Cheese Fondue: Classic Combinations And Creative Twists

Fondue is a Swiss dish that originated in the 1700s when farmers used leftover cheese, stale bread, and wine to create a meal during harsh winters. Today, fondue is a combination of warm cheeses, wine, and seasonings that is mixed until it becomes a melted dip. While bread is the most popular dipper for fondue, there are many other options to choose from, including vegetables, meat, and fruit. Here are some ideas for what to put in your fondue:

- Bread: Baguette, sourdough, rye, focaccia, brioche, bagels, pretzels, and crackers.

- Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, asparagus, zucchini, artichoke hearts, bell peppers, mushrooms, and potatoes.

- Meat: Meatballs, steak, bacon, sausages, salami, shrimp, and chicken.

- Fruit: Apples, pears, grapes, and avocados.

Bread

When it comes to choosing the right type of bread, the options are endless. Here are some ideas:

• Baguette
• Sourdough
• Rye
• Focaccia
• Brioche
• Bagels
• Pumpernickel
• Whole wheat
• Olive bread
• Ciabatta
• Naan
• Challah
• Breadsticks
• English muffins
• Tortillas
• Sweet bread with nuts and dried fruits

If you want to get creative, you can even make your own homemade pretzels or pretzel bites. Store-bought soft or crunchy pretzels are also a great option.

To ensure your bread doesn't fall apart when dipped in the fondue, it's a good idea to toast it beforehand. You can also cut the bread into bite-sized pieces or cubes to make it easier to skewer and dip.

So, whether you're a fan of dense sourdough or prefer the airiness of a baguette, feel free to experiment and choose the bread that best suits your taste. Happy dipping!

Meat

Fondue is a great way to enjoy a variety of meats, and it's a fun and interactive dining experience. When it comes to choosing meats for your fondue, there are several options to consider. Here are some detailed suggestions for selecting and preparing meat for your next fondue gathering:

Fondue is a versatile dish that allows for a wide range of meat selections. Popular choices include cubed steak, chicken (breaded or marinated), shrimp (breaded or plain), and various types of sausage. You can also get creative and use leftover prime rib or experiment with different types of meatballs. If you're feeling adventurous, try lamb, pork, or even hot dogs for a fun twist.

Preparation and Cooking:

Before cooking your meat fondue, it's important to cut the meat into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and easy handling during the dipping process. You can also marinate the meat ahead of time to infuse extra flavour. Chicken, in particular, benefits from marinating as it can absorb a variety of flavours and spices.

Cooking Methods:

The traditional method for cooking meat fondue is to use a pot of hot oil or broth. Electric fondue pots are a popular choice, as they allow for precise temperature control. Heat the oil or broth to the desired temperature, usually around 375°F. Each guest can then use their coloured fondue fork to cook their chosen raw meat directly in the pot. It's important to note that breaded items are typically cooked in oil, while broth is better suited for unbreaded meats and vegetables.

Dipping Sauces:

Variety is key when it comes to fondue, and offering a range of dipping sauces will elevate the dining experience. Provide sauces that complement the specific meats you've chosen, such as steak sauce for steak or marinara sauce for ravioli. Don't be afraid to get creative and offer unique sauce options that will surprise and delight your guests.

Leftovers:

If you find yourself with leftover fondue meat, there's no need to worry. You can easily repurpose it into a delicious stir-fry by browning the meat strips in a skillet or wok, adding vegetables and sauce, and serving it over rice or noodles. Alternatively, you can use the leftover meat for sandwiches, such as French dips or Philly cheese steaks.

Seafood

When it comes to choosing seafood for your fondue, there are plenty of options. You can go for firm fish like salmon, swordfish, shrimp, scallops, halibut, or monkfish. These fish hold together well and can be cut into bite-sized pieces. You could also try crab, crabmeat, lobster, oysters, or tuna.

Broth Fondue

For a seafood fondue in broth, you can use chicken stock, sherry, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the broth to a boil in your fondue pot, and then dip your seafood of choice. Monitor the temperature to ensure the broth doesn't evaporate too quickly or cook your food too slowly.

Hot Oil Fondue

If you prefer a hot oil fondue, carefully fill your fondue pot with oil, ensuring it can withstand the high temperatures. Light the fondue burner and adjust the heat. Place your seafood on a fondue fork and fry for about a minute. Let it cool, then transfer to a regular fork and dip into your chosen sauce.

Cheesy Seafood Fondue

For a cheesy twist, you can combine butter, flour, shrimp stock or water, cayenne pepper, shrimp, crab meat, spinach, green onions, and Monterey Jack cheese. Melt the cheese under a broiler and serve immediately with garlic bread.

Vegetables

If you're looking for a raw, fresh option, go for bell peppers, asparagus, mushrooms, or green beans. These vegetables offer a snappy texture with every bite and are perfect for those who want to emphasise the cheese.

For a softer texture, steaming is a great way to prepare vegetables for dipping. Try steaming carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, or artichoke hearts. This is a fantastic option if you want to enjoy a variety of flavours without the crunch.

Broccoli and cauliflower are also delicious when served raw with fondue. They add a vitamin-packed freshness to the indulgent dish.

If you're looking for a heartier option, potatoes are a versatile choice. Simply bake a tray of baby potatoes, or try potato croquettes for a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

Zucchini is another excellent option for dipping. It has a tender yet firm texture and a mild flavour, making it a perfect canvas for the cheese.

Other great vegetable options include:

• Carrots (raw or roasted)
• Scallops
• Radishes (roasted)
• Onions (pickled)

Fruits

Fruit is a fantastic option to dip in your cheese fondue, and it's a great way to bring some colour and freshness to the table. Here are some ideas for fruits to serve with your fondue:

Apples

Apples are a popular choice for cheese fondue, especially tart, crisp apples like Granny Smith. The crunch and tartness of the apple provide a nice contrast to the creamy, savoury cheese. You can slice the apples or cut them into cubes to make them easier to skewer and dip. Leaving the skin on can also make them easier to handle.

Pears

Like apples, pears can be a delicious addition to your fondue. Bosc pears are an excellent choice, as their nutmeg and cinnamon undertones complement the spices often found in cheese fondue.

Grapes

Grapes are another fruity option that pairs well with cheese fondue. They are small and easy to pop into your mouth, making them a convenient choice for dipping.

Avocados

Avocados may not be the first fruit that comes to mind for fondue, but they can be a tasty and unique option.

Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are a great choice if you're looking for something savoury and a little less sweet. They add a pop of colour to your fondue spread and are easy to skewer and dip.

In addition to these options, you can also get creative and experiment with other fruits that you enjoy. Remember to prepare the fruits by cutting them into bite-sized pieces or slices that are easy to skewer and dip into the fondue.

Frequently asked questions