Patrick Oconnell
Fondue is a Swiss dish that gained popularity in the US in the 1960s and remains popular today. The best bread for cheese fondue is crusty bread, as it is the best at soaking up the cheese. Crusty bread can include baguettes, sourdough, French bread, Italian bread, pita wedges, and focaccia. If you're feeling ambitious, you can make your own bread, but store-bought options work just as well. In addition to bread, popular foods to dip in cheese fondue include meat, potatoes, fruits, and vegetables.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Bread Type | Baguette, French Stick, Sourdough, Brown Loaf, White Bread, Multi-grain, Whole Wheat, Italian, Pita, Naan, Focaccia, Tortillas, Croissants, Bread Sticks, Baked Polenta Cubes |
| Texture | Crustiness |
| Shape | Cubes, Strips |
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What You'll Learn
Crusty bread is best for dipping
When it comes to cheese fondue, crusty bread is the best for dipping. It is the number one pick for cheese fondue because it soaks up all the cheesy goodness. You can use crusty bread such as baguette, French bread, or Italian bread. If you're feeling ambitious, you can make your own baguettes or a simple, no-knead peasant bread. However, store-bought options such as sourdough loaves are also great.
If you want to grill your bread, slice it into 1/2-inch slices and spray both sides with olive oil spray or butter spray. Sprinkle with garlic salt to taste and place on a grill pan while the fondue melts. Watch the bread closely and flip it when the first side is toasted (about 2 minutes). Serve the grilled bread with your cheese fondue for the perfect dipping experience.
In addition to crusty bread, there are other types of bread that you can use for dipping. Some people prefer white bread, such as a French stick or tiger loaf. Others might opt for multi-grain or whole wheat bread, pita wedges, fresh tortillas, tortilla chips, croissants, breadsticks, naan, or focaccia.
While crusty bread is the classic choice for cheese fondue, you can also get creative with your dippers. In addition to bread, you can offer a variety of vegetables, fruits, and meats. Some popular options include potatoes, bell peppers, apples, pears, broccoli, cauliflower, pickles, and cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, or chorizo. So go ahead and experiment with different types of bread and dippers to create the ultimate cheese fondue experience.
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White vs brown bread
When it comes to cheese fondue, the best type of bread to use is crusty bread. This is because crusty bread is better at soaking up the cheese. While some people prefer white bread, others opt for brown bread. A brown loaf of bread, such as a dunkles St. Gallerbrot, dunkler Pfünder, or Ruchbrot, is a good choice for cheese fondue. However, you can also use white bread, such as French bread, sourdough, or baguette.
If you're feeling ambitious, you can make your own bread from scratch. A simple, no-knead peasant bread is a good option, or you could try making a couple of fresh baguettes. Alternatively, you can take the store-bought route and pick up a loaf of sourdough or French bread from your local bakery or grocery store.
Regardless of whether you choose white or brown bread, the key is to cut it into cubes or strips that are easy to skewer and dip into the fondue. You can also grill or toast the bread to add a crispy texture and enhance its flavour.
In addition to bread, there are many other foods that pair well with cheese fondue. Fruits such as apples and pears, as well as vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers, can add a fresh and crunchy element to your fondue experience. Meats such as prosciutto, salami, and chorizo can also be delicious additions, providing a salty or spicy contrast to the creamy cheese.
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Baguettes and French bread
When preparing a baguette for cheese fondue, it is best to cut it into 1/2-inch slices. Before placing it on the grill, spray both sides of the bread with olive oil or butter spray and sprinkle with garlic salt to taste. This will not only enhance the flavour but also create a crispy texture.
French bread, with its airy texture and golden crust, is another excellent choice for cheese fondue. It can be cut into cubes or strips, providing a hearty base for the melted cheese. French bread is versatile and can be paired with a variety of cheese fondue recipes, from traditional Swiss to those incorporating wine or other creative ingredients.
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, a "fondue pocket" can be created by hollowing out a piece of French bread, filling it with warm fondue, and wrapping it in a napkin. This innovative approach ensures equal amounts of cheese and bread in each bite, eliminating the mess that can sometimes accompany traditional fondue.
Whether you choose a baguette or a loaf of French bread, the key to success is a crusty exterior and a soft interior that can absorb the fondue's flavours. So, when preparing for your next fondue gathering, consider baking your own baguettes or purchasing a fresh loaf of French bread to elevate this classic dish.
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Grilled bread
Brush or spray both sides of the bread slices with olive oil or butter, and sprinkle with garlic salt to taste. Place the bread on a grill pan and put it on the grill while your fondue melts. Keep a close eye on the bread—it should only take about two minutes per side to toast.
You can also make grilled cheese fondue in a cast-iron skillet on the grill. Combine shredded Swiss cheese, cornstarch, and evaporated milk in the skillet, stirring constantly until the mixture is creamy and smooth. If the fondue is too thick, add more milk, and if it's too thin, add more cheese or cornstarch. This fondue is best served immediately while it's still gooey and dippable.
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Multigrain and whole wheat bread
When it comes to cheese fondue, bread is the most popular dipper. While French bread, breadsticks, and croutons are always a hit, multigrain and whole wheat bread are excellent choices for a more nutritious option. Here's why:
When selecting a multigrain or whole wheat bread for fondue, opt for a loaf with a denser texture. This ensures that the bread holds up well when dipped into the fondue and doesn't fall apart easily. A rustic loaf with visible grains and seeds can also add a nice crunch and a pop of flavour.
To prepare the bread, it is recommended to lightly toast it before cutting it into large cubes. This step helps to strengthen the bread, reducing the chances of it disintegrating in the cheese. It also adds a slight crispness to the exterior, enhancing the overall texture.
Lastly, multigrain and whole wheat bread provide a more well-rounded flavour profile to the fondue experience. The variety of grains contribute different tastes and aromas, creating a complex and intriguing bite each time. This can elevate the overall dining experience, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a more sophisticated pairing with their cheese fondue.
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Frequently asked questions
The best bread for cheese fondue is crusty bread as it is the best at soaking up the cheese. French bread, sourdough, baguettes, and peasant bread are all good options.
Yes, brown bread such as dunkles St. Gallerbrot, dunkler Pfünder, or Ruchbrot is commonly used for cheese fondue in Switzerland.
Yes, you can make your own bread for cheese fondue. A simple option is to make a no-knead peasant bread.
Some good alternatives to bread for cheese fondue are potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, apples, and pears.
To make grilled bread for cheese fondue, slice bread into 1/2-inch slices and spray both sides with olive oil spray or butter spray. Sprinkle with garlic salt to taste and place on a grill pan. Watch the bread closely and flip when the first side toasts, after about 2 minutes.
