by Author Name Withheld 234

Created on: January 11, 2009   Last Updated: January 02, 2012

Notice anything springing up in your town lately? It's fondue! This Swiss based concept is coming back into the foodie world and it isn't hitting the breaks. Deliciousness is not the only reason people flock to it. Fondue brings people together over a pot of delicious cheese, baskets of bread, steamed veggies, and chopped fruits. One problem - it can be rather costly. For example, my husband treated me to a three course fondue meal and the bill racked up to more than one hundred dollars.The next day I stopped at the nearest culinary supplies store and armed myself with a professional fondue set. Since I know that I am not the only who loves fondue (if you are reading this I am sure you must love it too), I thought that I would help you create your own fondue dining experience in the comfort of your own home.

Fondue etiquette

Fondue is a group affair, thus there are some guidelines to keep the party fun. Refrain from using fingers to dip or grab any items that have fallen into the pot. Use a large spoon to retrieve your goodies! Another rule to follow is to spin the food while still on the skewer to allow excess cheese to drop back into the pot. Last but not least...no double dipping!

The Fondue

The first step that you need to take if you havent already done so is to equip your kitchen with a fondue set or a thick bottomed pot and metal skewers. I suggest investing in a high quality fondue set from All-Clad or Cuisinart because it will last you forever! Planning a fondue night can be great as long as you have the right ingredients and enthusiasm.Hosting a fondue party can be so exciting because you do not have the constraints of a restaurant. Try throwing a movie night, book club, or a themed dinner party! Whether you have been making fondue for years or this will be your first time, each recipe has guidelines, tips, and cooking levels to help make your fondue party a tasty affair!

Beginners Fondue: Cheddar and Beer Fondue

1lb sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded

3/4 cup beer

1 tbsp. flour

Dash of hot sauce

1 1/4tsp dry mustard

2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

In a bowl combine all ingredients, except the wet ingredients. Mix. Heat the fondue pot up to about 350-375 degrees. Add the beer and Worcestershire sauce. Heat until it begins to bubble. Slowly add the cheese mixture, stirring between additions to guarantee that it melts smoothly and does not clump. After all of the cheese has melted add the hot sauce and turn the pot down to 2-3.

Serve with crusty French bread

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>