Cheese fondue

Cheese Fondue Recipe - A Vegetarian Dish from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Cheese fondue is a classic dish that originated in Switzerland. It is a delicious and indulgent dish that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. The creamy and cheesy mixture is typically served with cubes of bread for dipping.

History

Cheese fondue has been enjoyed in Switzerland for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the 18th century as a way for Swiss villagers to use up leftover cheese and bread during the winter months. The dish became popular in the United States in the 1960s and has since become a staple at dinner parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

1 cup creamed cottage cheese
0.25 cup milk
2 tbsp butter or margarine
1.5 tbsp cornstarch
1 dash garlic powder
0.25 tsp dry mustard
0.75 cup milk
4 oz (113 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 oz (57 g) shredded swiss cheese
1 lb (454 g) loaf french bread, cut into cubes

How to prepare

1. In a blender, mix 0.25 cup of milk with cottage cheese until smooth.
2. Melt the fat in a saucepan.
3. Stir in cornstarch, garlic powder, and dry mustard until well mixed.
4. Add 0.75 cup of milk.
5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 2 to 3 minutes).
6. Reduce the heat.
7. Stir in the cottage cheese mixture.
8. Add the remaining cheeses and stir until melted.
9. Serve with cubes of French bread for dipping into the fondue mixture.
10. Note: If desired, the fondue can be transferred to a preheated fondue pot or chafing dish.
11. Keep the fondue hot during serving by using an alcohol burner, canned heat, or candle burner.
12. Calories per serving: about 210°F (99°C) for the fondue mixture, without bread.

Variations

Add a splash of white wine or beer to the fondue for extra flavor.
Mix in some herbs or spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika, for a different taste.
Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Emmental, or mozzarella, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a good quality cheese for the fondue, as the flavor of the dish will depend on the cheese you choose.

- Stir the fondue constantly while cooking to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.

- If the fondue becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little more milk.

- Serve the fondue with a variety of dippers, such as bread, vegetables, and fruit.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cheese fondue with cubes of French bread, boiled potatoes, steamed vegetables, or sliced apples for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Use a double boiler or fondue pot to keep the fondue warm while serving.

- Stir the fondue constantly to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pan.

- Adjust the heat as needed to keep the fondue at a smooth and creamy consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use different types of cheese in the fondue, depending on your preference.

- Substitute butter for margarine if desired.

- Use gluten-free bread or crackers for dipping if you have a gluten allergy.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese mixture for the fondue ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Keep it warm in a fondue pot or slow cooker until ready to eat.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the cheese fondue in a decorative fondue pot or chafing dish. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the cheese fondue with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cheese fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cheese fondue contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cheese fondue contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of cheese fondue contains approximately 14 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of cheese fondue contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cheese fondue is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Cheese fondue contains dairy and gluten from the bread, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten allergies.

Summary

Cheese fondue is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in calories, fats, and proteins. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Cheese fondue is a delicious and indulgent dish that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. With its creamy and cheesy mixture, it is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy this classic dish with a variety of dippers and pair it with a glass of wine for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe. It was during a trip to the Swiss Alps with my husband many years ago. We were staying at a cozy chalet nestled in the mountains, surrounded by breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and pine forests. One evening, our hosts invited us to join them for a traditional Swiss fondue dinner.

As we gathered around the table, I watched in awe as our hostess prepared the cheese fondue. She started by rubbing a clove of garlic on the inside of the fondue pot, then poured in a generous amount of dry white wine. Next, she added a mixture of grated Swiss cheeses, stirring constantly until the cheese melted into a smooth and creamy consistency. Finally, she sprinkled in a bit of cornstarch and kirsch, a cherry brandy, to thicken the fondue and give it a subtle kick.

As we dipped cubes of crusty bread into the bubbling pot of cheese, I knew I had to learn how to make this decadent dish myself. Our hostess graciously shared her recipe with me, explaining each step with patience and kindness. I took notes diligently, making sure to capture every detail so that I could recreate the magic of Swiss fondue back home.

When we returned from our trip, I wasted no time in trying out the recipe. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen, following the instructions I had written down. The scent of garlic and wine filled the air as the cheese melted into a velvety pool of goodness. I couldn't help but smile as I stirred the pot, knowing that I was one step closer to mastering the art of cheese fondue.

After a few attempts, I finally perfected my own version of the recipe. I invited friends and family over for a fondue night, eager to share my newfound culinary skills with them. As we dipped and indulged in the rich and gooey cheese, I reveled in the joy of bringing people together through food.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my cheese fondue recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste. I have shared it with countless friends and family members, each time receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. It has become a staple at our holiday gatherings and dinner parties, a dish that never fails to impress and delight.

I have since learned that cheese fondue is more than just a dish - it is a symbol of warmth, hospitality, and togetherness. It brings people together around a communal pot, sparking conversations and creating memories that last a lifetime. I am grateful to have stumbled upon this recipe during that fateful trip to the Swiss Alps, as it has opened up a world of culinary exploration and shared experiences.

As I sit here, writing down the story of how I learned to make cheese fondue, I am filled with a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that comes from discovering new recipes and sharing them with loved ones. And so, I will continue to make cheese fondue for years to come, passing down the recipe to future generations and spreading the love and warmth that it embodies.