Fondue with White Wine and Garlic

Name: Fondue with White Wine and Garlic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of gruyère cheese, grated; 2 cups of emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup of dry white wine; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon of lemon juice; 1 tablespoon of cornstarch; Pinch of nutmeg; Freshly ground black pepper; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Fresh vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots) for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore this Fondue with White Wine and Garlic recipe! It's a delightful dish that's perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or special celebrations. The blend of rich cheese with the aromatic garlic, complemented by a touch of white wine, creates an indulgent dip that pairs beautifully with fresh bread and vegetables. I love how simple yet special this dish feels, making it an instant favorite among friends and family. Let me share my tips to ensure your fondue is perfectly velvety and bursting with flavor.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:16:11.127Z

Creating this fondue was an adventure in itself! I experimented with a mix of cheeses to achieve that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The addition of white wine not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that silky consistency. I discovered that using a dry white wine brings out the best notes in the cheese.

To elevate the experience, I roasted the garlic beforehand to soften its sharpness. The result? A deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for dipping crusty bread or fresh veggies. Trust me, this will quickly become a crowd favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy, gooey cheese that's perfect for dipping
Aromatic garlic infuses a unique depth of flavor
Great for social gatherings or a cozy night in

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

The combination of gruyère and emmental cheeses is what defines this fondue's creamy texture and distinct flavor. Gruyère offers a nutty, slightly sweet profile that melts beautifully, while emmental adds a mild, buttery undertone. Opting for pre-grated cheese can compromise texture, as the anti-caking agents can inhibit melt quality. For the best results, shred your own cheese just before use to achieve a velvety result.

You can experiment with cheese varieties if you're looking for a twist. For instance, mixing in a small amount of raclette can add a strong, savory element, or using aged cheddar can introduce a sharper sensation. Just ensure you maintain the balance of moisture and fat between the cheeses to avoid a gritty texture when melted.

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

Heating your garlic correctly is critical for enhancing its flavor without bitterness. Sauté it gently in a fondue pot over medium heat, stirring frequently for about a minute, just until fragrant. If it browns too much, it can turn bitter, affecting the dip's taste. Keep close attention during this step for the best aromatic result.

When adding the cheese to the simmering wine, do so gradually while constantly stirring. This helps to incorporate the cheeses smoothly, resulting in an evenly melted fondue. If the mixture starts to clump, lower the heat and continue stirring vigorously until smooth and glossy, which usually takes around 5-10 minutes.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftover fondue, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, slowly warm it over low heat, stirring frequently. This helps to reintegrate the ingredients without separating the cheese. Alternatively, adding a splash of white wine during reheating can restore creaminess and flavor.

For an elegant twist on the traditional fondue experience, consider serving it with a variety of dippers beyond crusty bread and vegetables. Options like cured meats, pickles, or even roasted potatoes can elevate the dish. Additionally, skewers can make dipping more fun and less messy during your gathering.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

2 cups of gruyère cheese, grated
2 cups of emmental cheese, grated
1 cup of dry white wine
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
1 tablespoon of cornstarch
Pinch of nutmeg
Freshly ground black pepper
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Fresh vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots) for dipping

Make sure to prepare a good selection of dippables to enjoy with your fondue!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated gruyère and emmental cheeses with cornstarch and toss well to coat.

Sauté Garlic

In a fondue pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Wine

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, then bring to a simmer.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

Add a pinch of nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately with bread and vegetables for dipping.

Keep the fondue warm on a low flame as you enjoy!

Pro Tips

For the best results, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure the cheese melts evenly. Also, using fresh bread is key to elevating your dipping experience.

Troubleshooting Common Fondue Issues

Sometimes, fondue can turn out overly thick or stretchy. This often happens if the heat is too high, causing the cheese proteins to seize. If this occurs, try adding a little more white wine to loosen the mixture, stirring it over low heat until you get back to that desired smoothness.

Conversely, if your fondue is too thin, it could be due to an imbalance in cheese to liquid ratio. In this case, a slurry of cornstarch mixed with a small amount of cold water can help thicken your fondue. Stir it into your fondue while heating gently until you achieve the perfect consistency.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

Incorporating additional flavor elements can take your fondue to new heights. For those who enjoy a hint of spiciness, consider adding a few dashes of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. This elevates the flavor profile without overshadowing the fundamental cheese and garlic combination.

You can also include fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, which can complement the garlic beautifully. Just be cautious with the quantity—start with a teaspoon of finely chopped herbs and adjust to taste. This adds a fresh note that can brighten your fondue experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheese combinations like cheddar or fontina, but keep a mixture of semi-hard cheeses for the best texture.

→ What can I dip besides bread?

You can use vegetables like bell peppers, blanched broccoli, or even apple slices for a sweet twist!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of wine or water as needed.

→ Can I make this vegan?

You can use vegan cheese alternatives, but the flavor and texture may vary. Look for vegan cheese that melts well.