California Fondue Recipes

CHEESE FONDUE

Steps:

• Grate all of the cheeses. In a medium bowl, combine the cheeses with the cornstarch, tossing thoroughly to coat all pieces.
• In a stove-safe fondue pot or large heavy saucepan, bring the wine, garlic, and lemon juice to a simmer over medium-low heat. Add the cheeses to the simmering liquid a little at a time, stirring well between each addition to ensure a smooth fondue. Once smooth, stir in the brandy, mustard, and nutmeg.
• Arrange an assortment of bite-size dipping foods on a platter. If necessary, carefully pour the fondue into a fondue pot. Serve with fondue forks or wooden skewers. Dip and enjoy!

PERFECT FONDUE

Steps:

• Rub the inside of a saucepan with a garlic clove; leave the garlic in the pan. Add 1 cup dry white wine and 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons lemon juice; bring to a simmer over medium heat. Toss 1 pound shredded gruyere or other melting cheese (see below) with 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch; gradually add the cheese to the pan, stirring until melted before adding more. Discard the garlic and season the fondue with nutmeg and cayenne pepper. Transfer to a fondue pot or a slow cooker set to low. Serve with bread or other dippers.
• Big Dippers :
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Mini meatballs
• Grilled polenta
• Prosciutto or other cured meat
• French fries
• Choice Cheese:
• These are ideal for fondue. Use one or a combo.
• Brie (remove the rind)
• Manchego
• Cheddar
• Fontina
• Swiss or Emmentaler
• Gouda (young or aged)

CLASSIC FONDUE

Steps:

• Combine the raclette and Gruyere in a bowl and add the cornstarch. Toss well to coat the cheeses in the cornstarch; set aside.
• In a pot over medium heat, warm the wine, garlic and lemon zest. Do not allow this to come to a boil or the fondue may be grainy in the end.
• Slowly add the cheese mix a handful at a time, stirring and allowing each handful to melt completely before adding the next. Repeat until all the cheese is in the pot. Once completely smooth, stir in the kirsch, pepper and mustard. Pour the mixture into a fondue pot with a burner underneath to keep warm. Serve with Crusty Bread, apples and pears.
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
• Put the loaf of bread on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes to crisp. Allow to cool, then tear into chunks for serving. Set aside.