Fondue set and accesories

What are the different types of fondue?

There are several types of fondue, each with its own variation and culinary tradition. Here are some of the most popular types of fondue:

Cheese fondue

Cheese fondue is one of the most well-known. It involves melting cheese (usually Swiss, Gruyère, Comté, or other similar cheeses) with white wine and garlic. Bread, vegetables, or other foods are then dipped into the fondue.

Chinese fondue

Chinese fondue involves dipping thin slices of meat (usually beef or chicken) into a simmering broth to cook them. The pieces of meat are then dipped in various sauces.

Burgundy fondue

Similar to Chinese fondue, fondue bourguignonne involves dipping meat, often beef, into hot oil to fry it.

Broth fondue

This variation of fondue involves cooking pieces of meat, fish, or vegetables in a flavored broth. It's a lighter option than cheese fondue or Chinese fondue.

Chocolate fondue

For dessert, you can make a chocolate fondue. Melt chocolate and dip fruit, marshmallows, pieces of cake, or other sweets into it.

Raclette fondue

This variation of cheese fondue involves scraping melted cheese over potatoes, cold cuts, and other side dishes.

Seafood fondue

In this case, seafood (such as shrimp, scallops or lobster) is dipped in broth or melted butter.

Caramel fondue

A dessert variation, caramel fondue involves melting caramel and using it to dip fruit or other sweets.

Each type of fondue offers a unique culinary experience and is often associated with specific social and family rituals.

What accompaniments for fondue?

Fondue side dishes depend on the type of fondue you are making. Here are some side dish ideas for different types of fondue:

Cheese fondue

• Cubes of bread (usually baguette, country bread or nut bread).
• Steamed potatoes.
• Raw vegetables (cucumbers, peppers, cauliflower, broccoli).
• Delicatessen (sausages, raw ham).
• Pickles, pickled onions.
• Fruits (apples, pears).

Chinese fondue and Burgundy fondue

• Thin slices of meat (beef, chicken, pork).
• Broth or hot oil for cooking.
• Dipping sauces (soy sauce, peanut sauce, sesame sauce).
• Cooked noodles (often at the end of a meal).

Broth fondue

• Lean meat (chicken, turkey, pork).
• Fish (salmon, shrimp).
• Vegetables (carrots, celery, mushrooms).
• Flavored broth.

Chocolate fondue

• Fresh fruit (bananas, strawberries, apples).
• Marshmallows.
• Pieces of cake (sponge cake, brownies).
• Biscuits (lady biscuits, pretzels).

Raclette fondue

• Steamed potatoes.
• Delicatessen (ham, salami).
• Pickles.
• Pickled onions.

Seafood fondue

• Seafood (shrimp, scallops, lobster).
• Broth or melted butter.
• Bread to accompany.

Caramel fondue

• Fruits (bananas, apples).
• Small cakes or pieces of sponge cake.

Be sure to adapt the side dishes to suit your guests' preferences and the type of fondue you're serving. A variety of side dishes adds flavor and texture to the fondue experience.

Traditional or electric fondue?

Traditional Fondue Services

Traditional Experience: Traditional fondue sets, such as alcohol-heated pots or fondue pans, offer a more authentic and rustic experience.

Portability: Traditional fondue sets are generally more compact and easy to transport. You can use them indoors or outdoors.

Variety of Styles: You can choose from different styles of traditional fondue sets, including those specially designed for cheese fondue, broth fondue, Chinese fondue, etc.

Conviviality: Traditional fondue sets encourage closer social interaction, as guests must gather around the pot to cook and share.

Manual Control: With traditional services, you have to monitor the heat source, which may require a little more attention to maintain the desired temperature.

Electric Fondue Services

Ease of use: Electric fondue sets are generally easy to use. You simply plug in the unit, set the temperature, and you're ready to melt.

Constant Temperature: Electric appliances maintain a constant temperature, making fondue preparation easier. You don't have to worry about the heat source weakening.

Versatility: Some electric fondue sets offer the ability to adjust the temperature for different types of fondue, such as cheese, meat, or chocolate.

Safety: Electrical services are often considered safer because there are no open flames. This may be preferable if you have young children around.

Cleaning: Most electrical appliances have removable parts that are easy to clean. This simplifies the cleaning process after use.

The choice between a traditional fondue set and Choosing an electric fondue set depends on your personal preferences for convenience, style, and authenticity. Both types offer a pleasant fondue experience; you just need to choose the one that best suits your needs.