Ultimate Alpine Cheese Fondue
Indulge in the rich, creamy experience of our Ultimate Alpine Cheese Fondue. Combining the delectable flavors of Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, this classic dish is elevated with a touch of kirsch and the aromatic depth of garlic. Perfect for gatherings, this fondue is not just a meal—it's a communal experience that brings friends and family together. Serve alongside crusty bread, savory salami, and tart dill pickles for a delightful contrast that will have everyone coming back for more!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Gruyère cheese
1 lb (coarsely shredded)
Emmental cheese
1/2 lb (coarsely shredded)
Cornstarch
1 1/2 tablespoons (none)
Garlic clove
1 (halved)
Dry white wine
1 cup (none)
Kirsch
1 tablespoon (none)
Salt
to taste (none)
Fresh ground white pepper
to taste (none)
Crusty hard bread
for serving (sliced)
Hard salami
for serving (sliced)
Dill pickle
1 small (for serving)
Instructions
1
In a bowl, combine the Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with the cornstarch, tossing well to coat the cheese evenly.
2
Take a garlic clove and slice it in half. Rub the inside of a cheese fondue pot or a medium enameled cast-iron casserole with the cut sides of the garlic to impart flavor.
3
Pour the dry white wine into the fondue pot and heat over medium until it reaches a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
4
Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon. Continue stirring over moderate low heat until the cheese melts completely and the mixture is smooth, about 5 to 7 minutes.
5
Once melted, stir in the kirsch and season with salt and freshly ground white pepper to taste.
6
Transfer to a fondue stand to keep warm. Serve immediately with slices of crusty hard bread, hard salami, and small dill pickles. Enjoy dipping and savoring!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate Alpine Cheese Fondue?
It is a rich, creamy dish combining Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with wine, garlic, and kirsch for a classic communal dining experience.
What types of cheese are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1 lb of Gruyère cheese and 1/2 lb of Emmental cheese.
How should the cheese be prepared?
Both the Gruyère and Emmental cheeses should be coarsely shredded before use.
Why is cornstarch added to the cheese?
Cornstarch is used to coat the cheese evenly, which helps it melt smoothly and prevents the fondue from separating.
How do you flavor the fondue pot with garlic?
Slice a garlic clove in half and rub the cut sides against the inside of the fondue pot or casserole dish.
What kind of wine is recommended for this fondue?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of dry white wine.
At what temperature should the wine be heated?
The wine should be heated over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer.
How should the cheese mixture be added to the wine?
The cheese mixture should be added gradually to the simmering wine while stirring continuously.
What tool is best for stirring the cheese?
A wooden spoon is recommended for stirring the cheese mixture until it is smooth.
How long does it take for the cheese to melt completely?
It typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes over moderate low heat.
When should the kirsch be added?
Kirsch should be stirred into the mixture once the cheese has completely melted and is smooth.
How much kirsch is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of kirsch.
What seasonings are suggested?
Salt and freshly ground white pepper are added to taste.
What are the recommended dippers for this fondue?
Slices of crusty hard bread, hard salami, and small dill pickles are suggested.
How do you keep the fondue warm while eating?
Transfer the mixture to a fondue stand to maintain the heat during serving.
Can I use an enameled cast-iron casserole instead of a fondue pot?
Yes, a medium enameled cast-iron casserole is a suitable alternative for preparing the fondue.
What is the purpose of the garlic rub?
Rubbing the pot with garlic imparts a subtle aromatic depth to the cheese mixture without leaving large chunks of garlic.
What flavor profile can I expect?
The fondue offers a savory, rich, and creamy profile with a touch of tartness from the wine and kirsch.
Is this recipe good for groups?
Yes, it is described as a communal experience perfect for gatherings of friends and family.
How much cornstarch is needed?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 tablespoons of cornstarch.
What kind of bread is best for dipping?
A crusty hard bread that is sliced works best to hold up to the thick cheese.
What role do dill pickles play in the meal?
The tart dill pickles provide a delightful contrast to the rich and savory cheese.
Can I substitute white pepper with black pepper?
While white pepper is traditional for maintaining the light color of the cheese, you can use black pepper if white pepper is unavailable.
Does the wine need to boil?
No, the wine should only reach a gentle simmer before you start adding the cheese.
Is the garlic minced into the cheese?
No, the garlic is only used to rub the pot for flavor and is not mixed into the final cheese sauce.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients in total, including items for serving.
What is the texture of the final fondue?
The final texture should be completely smooth and creamy.
Can I add more salt?
Yes, salt and pepper should be added according to your personal taste preference.
Should the heat be high when melting the cheese?
No, the heat should be moderate low to prevent the cheese from scorching or becoming rubbery.
What category of food is this considered?
It is categorized as an appetizer, dinner, or party food with a comfort food and Alpine theme.