Fondue Pot Buying: Best Places To Shop

Fondue is a fun and interactive meal, perfect for a group hang or a romantic night. If you're looking to buy a fondue pot, there are a few things to consider. First, decide between an electric fondue pot or a manual fondue pot. Electric fondue pots are easy to adjust and are better for cooking with oil or broth, while manual fondue pots are more portable and can be used anywhere. You should also think about the material of the pot – stainless steel, ceramic, enameled cast iron, or cast iron. Other factors to consider include temperature control, safety measures like handles and breakaway cords, the number of forks included, and the size of the pot. You can find fondue pots at various retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Canadian Tire.

Electric fondue pots

Cuisinart CFO-3SS Electric Fondue Pot

The Cuisinart CFO-3SS electric fondue pot is a great option for those looking for an easy-to-use and adjustable fondue pot. It has eight heat settings, making it perfect for preparing various types of fondue, from chocolate to oil for frying meats and veggies. The pot has a 3-quart capacity and comes with eight colour-coded forks and a ring insert to hold them in place. It is available on Amazon, Walmart, and Williams-Sonoma for around $80.

Nostalgia Stainless Steel Electric Fondue Pot

If you're looking for an affordable option, the Nostalgia stainless steel electric fondue pot is a great choice. At $38, it offers good value for money without compromising on features. The pot has a 6-cup capacity and comes with colour-coded forks. The handles are designed to stay cool, and the electric control allows for both large and small adjustments to the temperature. You can buy this fondue pot on Amazon, Wayfair, or Home Depot.

All-Clad Cast Aluminium Fondue Pot

For those looking for a more traditional-style fondue pot, the All-Clad cast aluminium fondue pot is a great option. This handsome pot is a bit pricier at $200, but it offers versatility with oven- and stovetop-safe inserts. The outer pot has a capacity of 3.5 quarts, while the insert holds 2.5 quarts, making it perfect for a large group. The set includes eight colour-coded forks and a fork ring. You can purchase this fondue pot on Amazon, Williams-Sonoma, or Sur La Table.

Swissmar Lugano 9-Piece Cast Iron Fondue Set

The Swissmar Lugano 9-piece cast iron fondue set is perfect if you're looking for a classic Swiss-style fondue pot. The enameled cast iron pot has excellent heat retention and comes with a wrought-iron stand to keep the burning fuel and steaming pot secure. The set includes a gel fuel canister, six forks, and has a 2-quart capacity. However, it doesn't allow for much heat adjustment. You can find this fondue set on Amazon, Walmart, or Sur La Table for $120.

Hamilton Beach 12 Cup Electric Fondue Pot Set

The Hamilton Beach electric fondue pot set is another great option for those looking for temperature control. It has a 3-quart capacity and comes with six colour-coded forks. The temperature control feature allows you to adjust the heat to suit your fondue needs, whether you're melting chocolate or cooking with hot oil. This fondue pot is available on Amazon for around $35.

You can also find a variety of electric fondue pots on Target and Wayfair, offering different features and designs to suit your needs.

Manual fondue pots

Types of Manual Fondue Pots

• Enamel cast iron: This material heats up quickly and retains heat well. It is also easy to clean, as it is usually dishwasher-safe.
• Metal: Metal pots heat up quickly and are durable, but they may have hot spots that can burn delicate foods like chocolate or cheese.
• Ceramic: Ceramic pots heat up slowly and retain a constant temperature, making them ideal for chocolate or cheese fondue.
• Stainless steel: Stainless steel pots are durable, easy to clean, and heat up quickly. However, some may have thin bottoms that can burn delicate foods.

Where to Buy Manual Fondue Pots

When it comes to purchasing a manual fondue pot, you have several options:

• Amazon: Amazon offers a wide variety of modern fondue pots, including electric and manual options.
• Target: Target carries some electric fondue pots, which can also be added to wedding registries.
• EBay: If you're looking for a retro fondue pot, eBay is a great option. You can find unique and colourful pots from the 60s and 70s at a fraction of the price of new pots.

How to Use a Manual Fondue Pot

• Always refer to the instructions provided by the manufacturer for your specific fondue pot.
• For meat fondue, cut your meat and vegetables into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on separate plates. Keep them refrigerated until you are ready to cook.
• When using oil or broth in your fondue pot, do not fill the pot more than one-third full to prevent splattering.
• For cheese fondue, shred or grate the cheese to help it melt faster. Use a wooden spoon to stir the mixture, and rub the inner surface of the pot with a garlic clove for added flavour.
• For chocolate fondue, use chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 50%. Heat the chocolate and cream mixture over a double boiler, constantly stirring, until it is creamy. Then transfer it to the fondue pot and use a small amount of heat, such as a tea light, to keep it warm.
• Always ensure your fondue pot has cooled down completely before cleaning or storing it. Wash all parts of the fondue set in soapy hot water, and if your pot is made of ceramic, you can put it in the dishwasher.

Ceramic fondue pots

Boska Tea Light Tapas Fondue Set

The Boska Tea Light Tapas Fondue Set is a ceramic fondue pot that can be used with tea lights to keep your fondue warm. It has a capacity of 7 ounces, making it perfect for a date night or a small gathering. The pot is microwave and dishwasher-safe, making it convenient and easy to use.

Emile Henry Fondue Set

The Emile Henry Fondue Set is a high-quality ceramic fondue pot made in France. Its innovative Flame design allows the pot to stay warmer for longer, making it perfect for family meals and entertaining. The set includes an 8-piece fondue set, with a capacity of 2.6 quarts, and can be used directly on heat sources such as gas, electricity, and halogen. The pot is also oven, microwave, and dishwasher-safe.

Heidi Swissmar Ceramic Fondue Set

The Heidi Swissmar Ceramic Fondue Set is an authentic Swiss fondue set that includes a ceramic pot, a traditional wrought iron rechaud, six heat-resistant stainless steel forks, and an 8-hole fondue burner. The ceramic pot has a capacity of 2.65 liters and is safe to use on the cooktop, in the oven, in the microwave, and with traditional fondue-fuelled burners.

Etsy Ceramic Fondue Pots

Etsy offers a wide range of ceramic fondue pots, including vintage and handmade options. You can find various styles, colours, and sizes to fit your needs, such as the Chantal Cook & Serve Fun - Fondue 3 Cup Navy Ceramic - Stainless Steel Set or the Vintage Two-Tone Ceramic Pottery Fondue & Sauce Warmer with Underplate.

Enameled cast iron fondue pots

Swissmar Lugano 9-Piece Cheese Fondue Set

This fondue set features a 2-quart enameled cast iron pot with a beautiful, rustic aesthetic. The cast iron construction ensures excellent heat retention, and the pot can be used directly on the stove, eliminating the need for an additional pot to melt the cheese. The set includes a wrought iron stand, a gel container for heat, and six fondue forks with three tines for secure holding. It is available for $120 at Amazon, Walmart, and Sur La Table.

Cuisinart Enamel Cast Iron Fondue Set

The Cuisinart Enamel Cast Iron Fondue Set is a comprehensive option, including a red pot, a cast iron base, and eight forks. This set provides a stylish and functional addition to your fondue experience. It is available on eBay, with prices varying based on the seller.

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Fondue Pot

Le Creuset offers a range of enameled cast iron fondue pots in various colours, including blue, red, orange, and white. These pots are known for their quality and durability. They are available in different sizes, such as 1.75 quarts and 0.25 quarts. You can find these pots on eBay, with prices varying by seller.

Staub Specialities Fondue Set

The Staub Specialities Fondue Set offers a range of size options, from 10 cm to 20 cm. This set is available in black and cherry colours, adding a stylish touch to your fondue experience. You can purchase this set directly from the ZWILLING online store.

When choosing an enameled cast iron fondue pot, consider the size that best suits your needs, whether you plan to use it for different types of fondue, and the number of people you typically host. These options provide a selection of features and designs to enhance your fondue dining and entertainment.

Cast iron fondue pots

Staub Mini Chocolate Fondue Set

This 1-cup cast iron fondue pot is perfect for individual servings or intimate gatherings. It comes with a tealight to keep your fondue warm, but it can also be used on a stovetop or induction burner. The Staub brand is known for its quality cast iron cookware, so you can trust that this fondue pot will deliver a great performance. It is also oven-safe up to 500˚F and dishwasher-safe, making it convenient and easy to use.

Swissmar Lugano Cast Iron Fondue Set

This gorgeous enameled cast iron fondue pot is perfect for a date night or a fancy party. It has a 2-quart capacity and comes with six forks, making it ideal for a small gathering. One of the standout features of this set is its versatility when it comes to heat sources. It can be used with a gel fuel burner, an electric burner, or even your stovetop. The wrought iron stand adds a touch of elegance to your fondue experience.

Artestia Cast Iron Fondue Pot Set

This cast iron fondue set from Artestia is perfect for those who want to serve a larger group. It comes with six fondue forks, allowing up to six people to enjoy fondue together. The set is suitable for chocolate, cheese, and meat fondue. It is available in both white and blue colours, adding a stylish touch to your fondue experience.

Twine Farmhouse Kitchen Enamel Cast Iron Fondue Set

For a rustic and charming fondue experience, the Twine Farmhouse Kitchen Enamel Cast Iron Fondue Set is a great choice. This set includes a metal stand, stainless steel forks, and a chrome gel burner. The off-cream colour and enamel finish give it a unique and elegant look.

Swissmar Sierra Cast Iron Fondue Set

The Swissmar Sierra Cast Iron Fondue Set is another excellent option for those seeking a traditional and stylish fondue pot. This set comes in two colour options: cherry red or gradient orange. It has a 1.6-quart capacity and includes everything you need to get started, such as a burner, stand, base, and mitts.

These cast iron fondue pot options offer a range of features and styles to suit your needs, whether you're looking for individual servings or larger gatherings. Cast iron is a great choice for fondue pots due to its heat retention properties, ensuring your delicious fondue stays warm and melted throughout your meal.

Frequently asked questions