Classic Cheese Fondue – Perfect for Cozy Gatherings
There’s nothing quite like gathering around a bubbling pot of cheese fondue with friends or family. This classic Swiss dish is a warm, creamy blend of cheeses, wine, and a hint of garlic, perfect for dipping crusty bread, vegetables, or even fruit. It’s an interactive and fun meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or just craving a cheesy snack, this cheese fondue will leave everyone satisfied.
Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic, halved
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 200g Gruyère cheese, grated
- 200g Emmental cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons kirsch (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Nutmeg, to taste
- Cubes of crusty bread, vegetables, or fruit for dipping
Directions
Prepare the pot. Rub the inside of your fondue pot (or a heavy-bottomed saucepan) with the halved garlic clove to infuse the flavor. Discard the garlic afterward.
Heat the wine. Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Do not boil.
Add the cheese. Gradually add the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, stirring continuously in a figure-eight motion to prevent clumping.
Thicken the fondue. Dissolve the cornstarch in the kirsch (if using), or a bit of water, and stir it into the cheese mixture. Keep stirring until the fondue becomes smooth and creamy.
Season. Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper and a little grated nutmeg to taste. Continue stirring until the fondue is fully melted and smooth.
Serve. Transfer the cheese fondue to a heated fondue pot if it was prepared in a saucepan. Place the pot on a fondue stand with a small flame to keep it warm. Serve with cubes of bread, vegetables, or fruits for dipping.
Recipe tips
Using high-quality cheese like Gruyère and Emmental will result in a smoother, richer fondue. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses as they may not melt well. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the white wine with a mixture of chicken broth and a little lemon juice. Crusty French bread is the traditional choice, but you can also dip steamed vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or even apple slices for a sweet contrast. Stirring in a figure-eight motion while melting the cheese helps to prevent separation and creates a creamy texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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