Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Fresh Herbs

Name: Fondue with Swiss Cheese and Fresh Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 clove garlic, halved; 300ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; Fresh herbs (chives, thyme, rosemary), finely chopped; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Vegetables for dipping (carrots, bell peppers)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I adore making fondue; it's not just a dish, it's an experience that transforms any gathering into a cozy, interactive dining affair. The creamy combination of Swiss cheese and fresh herbs creates a comforting yet elegant flavor profile that's perfect for dipping. Whether it’s crusty bread, veggies, or even fruits, the rich cheese is a delight to savor. Plus, preparing fondue is easier than it looks! I can't wait to share my tips for achieving that perfectly melted consistency that everyone will love.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:18:59.161Z

When I first attempted this fondue recipe, my friends were skeptical about the aromas wafting from the kitchen. But I knew I was onto something special with the blend of Swiss cheese and fresh herbs. Upon serving, their eyes widened in delight as they dipped their first pieces of bread into the bubbling concoction. It was a win!

What surprised me most was the versatility of the herbs. I experimented with different combinations—chives, thyme, and even a hint of rosemary. Each twist not only enhanced the flavor but also made the fondue feel uniquely mine. It’s a dish where creativity flows, just like the melted cheese!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that brings warmth to any gathering
Versatile flavor combinations that can be customized to taste
Fun and interactive dining experience perfect for sharing

      

The Cheese Choice

Choosing the right cheeses is crucial for an authentic fondue experience. Emmental offers a mild, nutty flavor and smooth texture, while Gruyère adds a rich, slightly sweet taste that enhances the overall depth. You can experiment with ratios, but maintaining the 1:1 ratio ensures a balanced flavor. If you're looking for a stronger flavor, consider adding a touch of aged Gruyère. Remember, the quality of your cheese will directly affect the creaminess and richness of your fondue.

If you're in need of alternatives for dietary restrictions, you can use lactose-free cheeses that mirror the melting properties of Emmental and Gruyère. A combination of lactose-free mozzarella and an aged white cheddar can work well. Just ensure you follow the same grating and melting techniques for the best results.

Flavor Enhancements

The addition of fresh herbs not only brightens the dish but also adds a layer of complexity. Chives provide a mild onion flavor, while thyme lends an earthy touch. Rosemary, used sparingly, can introduce a woody aroma that rounds out the cheese. When preparing the herbs, chop them finely to release their essential oils; this ensures their flavors meld beautifully into the cheese mixture. You can also consider incorporating a splash of your favorite spirit, like kirsch or brandy, for an added depth.

Another way to customize your fondue is to experiment with different dipping items. While bread is traditional, get creative with roasted potatoes, soft pretzels, or even apple slices for a sweet contrast. Just remember that if you're using softer items like fruits or cooked vegetables, make sure they're cut into bite-sized pieces for easy dipping.

Troubleshooting and Storage

If your cheese mixture turns out grainy, it likely means the cheese was too hot or the wine wasn't acidic enough. To fix this, remove it from the heat and whisk in a bit more white wine or a splash of lemon juice until smooth. The ideal fondue should be smooth and glossy, not clumpy. A temperature range of 150°F to 180°F keeps it properly melted without overheating.

If you find yourself with leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in a small amount of white wine or broth to restore the creamy consistency. Freezing fondue isn't recommended, as the texture changes upon thawing, but you can always make a smaller batch to avoid waste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for an unforgettable fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Emmental cheese, grated
200g Gruyère cheese, grated
1 clove garlic, halved
300ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Fresh herbs (chives, thyme, rosemary), finely chopped
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Vegetables for dipping (carrots, bell peppers)

Don’t forget to prepare your dipping items to make this a complete fondue experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your fondue:

Prepare the Pot

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

Melt the Cheese

In the fondue pot, combine the grated Emmental and Gruyère cheese with the white wine and lemon juice over medium heat.

Thicken the Mixture

Once melted, mix cornstarch with a small amount of wine and stir it into the cheese mixture until smooth.

Add Herbs

Stir in the finely chopped fresh herbs to elevate the flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

Keep the mixture warm, and serve with bread and vegetables for dipping.

Don’t forget to keep the heat low to maintain that perfect melting consistency.

Pro Tips

For a smoky flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or a splash of dark beer into the cheese mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your fondue in a warmed pot to maintain that delectable melting consistency. For a complete experience, set up a fondue station with various dipping options laid out in an organized fashion. Include color combinations to create visual interest—add vibrant veggies like bell peppers alongside rich bread cubes. You can also arrange small bowls with dips, such as dijon mustard or a variety of salsas, to add extra flavors.

To elevate the dining experience, consider pairing your fondue with a selection of wines. A crisp dry white wine complements the cheese beautifully, while a light-bodied red can contrast nicely with the richness. Preparing a simple salad with a vinaigrette can also balance the meal and cleanse the palate between dips.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning to entertain a larger group, scaling this recipe is easy. Just maintain the 1:1 cheese ratio based on the number of guests you have. For every additional 100g of cheese, add about 150ml of wine to ensure the mixture remains at the right consistency. Make sure to increase your pot size appropriately, as having too little cheese in a large pot can cause uneven melting.

Conversely, if you’d like to make a smaller batch, halving the ingredients is perfectly straightforward. However, keep in mind that smaller amounts may require careful monitoring to avoid overheating. A smaller fondue pot or even a stovetop saucepan works great for intimate servings without losing the fondue experience.

Fondue Variations

Beyond traditional Swiss cheese fondue, you can venture into exciting variations. Consider adding finely chopped cooked bacon or caramelized onions for a savory twist. For a vegetarian option, swap out some cheese for a cream-based alternative like mascarpone, which adds a luscious texture without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, you can incorporate different types of cheese such as Fontina or a blue cheese for a bold, adventurous take.

Seasonal ingredients like roasted garlic or truffles can also be used for a gourmet flavor profile. Adjust the herbs accordingly based on your ingredient choices, ensuring that whatever you add complements the cheese without overwhelming it. This adaptability of fondue enhances its charm as a dish that can continually surprise and delight.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese for fondue?

Absolutely! Mixing cheeses like cheddar or fontina can yield delicious variations.

→ What should I serve with fondue?

Bread, veggies, and even fruits like apples or pears work wonderfully as dippers.

→ Can I prepare the fondue in advance?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture beforehand and reheat it gently before serving.

→ Is fondue a healthy option?

It can be enjoyed as an indulgence; just keep portion sizes in mind when serving.