Saturday, January 9, 2010

Fondue Wintery Cheesy Goodness

Fondue is making a comeback and in a big way. This Sixties staple is being served throughout the US and there are even fondue restaurants randomly popping up allover New York and New Jersey., Fondue is a great for celebrating winter and enjoying a fun cozy dinner with family and friends. Cheese fondue is great and requires very little ingredients and cooking skill. It's also a good way to use up leftover wine and cheese.

The dish started in Switzerland in the 18th Century when the Swiss needed to get rid of the hardened cheeses. the dish was invented int he Swiss Canton of Neuchatel when the locals melted cheese and wine together. the name however is from the French fondre meaning to melt. However fondue can refer to anything that can be melted , dunked or dipped into a small Emmanthaler cheese mixed over a small sterno and the minced garlic is added in. the traditional dipping choice is chunks of stale French or Swiss bread but you can add apples or potatoes for more flavor.

Fondue is one of the easiest party and dinner dishes to make. Modern recipes call the same basic ingredients , that reall Swiss fondues have however cornstarch or flour is added for body along with dry mustard and nutmeg for some spiciness. Sometimes kirchwasser or cherry liqueur is added to give the fondue it's slightly tart taste. Also you can use Swiss cheese however this can be very gummy. Stick with a good Gruyere or Emmenthaler. Luckily with fondue there are no leftovers so you won't have to worry about storing it.

During these chilly nights make a comforting fondue for you and your family.It's perfect chill chaser and a great way to get together for some fun and conversation. Everyone will enjoy this tasty , rewarding treat from the Swiss Alps!

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