Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Herbs

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper, to taste; Cubed crusty bread, for dipping; Vegetables like broccoli and carrot sticks, optional

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Recipes

When I think about cozy gatherings, fondue with Swiss cheese and herbs immediately comes to mind. I love preparing this dish because it's not just a meal; it's an experience that fosters connection and joy among friends and family. The combination of rich, melty cheese and fragrant herbs creates a delightful flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, the simplicity of dipping your favorite bread or vegetables makes it a fuss-free treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this cheesy goodness together!

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:41:36.970Z

I've always been a fan of Swiss cheese, but it wasn't until I experimented with different herbs that I discovered the true potential of fondue. I remember the first time I added fresh thyme and a hint of nutmeg; it transformed the entire dish into something extraordinary. The potent flavors paired beautifully, elevating the classic fondue experience to new heights.

While making fondue, I found that the key to a smooth consistency is to toss your grated cheese with cornstarch before melting it. This little trick helps prevent clumping and ensures an irresistibly creamy dip. The moment I served it with crunchy bread, I witnessed pure delight in everyone’s eyes, and that’s when I knew I had a hit!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, melty cheese with a fragrant herb aroma
Perfect for dipping, with endless pairing possibilities
Ideal for cozy gatherings and special occasions

      

Understanding the Cheese

When choosing cheese for fondue, the blend of Gruyère and Emmental is classic because of their distinct textures and flavors. Gruyère offers a rich, nutty depth, while Emmental adds a mild, slightly sweet note. Together, they melt beautifully and create a harmonious cheese experience. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute Gruyère with Comté or Jarlsberg; however, keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the overall flavor profile.

The role of cornstarch in this recipe is crucial. It helps prevent the cheese from clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Be sure to toss the shredded cheese with the cornstarch thoroughly before adding it to the pot. This step can elevate your cheese fondue and keep it from becoming gritty or stringy during melting.

Tips for Perfect Melting

Heating the wine slowly is essential for achieving that silky fondue consistency. Use a fondue pot or a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, and keep the wine at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil. You’ll know it’s ready when it produces small bubbles on the surface but isn’t boiling vigorously, which can cause the cheese to separate rather than meld together.

As you add the cheese mixture to the pot, stir continuously in a figure-eight motion to help incorporate air and promote melting. This technique not only enhances the texture but also prevents hot spots that can scorch the cheese. If you notice your fondue becoming too thick, a splash of additional wine can help restore that creamy flow.

Serving Suggestions

While cubed bread is the classic dipping option, consider expanding your dipping menu with fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, carrot sticks, and bell pepper slices. These not only provide a colorful presentation but also balance the richness of the cheese with their natural crunch and freshness. Make sure to cut your vegetables into bite-sized pieces for easy dipping.

To take your fondue to the next level, experiment with flavored oils or sauces for drizzling over your vegetables and bread. A truffle oil or garlic-infused olive oil can add a sophisticated twist. Additionally, you could serve pickles or vermicelli to offer a contrasting texture and flavor that complements the creamy cheese beautifully, turning the dish into a delightful spread.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delicious fondue recipe!

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup dry white wine
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cubed crusty bread, for dipping
Vegetables like broccoli and carrot sticks, optional

Make sure to prepare your dippers while the fondue melts!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delightful cheese fondue!

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic cloves to infuse flavor.

Mix Cheeses

In a bowl, toss the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with cornstarch to coat well.

Heat Wine

Pour the white wine and lemon juice into the pot and heat over medium heat until simmering.

Add Cheese Mixture

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Season

Stir in thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary.

Serve

Serve warm with cubed bread and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious fondue and the company of loved ones!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, experiment with different herbs or add a splash of brandy for a unique twist on classic fondue.

Ingredient Storage and Freshness

To ensure the best flavor and texture for your fondue, it's important to store your cheeses properly. Wrapped tightly in wax paper and then plastic wrap, Gruyère and Emmental can last in the fridge for about a week. For maximum freshness, buy cheese shortly before your fondue night. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents which can affect the melting process by clumping together.

The wine can also be stored but is best used fresh for the most vibrant flavor. If you have leftover white wine, consider making a refreshing spritzer or using it in another sauce. Alternatively, the fondue can be prepared ahead of time; just reheat gently on low heat before serving, adding a splash of wine if needed to smooth the texture.

Vegetarian and Dietary Swaps

For a vegetarian twist on this fondue, ensure that your white wine is made without animal-derived fining agents, which is commonly found in some wines. You can replace the wine with a vegetable broth to maintain a rich flavor, though it might slightly alter the classic taste. Using a high-quality vegetable broth will help to enhance the overall flavors of the cheese.

Another fantastic swap is using non-dairy cheeses specifically designed for melting if you're catering to vegan or lactose-intolerant individuals. Look for brands that offer a blend of nutritional yeast and coconut or almond base; while the flavor might differ slightly, you can spice it up with the same herbs used in the original recipe for an enjoyable alternative.

Scaling the Recipe

This fondue recipe is easily scalable, whether you're enjoying a quiet dinner for two or hosting a larger gathering. For every additional guest, consider adding 100g of cheese and adjusting your wine proportionally. Keep the cornstarch ratio consistent to maintain the sauce's texture, ensuring smooth melting regardless of quantity.

Lastly, note that when preparing larger quantities, it might take longer for the cheese to melt uniformly. Stir frequently to promote even melting throughout the cheese mix. Consider using a double boiler method if you’re dealing with significantly larger batches to prevent overheating in a fondue pot.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It's best to use block cheese and shred it yourself for optimal melting quality.

→ What wine should I use for fondue?

A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, works beautifully to enhance the cheese flavors.

→ Can I make this fondue in advance?

Yes, prepare the cheese mixture in advance and melt it when you're ready to serve.

→ What should I dip in my fondue?

Bread is traditional, but you can also use vegetables, boiled potatoes, or even cooked sausages!