese fondue. It's a classic for a reason, and its ability to soak up all that cheesy goodness will surely satisfy your cravings.

Fruits

Fruit and cheese are a classic combination, so it's no surprise that fruits are a great option for dipping in nacho cheese fondue. While almost any fruit will pair well with the creamy, cheesy dip, some fruits are better than others when it comes to holding up to the thick, warm cheese.

Some of the best fruits to dip in nacho cheese fondue include apples, pears, grapes, avocados, and cherry tomatoes. These fruits provide a nice contrast in texture and flavour to the rich, creamy cheese. The crispness and tartness of Granny Smith apples, for example, complement the creaminess of the fondue, while Bosc pears' nutmeg and cinnamon undertones bring out the spices often found in nacho cheese fondue.

When preparing fruit for dipping, it is best to avoid fruits that are very soft and juicy, as they may fall apart in the fondue. Instead, opt for raw or whole fruits that have some crispness to them. Sliced apples and pears, avocado slices, seedless grapes, and cherry tomatoes are all excellent choices. Dried fruits, such as dried apricots or dried figs, can also be offered for dipping, providing a different texture and flavour profile.

In addition to fruit, there are many other foods that can be dipped in nacho cheese fondue. Bread is a classic choice, with French bread, sourdough, and baguettes being popular options. Vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, and carrots, are also great for dipping, especially when roasted or steamed first. Meatballs, grilled steak, poached chicken, and cured meats like salami and chorizo can also be dipped in nacho cheese fondue for a delicious, savoury treat.

Vegetables

If you want to enjoy a snappy texture with every bite, you can serve raw vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, mushrooms, green beans, sweet peppers, fennel, and cherry tomatoes.

If you want to emphasise the cheese, opt for steamed vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and artichoke hearts. You could also try steamed green beans, radishes, pearl onions, or baby potatoes.

Roasted vegetables are also a great option. Vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, carrots, Brussels sprouts, and zucchini are delicious when roasted.

Sautéed vegetables like mushrooms are another tasty addition to the plate of fondue dippers.

Meat and seafood

If you're looking to add some protein to your nacho cheese fondue, there are plenty of meat and seafood options to choose from.

For meat lovers, grilled steak, poached chicken, and cooked pork are all excellent choices. Grilled steak, in particular, is a decadent treat when dipped in nacho cheese fondue. Just be sure not to overcook it, as you want it to remain tender and juicy. In addition, dried or cured meats such as beef jerky, salami, pepperoni, and sausage will add a spicy kick to your fondue.

When it comes to seafood, shrimp is a popular choice. Boil them with lemons until they turn pink, and your guests will be in for a divine treat. Crab legs are another luxurious option that your guests can crack open and dip into the cheese. For a bolder flavour, try grilled or roasted shrimp with a hint of garlic and parsley.

Crackers

Whole Wheat Crackers

Whole wheat crackers have a sturdy and crunchy exterior that complements the silky smooth consistency of the dip. The contrast in textures will create a buzz around the table and leave your guests wanting more.

Sweet Chipotle Bacon Crackers

These crackers offer a unique combination of salty and sweet flavours, with a hint of heat. They are crunchy and soft, providing a smoky and indulgent experience. They are a fun alternative to traditional bread dippers and will surely impress your guests.

Crispy Garlic Basil Chips

These crispy basil leaves are baked in the oven with a light sprinkling of salt. They add an aromatic and savoury dimension to your fondue, especially when paired with a fondue made using Gruyère and Emmentaler cheeses.

Potato Chips

Potato chips are a classic dipper and go well with a variety of sauces and dips. They provide a crunchy texture that works amazingly with melted cheese. For a more indulgent option, try thick-cut, battered, and fried mojo potatoes, which offer a crispy exterior and tender interior.

Frequently asked questions