Fondue Fuel: Williams Sonoma Set Options Explained

Fondue sets are a great way to bring people together and are perfect for entertaining. Williams Sonoma offers a range of fondue sets, including the Lugano Cast Iron Fondue Pot, which comes with a fuel burner that uses fondue fire gel. The burner holds 3oz of fondue fire gel, which is not included with the set, so you will need to purchase it separately. Williams Sonoma offers Swissmar Swiss Fire Gel, which is designed for use with fondue fuel burners and provides approximately 1.5 hours of burn time per canister. The gel is placed in the burner, lit, and the heat level can be adjusted as needed.

Fondue fuel options: gel or burner

Fondue sets are a great way to bring people together and are perfect for a fun party with friends and family. When it comes to Williams Sonoma fondue sets, you have a few fuel options to choose from: gel or a burner.

Williams Sonoma offers a variety of fondue sets, some of which use gel fuel, while others use a burner. The type of fuel you need will depend on the specific fondue set you have.

If you have a fondue set that uses gel fuel, you can use the Swissmar Swiss Fire Gel, which is designed for traditional fondue pots. This clean-burning gel is safe and easy to use. Each can provides up to 1.5 hours of burn time, and you can adjust the heat level to suit your needs. Simply place the can in your fondue fuel burner, light it, and adjust the heat.

On the other hand, if you have a Williams Sonoma fondue set that uses a burner, you'll need to purchase fuel separately. The fondue pot and burner work together to keep your food warm and ready for cooking. The burner uses fuel to maintain a steady heat, so be sure to have some on hand before your fondue night.

It's important to note that fondue sets typically use either gel fuel or a burner, but not both. So, be sure to check the instructions for your specific fondue set to determine the correct type of fuel to use.

In addition to fuel, don't forget the other essential components of a fondue set: the pot, skewers or forks, and a heat source. Whether you choose a gel fuel or burner option, your Williams Sonoma fondue set will provide a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.

What to cook with fondue fuel

The Williams Sonoma fondue set comes with a stainless steel burner that can be used with fuel to heat the fondue pot and melt foods like cheese or chocolate. The set does not come with fuel, so you will need to purchase some separately.

Fondue fuel types include gel fuel, liquid fuel (alcohol), and tea lights. The type of fuel you need will depend on the type of fondue you are making. For example, chocolate, caramel, and dessert fondues only need to be kept warm, so tea lights are sufficient. Meat, seafood, and vegetarian fondues require higher temperatures, so you will need a fondue fuel that can reach these temperatures, such as gel or alcohol fuel.

Gel fuel comes in cartridges or as pourable gel. Liquid alcohol fuel cannot be purchased online and must be bought in-store. You will need about 90 ml or 3 oz of liquid alcohol fuel for your burner. Be careful not to spill any of this flammable liquid and keep it away from your tablecloth for safety.

If you are unable to find fondue fuel, you can use 91% isopropyl alcohol, which can be found in many pharmacies. You can also use a "Sterno" type of burner, which is a fuel in a container that can be placed under your fondue pot.

How to prepare fondue fuel

To prepare fondue fuel for your Williams Sonoma fondue set, you'll need to purchase a suitable type of fuel. Williams Sonoma recommends Swissmar Swiss Fire Gel, which is designed for use with fondue fuel burners. This fire gel is clean-burning and safe and easy to use.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare and use the Swissmar Swiss Fire Gel with your Williams Sonoma fondue set:

• Purchase the Swissmar Swiss Fire Gel from Williams Sonoma or a reputable retailer. The set includes three 3-oz cans of gel, providing approximately 1.5 hours of burn time per canister.
• Peel off and discard the foil lid from the gel tin.
• Place the gel tin into the fondue gel fuel can.
• Light the gel with a fire source such as a match or a lighter.
• Place the flame adjuster on top of the gel fuel can.
• Adjust the flame to your desired heat level by rotating the flame adjuster.
• When you're ready to extinguish the flame, simply place the burner cap onto the flame adjuster.

It's important to note that fondue fuel burners and fuel are typically sold separately from the fondue pot sets. So, be sure to purchase the appropriate fuel for your fondue set before hosting your fondue night.

Additionally, always exercise caution when handling and using fondue fuel. Keep it away from children and flammable materials, and follow the safety instructions provided by the manufacturer.

How to light fondue fuel

The Williams Sonoma fondue set is a great way to enjoy a casual night with friends and family. The set includes a fondue pot, stand, burner, forks, and a lid. The burner is used to keep the fondue warm and ready for cooking, and it can be used with fuel to heat the pot and melt foods like cheese or chocolate.

• Ensure you are using the right type of fondue pot and the right type of fondue fuel. The Williams Sonoma fondue pot can be used with fondue fire gel, which is not included with the set.
• Prepare your work area by placing the burner on a safe surface, such as a kitchen counter.
• If you are refilling the burner, allow it to cool down before carefully pouring the liquid fuel into the bottom of the burner. Use caution and avoid overfilling.
• Wipe off any spilled fuel from the burner or the table.
• Ensure that all flammable materials, such as napkins or paper, are kept away from the burner.
• Place the burner underneath the fondue pot.
• Open the air holes to the maximum setting.
• Use a match to carefully light the burner through the air holes.
• Once the burner is lit, discard the used match.
• Adjust the openings to control the desired temperature.

Please note that liquid fuel, such as alcohol, cannot be purchased online due to safety reasons. It is recommended to find it in your local grocery store, usually near the BBQ supplies. Always follow the safety instructions provided by the manufacturer and exercise caution when handling flammable substances.

Fondue fuel safety

For chocolate, butterscotch, coffee, and other dessert fondues, the key is to keep the liquid warm enough to prevent it from solidifying. The best fuel to use is a simple, unscented tealight candle. Burn the candle about two to three inches away from the bottom of the pan to maintain the optimal temperature. These candles typically burn for 4 to 5 hours and do not present the same dangers as liquid fuels.

For cheese, meat, or seafood fondues, you need a fuel that burns at a higher temperature than tea lights can achieve. Liquid alcohol is a good option as it burns without odour and will not leave soot stains on the pan. It is available at most grocery and drug stores. However, special care must be taken not to spill liquid fuel, especially near open flames.

Gel fuel is essentially jelly-like alcohol and can be used in a normal fondue burner. Gram for gram, it burns at a slightly lower temperature than liquid alcohol but will burn for longer. Gel fuel is safer to use than liquid fuel as it is less likely to spill and will not run if it is knocked over.

Chafing fuels are also gel fuels packaged in screw-top tins that can be burned, extinguished, and reused. However, they may be less aesthetically pleasing than a traditional fondue set and offer less precise temperature control.

Newer fondue sets may use pressurised butane gas, which offers excellent temperature control, easy reuse, and no odour. Butane fuel is a safe option as long as the canister is handled with care and not exposed to environments with dramatic air pressure changes.

Frequently asked questions