Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental

Name: Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyere cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 300ml dry white wine; 1 clove of garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Black pepper, to taste; Nutmeg, to taste; Crusty bread, cubed, for dipping; Fresh vegetables, for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental as it turns any gathering into a cozy, delightful experience. The rich flavors of these Swiss cheeses blend wonderfully, creating a smooth, melty texture that's perfect for dipping. Whenever I prepare this fondue, I relish the process of choosing the right ingredients, warming the cheese, and inviting friends to partake in this communal dish. It's a wonderful way to engage and create lasting memories, as each bite is a shared treasure of comfort and joy.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:16:08.000Z

During one of our winter evenings, I decided it was time to whip up a Fondue with Gruyere and Emmental. The combination of these two cheeses not only offers a rich and nutty flavor but also creates a deliciously creamy dip. I learned that slowly melting the cheese with the right white wine can make a significant difference in texture. Plus, a touch of garlic elevates the flavors beautifully.

One tip I discovered is to keep the fondue pot over low heat to maintain the perfect consistency without burning the cheese. Serving it with cubes of crusty bread and fresh vegetables made for a delightful experience. Each dip was an invitation to share laughter and stories, making it a memorable evening for everyone involved.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, rich cheese blend that warms the heart
Perfect for gatherings with family and friends
Fun and interactive dining experience

      

Choosing the Right Cheese

The choice of cheese is crucial for an authentic fondue experience. Gruyere and Emmental are traditional Swiss cheeses that offer depth of flavor and a delightful creamy texture. Gruyere provides a nutty sweetness, while Emmental adds a mild, rich taste. For a slightly sharper flavor, consider adding a touch of aged Gouda or a small amount of raclette cheese to enhance the complexity of your fondue.

If you're looking to make the fondue gluten-free, ensure that the cornstarch is pure and from a reliable source. Additionally, you can use a dry gluten-free white wine, which will retain the flavor profile without altering the texture. Substituting the cheese can also yield different flavors, but be cautious; not all cheeses melt in the same way.

Mastering the Melting Process

When melting the cheese, it's important to use low heat and a heavy-bottomed pot to avoid scorching. Stir the cheese mixture continuously with a wooden spatula in a figure-eight motion. This technique encourages even melting and prevents clumping. Aim for a temperature of around 150°F (65°C) for ideal results; this allows the cheese to melt fully without separating or becoming stringy.

Visual cues are key here—watch for the moment when the cheeses become glossy and smooth. If it looks grainy, it may be cooking too fast. If this happens, try lowering the heat and stirring more vigorously to bring it back together. Adding too much wine at once can also lead to a broken sauce, so add gradually and monitor the texture.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth preparation:

Ingredients for Fondue

200g Gruyere cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
300ml dry white wine
1 clove of garlic, halved
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Black pepper, to taste
Nutmeg, to taste
Crusty bread, cubed, for dipping
Fresh vegetables, for dipping

Ensure everything is well-prepared and ready to serve for the best fondue experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove, then discard the garlic. This infuses a subtle flavor into the pot.

Melt the Cheese

In the pot, combine the grated Gruyere and Emmental cheese with white wine and lemon juice. Stir on low heat until melted and smooth.

Thicken the Mixture

Mix the cornstarch with a little wine until smooth, then add to the cheese mixture to thicken. Stir continuously.

Season and Serve

Once smooth, add black pepper and nutmeg to taste. Keep warm and serve with bread and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your fondue while it’s warm, and remember to keep it at a consistent low heat during serving.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality cheese and a good dry white wine. Experiment with adding herbs or spices to customize your fondue.

Dipping Ingredients and Pairings

The magic of fondue isn't just in the cheese; it's also about what you dip into it. Classic choices include cubed crusty bread, which soaks up the creamy cheese beautifully. Baguette, sourdough, or even rye bread can offer delightful variations in flavor and texture. Additionally, fresh vegetables such as blanched broccoli, cauliflower florets, or bell pepper strips provide a wonderful crunch and a hint of freshness that balances the richness.

For a unique twist, consider including cured meats like salami or prosciutto. They introduce a savory contrast to the creamy cheese. If you're accommodating dietary restrictions, gluten-free options like rice crackers or even roasted potatoes can also serve as excellent dippers.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover fondue, cool it down to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It usually keeps well for about 2-3 days. Reheating fondue requires gentle heat; place it back in a double boiler or a fondue pot over low heat. Stir often and add a splash of white wine to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving as it can lead to uneven heating and result in stringy cheese.

To make ahead, you can prep the cheese blend and store it separately from the liquid components. When you're ready, just combine them in the pot and heat it up, following the melting instructions. This way, you can enjoy a delicious fondue without too much hassle when it's time to feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or a sharp cheddar, but keep the ratios similar for optimal melting.

→ What if my cheese is too thick?

You can add a little more wine to loosen the cheese mixture. Stir while adding to achieve the desired consistency.

→ Is there a non-alcoholic version?

You can substitute white wine with non-alcoholic white grape juice mixed with a bit of vinegar for acidity.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove while stirring to retain its texture.