Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 clove of garlic, minced; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon kirsch (cherry brandy); Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Nutmeg to taste

Highlighted under: Exotic Kitchen

I absolutely love cozy evenings where I can gather with friends and enjoy a communal dish, and that’s why I adore this Swiss cheese and garlic fondue. The aroma of the garlic blending with the rich cheese creates an inviting atmosphere that brings everyone together. I often serve this fondue with a variety of dippables like bread, vegetables, and even coated meats, allowing everyone to customize their experience. It's an interactive meal that's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy night in or a festive gathering.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:49:19.285Z

When I first tried making fondue, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet rewarding it was. I experimented with several cheeses, but the combination of Gruyère and Emmental really gave that classic Swiss taste. Adding garlic, which I sauté lightly before mixing into the cheese, enhances the flavor without overpowering it.

Another tip I discovered is that the quality of the cheese is crucial. Opting for freshly grated cheese rather than pre-packaged can make a noticeable difference in texture and taste, resulting in a smooth and creamy fondue. Pairing the fondue with crusty bread or blanched vegetables creates a delightful experience for the palate!

Why You'll Love This Fondue
Creamy, dreamy texture that envelops your chosen dippables
The delightful balance of Swiss cheese with aromatic garlic
Perfect for warming up gatherings with friends or family

Key Techniques for a Perfect Fondue

When making fondue, the technique of heating the wine gently cannot be overemphasized. Use medium heat and keep a close eye on it to avoid boiling, which can negatively affect the creaminess of the cheese. A gentle simmer is ideal as it allows the cheese to melt evenly and prevents it from clumping. Stir continuously to maintain an even temperature and ensure that the cheese incorporates smoothly without any grit.

Another vital technique is the order in which you add the cheese mixture. Gradually adding the cheese to the simmering wine while stirring is key to achieving that perfect silky texture. If added too quickly or at too high a temperature, the proteins can seize, resulting in a lumpy or gritty fondue. Aim for a steady pour and consistent stirring until it becomes glossy and smooth.

With fondue, the choice of cheese is essential, and here, Gruyère and Emmental work harmoniously together. Gruyère contributes depth with its nutty notes, while Emmental adds sweetness and excellent melting qualities. For a twist, feel free to substitute some of the Gruyère with a mild goat cheese or Fontina, but keep in mind that it may change the flavor profile.

Dippables to Elevate Your Fondue Experience

Selecting the right dippables can enhance the fondue experience significantly. While crusty French bread chunks are classic, consider adding a variety of textures and flavors. Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli or carrot sticks provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy cheese. Roasted potatoes can also be a satisfying addition; their starchy texture pairs beautifully with the gooey fondue.

For the adventurous, try including coated meats such as chicken or shrimp, which can be dipped in the cheese for a hearty bite. Consider pre-cooking the meats to ensure they're safe to eat, and serve them warm alongside your platter. Adding a hint of seasoning, such as a sprinkle of smoked paprika or garlic powder before serving can make these dippables even more enticing.

Don't forget about fruit! Apple slices or pear cubes can add a surprising sweetness that balances the sharpness of the cheese, making for an intriguing flavor combination. To ensure an interactive dining experience, present a large platter with an assortment of dippables so everyone can mix and match according to their taste.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create the perfect fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove of garlic, minced
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon kirsch (cherry brandy)
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Nutmeg to taste

Don’t forget your dippables! Fresh bread cubes, blanched vegetables like broccoli or carrots, and even cooked meats work wonderfully.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your fondue:

Prepare Garlic and Cheese

Rub the inside of your fondue pot with the minced garlic to infuse the flavor. Then, mix the grated cheeses with cornstarch in a bowl to prevent clumping.

Heat the Wine

In your fondue pot, heat the white wine and lemon juice over medium heat. Stir continuously to maintain an even temperature.

Combine Ingredients

Once the wine is simmering, gradually add the cheese mixture, stirring well after each addition until melted and smooth.

Add Final Touches

Stir in the kirsch, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Keep the fondue warm over a low flame.

Enjoy!

Serve immediately with your selection of dippables and enjoy the delightful, gooey experience!

Make sure to keep the fondue warm throughout your meal for the best experience.

Pro Tips

For a smoother fondue, always use a blend of cheeses and grate them yourself. Adjust the flavors with more garlic or spices based on your preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh and warm, but you can prepare some components in advance. Grate the cheeses and mix them with cornstarch the day before to save time. This pre-mixing also helps prevent the cheese from clumping when you’re ready to cook. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

If you have leftover fondue, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or a bit of water to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving as it can make the cheese tough and chewy, leading to an undesirable texture.

For those looking to host a fondue party, consider creating a fondue station with multiple pots and cheeses for a variety of flavors. Just remember that you may need to adjust the quantities of each ingredient based on the number of guests and how much each person might enjoy dipping!

Troubleshooting Common Fondue Issues

If your fondue appears gritty or is not melting smoothly, it's likely that the cheese was added too quickly or the heat was too high. To remedy this, lower the heat and stir continuously, allowing the cheese to melt slowly. If the texture remains lumpy, straining the mixture through a fine mesh sieve may salvage the fondue's creamy consistency.

In case your fondue has thickened too much after cooling, simply whisk in some warm wine to thin it out. This will reintroduce a smooth texture without losing flavor. Likewise, if it's too runny, you can thicken it by adding a little more cornstarch mixed in a small amount of cold water, and then stir this mixture back into the pot over low heat.

Lastly, if you've made your fondue a bit too strong in flavor, remember that a pinch of sugar can balance out excessive sharpness from the cheeses. It's a simple hack that can help adjust the taste to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, but sticking to Swiss-style cheeses gives you the best flavor.

→ What can I dip in the fondue?

Classic options include fresh bread, blanched veggies, and even bite-sized meats. Get creative with your choices!

→ How do I reheat leftover fondue?

Reheat gently on the stove with a little added wine or water, stirring until smooth.

→ Is fondue suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! The ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, but make sure any dippables are as well.