Emilie Meyer
Fondue burners are used to heat ingredients placed in a fondue pot or chafing dish. The type of fuel used depends on the type of fondue being cooked. For example, dessert fondues such as chocolate, butterscotch, and caramel only require a small, unscented tealight candle to keep the liquid warm enough to stop it from solidifying. Cheese, meat, and broth fondues, on the other hand, require a higher heat source, such as denatured alcohol, butane, or gel fuel. Electric fondue pots are also an option for those who prefer not to use an open flame. It is important to follow safety precautions when using fondue burners, such as using the correct type of fuel and avoiding spills.
What You'll Learn
Denatured alcohol
When filling the burner, it is important to never overfill it. Using more than the recommended amount of fuel may cause excessive flames. Typically, 3 ounces of fuel will burn for approximately 60-90 minutes, depending on how high the flame is set. For a shorter fondue session, 2 ounces of fuel can be used.
It is important to note that denatured alcohol is highly flammable and cannot be purchased online. When using this type of fuel, always take special care to avoid spills, especially near open flames. Before lighting the burner, ensure that all flammable materials are kept at a safe distance.
To light the burner, use a match to ignite the fuel at the center of the burner. Never use a lighter as this can be extremely dangerous. Once the fuel is lit, use the adjustable handle to control the size of the flame. Opening more holes will increase the height of the flames, while closing them will lower the flames.
If the burner is running out of fuel, do not attempt to add more while it is still lit. Use the burner cover to extinguish the flame and allow it to cool for a few minutes before refuelling.
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Butane
A butane fondue burner can burn for varying lengths of time, depending on the heat setting. On a high heat, it can burn for an hour, on medium for three hours, and on low for nine hours. These times can vary depending on the size of the burner.
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Gel fuel
To use gel fuel, simply pour it into the fondue burner and light it with a match. The burner should have holes or a mesh surface to allow for air circulation. It is important to never overfill the burner and always wipe up any spills. When you are finished using the fondue, simply cover the burner to smother the flame.
Some popular options for gel fuel include the Swiss Fire Gel by Swissmar and the Fire Dragon Fuel by BCB Adventure. These products are designed to be easy and safe to use, providing a long-lasting heat source for your fondue. Always read the instructions and safety information provided by the manufacturer before use.
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Tea lights
Tea light candles are a great option for fondue burners, especially for chocolate, butterscotch, coffee, and other dessert fondues. The key is to keep the liquid warm enough to stop it from solidifying, and tea lights are perfect for this. Tea lights are also great for melting the chocolate before transferring it to the fondue dish.
When using tea lights for fondue, it is important to use unscented tea lights. These will provide a simple and subtle heat source without overwhelming the delicate flavours of your fondue.
To use tea lights for fondue, simply place the tea light candle underneath the fondue pot and light it with a match or lighter. Make sure to prepare your fondue on the stove in a pot or double boiler first, and then transfer it to the fondue dish with the tea light to keep it warm. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.
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Electric pot
Electric fondue pots are a convenient and safe alternative to traditional fondue pots that use an open flame. They are also more versatile, as they can be used with any type of fondue, including oil, broth, chocolate, or cheese.
The Cuisinart CFO-3SS Electric Fondue Pot is a highly rated option that features a temperature dial with eight heat settings, making it suitable for a wide range of fondue recipes. It has a 3-quart capacity, which is large enough to feed a hungry group. The pot has a non-stick coating for easy cleaning and a brushed stainless steel finish for a stylish look.
Another popular choice is the Nostalgia 1.5-Quart Stainless Steel Electric Fondue Pot, which is a more affordable option. It has 11 variable temperature settings and a sturdy stainless steel housing. While the pot insert is made of thinner metal and can feel a little unstable, it is very easy to use and effective at heating.
The Dash Deluxe Stainless Steel Fondue Maker is a great option for fondue parties, as it comes with eight color-coded forks and attachable ingredient cups. It has a precise temperature dial and a 3-quart capacity, making it perfect for a large group. The non-stick stainless steel pot is also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
If you're looking for a compact and stylish option, consider the Hamilton Beach Electric Raclette Table Grill. While it's not technically a fondue pot, it can be used for interactive dining centred around melted cheese. It has a non-stick surface and can be used by up to eight people at a time, making it perfect for dinner parties.
Electric fondue pots offer a safe and convenient way to enjoy the interactive and social experience of fondue. With a variety of options available, you can choose the perfect pot based on your needs, whether it's for a romantic date night or a large gathering with friends.
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Frequently asked questions
The type of fuel depends on the type of fondue. For chocolate, butterscotch, coffee, and other dessert fondues, use a simple, unscented tealight candle. For cheese, meat, or seafood fondues, you can use liquid alcohol, gel fuel, or butane gas.
A fondue burner is a heat source for a fondue pot or chafing dish. It is positioned directly below the pot or dish and can be electric or use portable fuel.
First, make sure you are using the right type of fondue pot and fondue fuel. If you are using an alcohol burner, fill the burner with 2-3 ounces of denatured alcohol or fondue fuel gel. Wipe off any spills and use a match to light the fuel. If you are using a gel burner, follow the instructions for an alcohol burner, but you won't need to use a match to light the fuel.
A Sterno burner is a small, canned fuel container that can be used as an alternative to an alcohol burner for hot oil, broth, or cheese fondue. However, the size and heat of the flame cannot be adjusted once it is lit.
For a meat fondue, use a metal pot, ideally made of stainless steel. The pot should have strong handles, a stable base, and an adjustable alcohol burner with a snuffer.
