There's a lot of preparation involved in a fondue party. We highly recommend you prepare your items ahead of time to save yourself some stress. Chop your fruits and vegetables up, slice your choice of bread(s), and cube your meats, then store in airtight containers in the fridge until needed.
Don't Use Pre-Shredded Cheese
Resist the urge to cut corners and use pre-shredded cheese! The anti-caking agent they use to keep your cheese from clumping will drastically alter the texture of your fondue. Go old fashioned and break out the box grater!
Do Add the Cheese Slowly
Instead of adding it all at once, add the cheese in a little bit at a time and allow the mixture to come back to a simmer. Adding all of the cheese at once can cause it to clump, break, and become grainy
Don't Overcook the Cheese
Cook your fondue cheese slowly on the stovetop and only transfer to the fondue pot after being fully melted.
Do Toss Your Freshly Shredded Cheese in Cornstarch
When making fondue, it's always a good idea to use a thickening agent. Cornstarch or flour will help thicken and improve the viscosity of your fondue. A good rule of thumb is 1 tablespoon cornstarch for 1 pound of cheese!
Don't Serve Damp Vegetables
Take the time to dry your vegetables, otherwise the cheese won't stick!
Do Provide Plenty of Fondue Forks
Have an extra set of fondue forks on hand for guests who misplace theirs! Extra plates, napkins, and flatware are also a good idea.
Don't Skimp on Dippers!
There's no such thing as too many dipping options! We recommend serving a variety so that your guests can mix and match. Need some recommendations? Check out our Fondue Shopping List here.
Do Plan Your Seating Arrangements
To help with the flow of the evening, plan for your guests to be seated around a table on which the fondue pot and all of the dippers sit. Additionally, it's best to plan for 4-6 people per fondue pot.
Don't Leave Your Table Naked
Plan on using a tablecloth for easy clean up! Once the party is over, toss your linen tablecloth in the washer or the trash if it's disposable.
Do Uncork Some Wine!
Part of the fondue tradition, you want to choose a wine with mild tannins that will bring out the nuttiness of the cheese like Riesling or Cinsault.
Don't Forget To Stir Frequently
Stirring helps to redistribute the heat, keeps it smooth, and prevents scorched spots! So don't just dip with your fondue fork, stir your dippers around to coat them in cheesy goodness!
Do Stick to One Course of Fondue
As fun as it is to offer both dinner AND dessert, both the savory and the sweet versions can be very heavy and filling so offering both may be too much. Take your pick based on your crowd!
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