Fondue with Smoked Cheese

Name: Fondue with Smoked Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g smoked cheese, grated; 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Blanched vegetables (broccoli, carrots, etc.); Apple slices; Cooked sausage or meat bites

Highlighted under: Cultural World Food Favorites

I absolutely love making fondue, especially when I can incorporate the rich flavor of smoked cheese. As I dip in freshly baked bread or crisp vegetables, the warm, gooey cheese envelops each bite in a comforting embrace. This recipe not only brings a cozy ambiance to gatherings but also allows for creativity with dipping options. I find that combining different types of smoked cheese elevates the flavor, making it a memorable dish for sharing with friends and family. Trust me, you'll want to keep this recipe close!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:42:35.452Z

When I first tried making fondue with smoked cheese at home, I was amazed by how versatile this dish can be. I experimented with different pairings, and it quickly became one of my go-to recipes for gatherings. The subtle smokiness from the cheese adds depth that highlights the simple ingredients while keeping things exciting.

One tip I discovered is to add a splash of dry white wine to the cheese mixture. It not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that perfect creamy consistency. Trust me, your guests will be raving about it!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, smoky flavor from the cheese
Creamy texture that pulls and stretches delightfully
A fun and interactive way to enjoy meals with friends
Perfect for cozy nights in or festive parties

      

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Blend

The choice of cheese plays a crucial role in the final flavor profile of your fondue. Smoke-infused varieties, like smoked Gouda or smoked cheddar, not only contribute their distinct flavors but also melt beautifully. I recommend using half smoked cheese and half Gruyère to balance the rich smokiness with Gruyère's nutty notes. Always grate your cheese rather than cubing it; this ensures a smoother melt and creamier texture, leading to a fondue that pulls delightfully with each dip.

When selecting your cheeses, consider the moisture content as well. A drier cheese, like Gruyère, will melt better and create a cohesive, silky sauce. If using creamier cheeses, be mindful as they can cause the fondue to become too oily. For a lighter option, you can swap some Gruyère for a part-skim mozzarella. However, always retain a solid base of smoked cheese to maintain that signature flavor.

Understanding Your Heat

The temperature at which you heat your wine is crucial for achieving the ideal fondue consistency. Aim for a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil; this helps to maintain the wine's flavors while heating it uniformly. A boiling wine can introduce bitterness that detracts from the fondue’s overall taste. I usually keep an eye on it, aiming for tiny bubbles rather than a bubbling cauldron, which takes about 5-7 minutes on medium heat.

As you gradually stir in the cheese, keep the heat low to avoid scorching the cheese and causing a grainy texture. If you notice any lumps forming, just continue to stir and lower the heat further; in most cases, it will eventually smooth out. Your patience is key here—allowing the cheese to melt slowly will yield a velvety fondue everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Fondue Mixture

200g smoked cheese, grated
200g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Dipping Options

Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Blanched vegetables (broccoli, carrots, etc.)
Apple slices
Cooked sausage or meat bites

Feel free to customize the dipping options based on your preferences!

Instructions

Prepare the Fondue Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves to impart a mild garlic flavor. Discard the garlic after rubbing.

Mix the Cheese

In a large bowl, combine the grated smoked cheese and Gruyère. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the cheese mixture and toss to coat evenly.

Heat the Wine

In the fondue pot, bring the wine and lemon juice to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Season with black pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the pot to a heat source or burner. Serve with your favorite dipping items!

Enjoy your homemade fondue with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try adding herbs like thyme or a pinch of nutmeg to your cheese mixture.

Variations to Try

For an exciting twist, consider adding herbs or spices to your fondue. Fresh thyme or rosemary can enhance the smoky flavor, while a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth. You could also experiment with a splash of brandy or a hint of truffle oil just before serving for a gourmet touch, which can elevate an ordinary fondue into something truly remarkable.

If you're catering to specific dietary preferences, feel free to substitute the dairy. Nut-based cheeses or popular vegan cheese blends are available that melt well and can provide a similar texture. Just ensure whatever alternative you choose maintains the creamy and stretchy quality that fondue is celebrated for.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Fondue can be somewhat tricky to store, but it’s manageable if you follow a few tips. After your gathering, let any remaining fondue cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, be sure to use low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy or burnt. Adding a splash of wine can help regain that luscious texture.

If you have a significant amount left, consider turning it into a creamy pasta sauce or topping for a baked potato. Just warming it with a bit of cream can create a luxurious alternative dish that minimizes waste and maximizes flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various cheeses, but ensure at least one is a strong melting cheese.

→ What can I use instead of wine?

You can substitute with vegetable or chicken broth, but the flavor might be slightly different.

→ How do I keep the fondue warm during serving?

Use a fondue burner or a candle holder to maintain the heat while serving.

→ Can I make this in advance?

It's best to prepare it fresh for optimal texture, but you can prep the cheese mixture ahead of time.