Swiss fondue is a beloved dish that has long been associated with the country’s rich culinary heritage. The dish, which typically consists of melted cheese, bread, and other accompaniments, has been a staple of Swiss cuisine for centuries and remains a favorite among locals and tourists alike. In this article, we’ll explore the Swiss fondue tradition and give you some tips on how to eat it like a local.
The history of Swiss fondue
Swiss fondue has a long and storied history, with some sources suggesting that the dish dates back to the 18th century. At that time, cheese was a staple food in Switzerland, and fondue was a way to make use of stale bread and leftover cheese. Over time, the dish evolved and became more refined, with different regions of Switzerland developing their own unique variations.
Today, Swiss fondue is widely considered a national dish and is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s typically served in a communal pot, with diners using long forks to dip pieces of bread into the melted cheese. Other accompaniments may include potatoes, vegetables, and even meats such as ham or sausage.
How to eat fondue like a local
If you’re visiting Switzerland and want to experience the joys of fondue like a local, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your fondue experience:
- Choose the right cheese: Swiss fondue is typically made with a blend of cheeses, including Gruyere and Emmental. These cheeses are known for their nutty, slightly sweet flavor and ability to melt smoothly. When ordering fondue, be sure to ask about the cheese blend used.
- Dip the bread: Bread is the main accompaniment to fondue, and it’s important to dip it properly. Use a long fork to spear a piece of bread, then dip it into the cheese and swirl it around a bit to coat it evenly.
- Don’t double dip: It’s considered bad manners to double-dip your bread in the fondue pot. Once you’ve dipped your bread, be sure to eat it before dipping it again.
- Drink the right wine: Fondue is traditionally served with white wine, which helps cut through the richness of the cheese. In Switzerland, it’s common to drink a dry white wine like Fendant or Chasselas with fondue.
- Take your time: Fondue is a rich and filling dish, so it’s important to pace yourself and not overindulge. Take breaks between dipping to chat with your dining companions or sip a glass of wine.
In addition to the tips above, there are a few other things to keep in mind when enjoying Swiss fondue. For example, it’s important to stir the cheese mixture regularly to prevent it from burning or separating. Some restaurants may provide a small burner or heating element to keep the fondue warm, but if not, be sure to eat it quickly before it cools down too much.
Another important aspect of the fondue experience is the social aspect. Fondue is often served in a shared pot, making it a great choice for groups and families. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal together and can help create a social and relaxed atmosphere.
One thing to note is that while fondue is typically associated with the colder months, when the weather is chilly and cozy comfort food is in high demand, it can be enjoyed all year round. In fact, many Swiss restaurants now offer outdoor fondue experiences during the summer months, where diners can enjoy their meal outside in a beautiful setting.
If you’re looking to take your fondue experience to the next level, consider trying some of the regional variations of the dish that can be found throughout Switzerland. In the canton of Valais, for example, fondue is often made with a blend of Gruyere and Raclette cheeses and may be served with potatoes and pickles. In the canton of Fribourg, fondue is made with a blend of Gruyere and Vacherin Fribourgeois cheeses and may be served with mushrooms and onions.
In conclusion
Swiss fondue is a delicious and iconic dish that’s an essential part of any visit to Switzerland. By following these tips and eating like a local, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the rich history and tradition behind this beloved dish. So next time you’re in Switzerland, find a cozy fondue restaurant and enjoy a meal that’s truly unique.
FAQs
How do you eat fondue in Switzerland?
Don’t stir counterclockwise: Traditionalists say you must stir clockwise or in a figure-eight pattern to keep the cheese homogenized until you reach the very bottom. Do twirl, twirl, twirl: Keep the table tidy by twirling those drips, drabs, and flyaway strands of melted cheese around your cube of bread.
How do Swiss people eat fondue?
The Swiss are adamant that fondue should only be eaten with a white, preferably, dry wine (it supposedly helps digestion). Anyone, including complete strangers, are happy to impart this deeply ingrained piece of wisdom.
How are you supposed to eat fondue?
Cheese fondue is eaten with a long-handled fondue fork, one fork per guest. Cubed bread is speared and dipped into sauce served in a communal pot. Because the sauce is shared by everyone at the table, and the fork is redipped into the sauce many times, the tines of the fork do not pierce the cubes all the way through.
What do Swiss eat with fondue?
Dunking. Typical fondue bread cubes are cut from white bread, but half-white or wholegrain bread also works well. If you like, you can also use wholemeal bread or bread for toasting, fried in butter. Other options include boiled potatoes, blanched vegetables or fruit (e.g. pears, apples or grapes).
How often do Swiss eat fondue?
Even today, Swiss consider fondue as a winter meal–a one-pot meal of comfort food to be enjoyed family style. It’s generally just the tourists that consume fondue in summer months. Fondue is traditionally made and served in an earthenware pot known as a caquelon.
Do you eat off of the fondue fork?
Never eat directly off the fondue fork. Never forget your food in the pot. Never pour the contents of the pot onto your plate. Never cut in line when it’s not your turn to dip.