The Best Heat Sources For Your Fondue Pot

Fondue is a warm dish that involves melting cheese, chocolate, or other sauces in a pot and using skewers to dip snacks without burning yourself. There are various ways to heat a fondue pot, including alcohol fuel, butane fuel, electric heat, Sterno (gel fuel), and tea light candles. Each heat source has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of heat intensity and convenience. For example, electric heat may not produce as much heat as alcohol or butane, while tea light candles are only suitable for keeping chocolate fondue warm. It's important to follow safety precautions when using fondue burners, such as avoiding refilling the burner while it's still hot.

Alcohol fuel

To light an alcohol burner, first, fill the burner with 3 ounces of fuel. Using more is not recommended and may cause excessive flames. You can use 2 ounces of fuel if you plan on less cooking time. Be careful to wipe off any alcohol that has spilled onto the burner before placing it on its stand. Then, use a match to light the fuel at the centre of the burner. Do not use a lighter as this can be dangerous. Once the fuel is lit, use the adjustable handle to control the size of the flame. Open more holes to make the flames higher and close them to lower the flames.

If your burner is running out of fuel, do not attempt to add more while it is lit. Use the burner cover to extinguish the flame and allow the burner to cool before refuelling.

To ensure safety when using an alcohol burner, protect your table from the heat of the flame by placing your pot on a stable surface with a heat pad, wooden cutting board, or ceramic tile underneath.

Butane fuel

Butane is the main type of fuel used in fondue pots. It is the central catalyst that keeps most fondue pots going strong, regardless of whether you are using high, medium, or low heat.

Fondue pots typically have their own heat source, and this small flame burns underneath the pot after the switch is turned on. This is butane at work. The rich taste of something that’s been cooked properly in a fondue pot is quite unique.

Fondue pots are often used at catered events and banquets, and the taste and richness of the food cooked in them rarely disappoint.

Electric heat

Electric fondue sets are a great option for your next fondue night! They are known to distribute heat evenly, which is essential for a good fondue experience.

Electric fondue sets may not produce as high a heat as alcohol or butane sets. Therefore, it is recommended to start your broth or hot oil on the stove and then transfer it carefully to the fondue pot.

Fondue pot materials vary, and you can choose from dishwasher-safe, electric, or personal-sized pots. Electric fondue pots are designed to distribute heat evenly, ensuring your fondue stays warm and inviting throughout your meal.

When preparing a meat fondue with an electric fondue pot, cut your meat into bite-sized pieces. You can use tenderloin, chicken, or even seafood like shrimp or fish. Heat your oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Pat the meat dry to prevent hot oil splashes and place the meat on skewers. Dip the meat into the hot oil and keep it submerged for the desired level of doneness. For rare meat, keep it in the oil for 25-30 seconds, 30-35 seconds for medium, and 45-60 seconds for well-done.

For a chocolate fondue, set your electric fondue pot to a temperature between 115 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If the chocolate is too hot, it will become thin and runny, and if it's too cold, it will be thick and difficult to dip. Break up or chop your chocolate into small pieces and place them in the pot. Once melted, add milk or cream to achieve the desired consistency. Keep the pot plugged in to prevent the chocolate from cooling and hardening.

Electric fondue pots are a convenient and safe option for your fondue nights. They distribute heat evenly and allow you to enjoy your fondue at a consistent temperature.

Sterno (gel fuel)

Sterno is a brand name for fuel that comes in a container. It is a solid fuel, so it won't spill, and it is a safer alternative to liquid fuel. It is also known as 'canned heat'.

If you have misplaced the burner for your fondue pot, you may be able to use a Sterno-type burner for hot oil, broth, or cheese fondue. Simply place it under your fondue pot and light it.

Sterno is available in gel form, which can be used in the same way as liquid fuel. You pour the gel fuel into the fondue pot's small black cup, place it in the stand, and light it. If you can't find gel fuel, a can of Sterno might fit in the bottom part of the stand.

Sterno gel fuel is a good option if you are looking for an alternative to liquid alcohol fuel, which is highly flammable and cannot be purchased online.

Tea light candles

Number of Tea Lights

The number of tea lights you'll need depends on the size of your fondue pot and the amount of fondue you're melting. For a small fondue pot and a quick melting time, two to three tea lights should be sufficient. However, if you have a larger pot or want to keep your fondue warm for an extended period, consider using four tea lights. With this setup, you can maintain the right temperature for approximately 1.5 hours.

Type of Fondue Pot

When using tea lights, it's best to use a cast iron fondue pot as they retain heat very well. If you're preparing your fondue in advance, preheat your pot in the oven to ensure it's warm before transferring the fondue to it. This will help keep your fondue at the ideal temperature for longer.

Preparing the Fondue

You can melt your chocolate fondue directly in the fondue pot over the tea lights, or you can use a double boiler on the stove and then transfer it to the fondue pot. If you choose the latter method, be sure to stir frequently to prevent the fondue from burning.

Safety

Always use unscented tea light candles to avoid altering the taste of your fondue. Additionally, place your fondue pot on a stable surface, such as a wooden cutting board or a ceramic tile, to protect your table from the heat. Make sure to keep flammable materials, such as napkins or paper, away from the tea lights.

Frequently asked questions