Horst Mager's Rhineside Delight Fondue
Experience the rich, comforting flavors of Horst Mager's Rhineside Delight Fondue, a cherished recipe that originated from the beloved Rhinelander and Gustav's restaurants in Portland, Oregon. This cheese fondue offers a harmonious blend of creamy Swiss cheese combined with a robust Chardonnay wine, infused with aromatic garlic and a touch of spices. Perfect for gatherings, this fondue is not just a meal but an engaging experience for family and friends to dip toasted bread and savory smoked sausage into the gooey warmth of melted cheese. Whether you’re a fondue enthusiast or a first-timer, the simplicity and satisfaction of this dish will leave a lasting impression. Dive into this delightful experience and create lasting memories around the table.
4
Servings
575
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Processed Swiss Cheese
1.5 lbs (Cut into cubes (2 packages sliced Swiss American from Safeway or Winco))
Chardonnay Wine or Chablis
2 cups
Garlic Cloves
2 (Mashed)
White Pepper
1/2 teaspoon
Cayenne Pepper (optional)
1/8 teaspoon
Nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon
Rye Bread
1/2 loaf (Cut into 1/2 inch cubes and toasted)
French Bread
1/2 loaf (Cut into 1/2 inch cubes and toasted)
Smoked Sausage
1 lbs (Cut into 1/2-inch slices and browned in a skillet)
Instructions
1
Begin by chopping the processed Swiss cheese into cubes for easier melting.
2
In a double boiler, boiler the water in the bottom pot until it reaches a simmer.
3
In the top part of the double boiler, combine the Chardonnay wine, mashed garlic, nutmeg, white pepper, and cayenne pepper, bringing it to a gentle simmer for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. This will help reduce the wine and cook out the alcohol, allowing for a richer flavor.
4
Once the wine mixture has simmered down, add the cheese cubes into the hot wine mixture. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until the cheese has completely melted and forms a smooth, creamy texture.
5
If the fondue is too thick, gradually add more wine until your desired consistency is reached.
6
Transfer the melted cheese into a fondue pot to keep warm.
7
Prepare the accompaniments by cutting the rye and French bread into 1/2-inch cubes. Arrange them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated 400°F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8
For the smoked sausage, cut it into 1/2-inch slices and brown them in a skillet over medium-high heat until they are heated through and slightly crispy.
9
Serve the warm fondue alongside the toasted bread cubes and the browned sausage slices, encouraging guests to dip and enjoy. Feel free to explore additional dipping options such as apples, celery sticks, and cauliflower florets for a fresh, crunchy balance.
Nutrition Information
42.5g
Fat
30g
Carbs
22.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Horst Mager's Rhineside Delight Fondue?
It is a rich cheese fondue recipe originating from the Rhinelander and Gustav's restaurants in Portland, Oregon, featuring Swiss cheese and Chardonnay.
What type of cheese is used in this fondue?
The recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of processed Swiss cheese, specifically suggesting sliced Swiss American.
Which wine is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 2 cups of Chardonnay or Chablis wine.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What spices are used to season the fondue?
The seasoning includes white pepper, nutmeg, mashed garlic cloves, and optional cayenne pepper.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The 2 garlic cloves should be mashed before being added to the wine mixture.
What is the recommended way to melt the cheese?
Use a double boiler to simmer the wine and spices first, then gradually add cheese cubes, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon until smooth.
How long should the wine mixture simmer?
The wine, garlic, and spices should simmer for approximately 10 to 15 minutes to reduce the liquid and cook out the alcohol.
What should I do if the fondue is too thick?
If the consistency is too thick, gradually add more wine until you reach your desired smoothness.
What dipping accompaniments are recommended?
Toasted rye bread, French bread, and browned smoked sausage are the primary accompaniments.
How do I prepare the bread for dipping?
Cut the rye and French bread into 1/2-inch cubes and toast them in a 400 degree Fahrenheit oven for 10 to 15 minutes.
How should the smoked sausage be prepared?
The sausage should be cut into 1/2-inch slices and browned in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
Are there healthy dipping alternatives?
Yes, you can use fresh options like apples, celery sticks, and cauliflower florets for a crunchy balance.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 575 calories.
How much fat is in one serving of this fondue?
There are 42.5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 22.5 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is cayenne pepper a required ingredient?
No, the 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper is listed as an optional ingredient.
Where can I find the suggested Swiss American cheese?
The recipe suggests purchasing it from retailers like Safeway or Winco.
Why is a double boiler used?
A double boiler provides gentle, indirect heat which prevents the cheese from scorching or separating.
What tool should I use to stir the melting cheese?
The instructions recommend using a wooden spoon for continuous stirring.
How should the cheese be prepared before melting?
The Swiss cheese should be chopped into cubes to ensure easier and more even melting.
What is the primary category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized under Cheese.
How should the fondue be served to keep it warm?
Once melted and smooth, transfer the cheese into a dedicated fondue pot to maintain its temperature.
How much bread is needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 loaf of Rye bread and 1/2 loaf of French bread.
What total quantity of smoked sausage is required?
The recipe requires 1 lb of smoked sausage.
What are the key tags associated with this recipe?
Key tags include fondue, cheese, party food, appetizer, and comfort food.
Is there any fiber or sugar in this recipe?
According to the nutritional data provided, fiber and sugar levels are not specified (null).
What is the recommended bread cube size?
Bread should be cut into 1/2-inch cubes for the best dipping experience.
Does this recipe contain nutmeg?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg for added aroma and flavor.