Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Three-Cheese Fondue with Herbed New Potatoes?
It is a rich and velvety appetizer featuring a blend of cream cheese, Parmesan, and Gruyère served with tender red potatoes dressed in olive oil and fresh parsley.
What types of cheese are used in this recipe?
This recipe uses a combination of 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan, and 1/2 cup of grated Gruyère.
How should I prepare the new potatoes?
The potatoes should be left unpeeled, cut into 1-inch pieces, boiled in salted water until tender, and then tossed with extra virgin olive oil and fresh parsley.
Can I make the fondue and potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, both can be prepared a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
What is the best way to reheat the cheese fondue?
Whisk the fondue over medium heat for about 5 minutes until it becomes melted and smooth again.
How do I reheat the herbed potatoes?
Reheat the potatoes in a preheated 350°F oven for approximately 10 minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, according to the recipe tags, this dish is considered vegetarian-friendly.
What kind of potatoes work best for this fondue?
Large red potatoes are recommended, as they hold their shape well when boiled and skewered.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, the recipe calls for unpeeled potatoes to maintain texture and flavor.
How long does it take to sauté the onions?
The chopped onions should be sautéed over medium heat for about 4 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
What spices are used to season the cheese sauce?
The fondue is seasoned with ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
How long should the potatoes boil?
Boil the potatoes for about 6 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a skewer.
How do I serve this dish at a party?
Arrange the potatoes on a platter, spear each with a 6-inch skewer, and serve warm with the cheese fondue for dipping.
Can I adjust the consistency of the fondue?
Yes, you can add an additional 2 tablespoons of whipping cream to achieve your desired consistency.
What type of oil is used for the herb dressing?
Extra virgin olive oil is used to dress the potatoes after they are boiled.
What size skewers are recommended?
The recipe suggests using about 48 6-inch skewers for serving.
Should the cream cheese be at room temperature?
Yes, using cream cheese at room temperature ensures it melts more easily and smoothly into the sauce.
Is the Parmesan cheese pre-grated or fresh?
The recipe specifies using freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
What role does nutmeg play in the fondue?
Ground nutmeg adds a subtle, warm flavor that complements the richness of the three cheeses.
How much water is needed to boil the potatoes?
You will need 6 cups of water combined with 1 teaspoon of salt.
What is the first step in making the fondue?
The first step is heating olive oil in a heavy saucepan and sautéing chopped onions until soft.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
While fresh parsley is recommended for a vibrant flavor, you can use dried parsley, though the taste may be less bright.
What is the total number of ingredients?
There are 12 ingredients used in this recipe.
Is this dish intended as a main course or an appetizer?
It is primarily intended as an appetizer or a side dish for gatherings.
How do I know when the cheese mixture is ready?
The mixture is ready when it has been whisked together for about 3 minutes and is smooth and creamy.
What heat level should I use when mixing the cheeses?
Reduce the heat to low before adding the cream and cheeses to prevent burning.
Are there any specific tags for this recipe?
Tags include three-cheese fondue, new potatoes, appetizer, dipping food, and party food.
How many potatoes does the recipe require?
The recipe uses 1 lb of large red potatoes.
Can I substitute the Gruyère cheese?
While Gruyère is preferred for its melting properties, you could substitute it with Emmental or Swiss cheese.
Is it necessary to use a heavy saucepan?
A heavy saucepan is recommended to help distribute heat evenly and prevent the cheese from scorching.