Cheese Fountain: Melting The Right Cheeses For A Fondue Feast

A cheese fountain is a dressed-up version of the classic fondue pot, adding novelty and fun to a buffet table. The same fountain used as a chocolate fountain can be used as a cheese fountain, as long as the cheese sauce is thinned enough to flow through the pipes smoothly. The best cheeses for a fondue are those that melt smoothly, such as fontina, Gruyère, gouda, and cheddar. A classic Swiss fondue contains a mix of traditional, firm mountain-style cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss cheese, and gouda. To get the right consistency, the cheese should be grated, not chopped, and mixed with cornstarch or flour to prevent clumping.

Nacho cheese sauce, Velveeta or jarred queso sauce

If you're looking to create a cheese fountain, you'll want to use a cheese with a consistency similar to chocolate syrup or heavy cream. This rules out many homemade cheese sauces, such as bechamel or roux-based fondue, which tend to be too thick and can cause clogging. Instead, opt for processed cheese products like nacho cheese sauce, Velveeta, or jarred queso sauce, which have a thinner, more fluid consistency.

Nacho Cheese Sauce

Nacho cheese sauce is a popular choice for cheese fountains due to its smooth, fluid consistency. It can be found in cans or jars at most grocery stores, restaurant supply stores, and online retailers. When using nacho cheese sauce, it's important to heat it before adding it to the fountain to ensure optimal flow. You can also thin the sauce with water or milk to achieve the desired consistency.

Velveeta

Velveeta is a processed cheese product that can be used as an alternative to nacho cheese sauce in a cheese fountain. It has a similar consistency to nacho cheese sauce and can be prepared in the same way by heating it on the stove and thinning it with water or milk as needed.

Jarred Queso Sauce

Jarred queso sauce, often found in varieties like white queso, sharp cheddar cheese, or spicy Tex Mex, can also be used in a cheese fountain. These jarred sauces typically include additives that prevent curdling and maintain a thin, sauce-like consistency. When using jarred queso sauce, be sure to heat it before adding it to the fountain, and consider thinning it with water or milk to achieve the ideal consistency.

Tips for the Best Cheese Fountain Experience

To ensure your cheese fountain is a success, follow these tips:

• Preheat the cheese fountain so that it can maintain the temperature of the cheese dip.
• Start by adding only half the amount of cheese dip you think you need, then adjust as needed.
• Expect some splatters—keep a wet cloth nearby for easy cleaning.
• Avoid adding large chunks of ingredients to the cheese sauce, as they can clog the fountain. Instead, serve toppings and accompaniments on the side.
• Serve your cheese fountain with a variety of dippers such as tortilla chips, pretzels, or vegetables.

Classic Swiss fondue: Gruyere, Swiss cheese, and gouda

Classic Swiss fondue is a blend of traditional, firm mountain-style cheeses. The best all-around cheeses for fondue are fontina, Gruyère, and gouda. For a classic Swiss fondue, a mix of Gruyere, Swiss cheese, and gouda is perfect.

The original version of fondue was simply stale bread dipped in melted Gruyère. Swiss fondue became so popular that it was named the national dish of Switzerland in the 1930s. Now, this concoction of melted cheese is a decadent way to celebrate chilly winter nights.

A classic Swiss fondue is made with a combination of Gruyère, Swiss cheese, and gouda, blended with other Swiss cheeses such as Emmentaler, Vacherin Fribourgeois, Appenzeller, and Raclette, depending on regional preferences and personal taste. To make the fondue, the cheeses are grated and combined with cornstarch and lemon juice before being cooked over moderate heat. Once melted, a splash of kirsch and wine, along with garlic and spices, are added to the mixture. The fondue is served warm, with a variety of dipping options such as bread cubes, cooked potatoes, sliced apples, pears, cornichons, pickled onions, and salami.

The key to a successful fondue is to use good-quality, creamy, and buttery cheeses that melt smoothly. Gruyère, Swiss cheese, and gouda are ideal choices for a classic Swiss fondue, creating a rich and indulgent experience.

Cheddar fondue: cheddar and Gruyère

A classic cheese fondue is a blend of Swiss cheeses, such as Gruyère, Emmentaler, and Appenzeller. However, you can add your own twist to this traditional dish by incorporating cheddar. For a cheddar fondue, it is recommended to use a mix of cheddar and a more traditional cheese like Gruyère.

For a basic fondue recipe, you will need 7 ounces of shredded Gruyère, 7 ounces of sharp cheddar, and 7 ounces of Emmentaler. You can also add an extra tangy kick to your fondue by swapping out the Emmentaler for more cheddar.

Start by heating a cup of dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc) in a small saucepan over low heat until it simmers. In a separate, medium-sized saucepan, melt some butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in a tablespoon of flour until a thick paste forms, then gradually whisk in the wine until the mixture is smooth.

Now, it's time for the cheese. Slowly stir in the Gruyère, cheddar, and Emmentaler (or extra cheddar) until melted. This should take about 5 minutes.

Transfer the cheesy goodness into a fondue pot and keep it warm over a low flame.

You can serve your fondue with a variety of dippers, such as bread cubes, apples, vegetables, sausages, or even potato chips. For a special touch, provide skewers or fondue forks for your guests to use, avoiding any unsanitary finger-dipping!

Bleu cheese or ranch fondue

A Bleu Cheese or Ranch Fondue is a fun and tasty savoury twist on the traditional chocolate fountain. It is a great centrepiece for a party, especially for those who prefer savoury to sweet.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Bleu Cheese Dressing (or Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing)
• 5-10oz Frank's Hot Sauce
• 3-8oz Cream Cheese

Optional Ingredients

If you want to make the fondue thicker, you can add chicken broth.

Method

Melt all the ingredients in a saucepan over a low heat until smooth. You can use a viscosity cup to determine whether the mixture is ready for the fountain. If the dressing runs through the cup in 8-10 seconds, it is ready. If it is too thick, add chicken broth until you get the perfect flowing consistency.

Serving

This fondue is best served at room temperature, so do not turn on the heat switch on the fountain. Serve with chicken wings and celery sticks for a true taste of Buffalo, New York.

Velveeta cheese fondue

Velveeta cheese is a great option for a cheese fondue, especially if you're looking for a convenient and tasty choice. Fondue is a fun and interactive way to enjoy cheese, and with Velveeta, you can create a delicious and creamy dip that your guests will love. Here's a step-by-step guide to making Velveeta cheese fondue:

Ingredients:

• 2 lb (32 oz) Velveeta cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 10.5 oz chopped tomatoes with green chillies
• Chicken broth, water, or milk

Instructions:

• Prepare your dippers: You can use a variety of items such as bread cubes, apple slices, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, or any other vegetables of your choice.
• Cut the Velveeta cheese into 1/2-inch cubes and toss them with flour. This step helps to create a thicker consistency for your fondue.
• Combine chicken broth, water, or milk with the cream cheese, chopped tomatoes with green chillies, and any additional seasonings in a medium saucepan over low to medium heat.
• Add half of the Velveeta cheese cubes to the mixture and stir continuously until melted.
• Once the first half is fully melted, add the remaining Velveeta cheese cubes and continue stirring until everything is combined and melted smoothly.
• Transfer the cheese fondue to your preheated fondue pot. Don't forget to light the candle underneath to keep it warm and melted.
• Enjoy your delicious Velveeta cheese fondue! Dip your prepared items into the fondue and savour the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Tips and Variations:

• If you're serving a larger group, ensure you have a large enough fondue pot or multiple pots.
• You can adjust the consistency of the fondue by adding more or less liquid (chicken broth, water, or milk).
• For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of green chillies or add other spices like chilli powder or smoked paprika.
• If you want to add some extra cheese, shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese can be a great addition to the Velveeta base.
• Get creative with your dippers! In addition to the suggested options, you can use pretzels, soft pretzels, cherry tomatoes, bread cubes, broccoli florets, bell peppers, or even tortilla chips for a nacho-style dip.
• For a more elegant presentation, serve your Velveeta cheese fondue alongside a variety of drinks and sweets, creating a well-rounded offering for your guests.

Frequently asked questions