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Fondue is the perfect dish to bring people together, whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or simply indulging in a cozy meal at home. The warm, melted cheese or chocolate paired with fresh bread and vegetables creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make a delicious fondue with bread and veggies, perfect for any occasion!

What is Fondue?

Fondue originates from Switzerland and traditionally involves melting cheese in a pot, which is then served with bread cubes to dip. Over time, this dish has evolved into many variations, from savory cheese fondues to sweet chocolate fondues. Today, we’re focusing on the classic savory cheese fondue, but feel free to get creative with your dipping options.

The Basics of Fondue with Bread & Veggies

To create the perfect fondue experience, you’ll need the following elements:

1. Cheese: A blend of Swiss cheese (like Gruyère) and French cheese (like Emmental) is traditional, but you can get creative with your selection based on your preferences.
2. Bread: A crusty, hearty bread is essential for scooping up the cheese. Consider baguette, sourdough, or even a whole-grain bread for a nutty flavor.
3. Vegetables: The addition of fresh veggies adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy, savory cheese. Popular choices include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, and even roasted vegetables.

Ingredients for a Classic Cheese Fondue

For the Cheese Base:

• 2 cups of Gruyère cheese (grated)
• 2 cups of Emmental cheese (grated)
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
• 1 clove garlic (sliced in half)
• 1 1/2 cups dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Freshly ground black pepper and nutmeg (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Kirsch (cherry brandy), optional, for added depth

For the Dipping:

• 1 French baguette or sourdough bread, cut into bite-sized cubes
• Assorted fresh vegetables: broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers (sliced), cauliflower, carrots, and zucchini (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Roasted vegetables (optional): roasted potatoes, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes

How to Make Fondue with Bread & Veggies

1. Prepare the Fondue Pot: Start by rubbing the inside of your fondue pot with the garlic halves. This will infuse a subtle flavor into your cheese as it melts.
2. Grate the Cheese: Grate the cheeses finely. This helps them melt smoothly, avoiding clumps.
3. Cook the Fondue: Pour the wine and lemon juice into the pot and heat gently over medium heat. Once the mixture is warm, slowly add the grated cheese, a handful at a time, stirring constantly in a figure-eight motion. Once melted, stir in the cornstarch (which helps thicken the fondue) and continue to stir until the cheese is smooth and velvety.
4. Season the Cheese: Add freshly ground black pepper and nutmeg to taste. For an extra kick, you can also add a splash of Kirsch.
5. Prepare the Dipping Items: While the fondue is simmering, prepare your bread and vegetables. Cut the bread into cubes that are easy to spear with a fondue fork. For the veggies, blanch or steam the broccoli and cauliflower until just tender. Raw vegetables, like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini, can be served as they are.
6. Set the Table: Place the fondue pot on a trivet or heat source to keep it warm while you dip. Arrange the bread cubes and vegetables around the pot, ready for dipping. Don’t forget to provide fondue forks for each person!

Tips for a Perfect Fondue Experience

• Use the Right Cheese: The key to a smooth and flavorful fondue is choosing a good cheese. Gruyère and Emmental are classic options, but feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or gouda.
• Control the Heat: Don’t rush the melting process. Keep the heat on low to avoid burning the cheese, and make sure to stir continuously.
• Add Variety: Mix up the vegetables! Roasted sweet potatoes, mushrooms, or asparagus can be great additions to the platter. Also, you could consider adding fruits like apples or pears if you want a sweet and savory combination.
• Make It a Meal: For a heartier meal, serve the fondue with a side salad, some crusty bread, or even a light soup.

Fondue Pairing Ideas

For the perfect pairing, opt for a light, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling beverage like apple cider. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, a crisp apple or pear cider works wonderfully.

Why Fondue with Bread & Veggies Is Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy date night, or a party with friends, fondue is an interactive and fun meal that encourages connection. The act of dipping and sharing adds to the experience, making it not just a meal but a memorable moment. The combination of warm, gooey cheese with the crunch of fresh veggies and bread is sure to delight everyone around the table.