Fondue Dinner

A fondue dinner is a fantastic choice for a delightful and interactive dining experience. The rich and creamy cheese fondue, made with a combination of Swiss and Cheddar cheeses, offers a comforting and indulgent flavor. The tangy white wine and hint of lemon juice add a delightful brightness to the dish. The dipping items, including crusty bread, assorted vegetables, cooked meats, and fruits, provide a range of textures and flavors that perfectly complement the cheese fondue. Whether you’re sharing a meal with family or hosting a gathering with friends, this fondue dinner encourages engagement and conversation as everyone gathers around the fondue pot, spearing and dipping their favorite items. It’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories while savoring the delicious combination of melted cheese and various delectable ingredients.

Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Serving size: 4-6

Ingredients:

For the Cheese Fondue:

• 400g (14 oz) Swiss cheese (such as Gruyère or Emmental), grated
• 200g (7 oz) Cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 clove garlic, halved
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon kirsch (cherry brandy) (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg

For the Dipping Items:

• Crusty bread, cut into bite-sized cubes
• Vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, and baby carrots)
• Cooked meat (such as cubed chicken, steak, or cooked sausages)
• Apples or pears, sliced
• Assorted pickles (gherkins, cocktail onions, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheese Fondue:
   • Rub the inside of a fondue pot or a heavy-bottomed saucepan with the halved garlic clove.
   • Place the pot over medium heat and pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Heat until hot, but not boiling.
   • Gradually add the grated Swiss cheese and Cheddar cheese, stirring constantly in a figure-eight motion until melted and smooth.
   • In a small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the kirsch (if using). Stir the mixture into the cheese until well incorporated.
   • Continue cooking the cheese mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until thick and creamy.
   • Season with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg to taste.
2. Prepare the Dipping Items:
   • Cut the crusty bread into bite-sized cubes, and set aside.
   • Wash and prepare the vegetables, cutting them into manageable pieces for dipping. Blanch the broccoli florets briefly in boiling water until slightly tender, then drain and set aside.
   • Cook the meat (if necessary), and slice it into bite-sized pieces.
   • Slice the apples or pears into thin wedges.
3. Serve the Fondue Dinner:
   • Place the prepared fondue pot with the melted cheese mixture on a fondue stand or a heat source in the center of the dining table.
   • Arrange the dipping items around the fondue pot for easy access.
   • Provide long forks or skewers for dipping and cooking the items in the fondue.
   • Each person can select their desired item, spear it with a fork or skewer, and dip it into the cheese fondue, swirling to coat evenly.
   • Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures!

Note: Ensure caution when working with the fondue pot as it contains hot liquid. Keep the heat source at a suitable temperature to prevent scorching the cheese.