Fondue with Gruyere and Herbs

Name: Fondue with Gruyere and Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyere cheese, grated; 100g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 clove of garlic, halved; 200ml dry white wine; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Cubes of crusty bread for dipping; Vegetables (like bell peppers and cherry tomatoes), optional

Highlighted under: Creative Baking Ideas

I absolutely love making fondue, especially when it incorporates Gruyere cheese and fresh herbs. There's something incredibly satisfying about melting cheese and creating a communal dish where everyone can dip and enjoy together. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, offering a delightful blend of flavors. The combination of rich cheese with aromatic herbs elevates the experience, making every bite a memorable one. Get ready to dive into a bubbling pot of cheesy goodness that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds.

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:13:35.745Z

When I first made this Gruyere fondue, I was surprised by how simple it was to create such a gourmet dish at home. I experimented with different herbs and found that fresh thyme and rosemary added an exquisite depth to the flavor. The key is to gently heat the cheese until it’s just melted, ensuring a creamy consistency without burning.

What I love most about this fondue is its versatility. You can pair it with a variety of dippers, such as crusty bread, vegetables, or even cooked potatoes. I recommend preparing all your ingredients ahead of time, so you can enjoy the process with friends and family around the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of rich Gruyere and fragrant herbs
Creates a wonderful atmosphere for sharing with friends
Easily adaptable with your favorite dippers

      

Understanding the Cheese

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for a successful fondue. Gruyere brings a nutty, complex flavor with a creamy texture that melts beautifully. Emmental adds a mild sweetness and helps create a smooth, cohesive consistency. When selecting your cheeses, opt for high-quality, authentic varieties rather than pre-grated options, which often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting. If you need a lactose-free substitute, consider lactose-free cheese blends designed for melting, which can mimic the texture without compromising taste significantly.

Warming the cheese slowly is key to achieving the perfect melt without separation. Use low to medium heat to gently coax the cheeses into melting. A fondue pot is ideal for this, especially if it has a ceramic pot inner layer that distributes heat evenly. Stirring continuously helps incorporate air and will prevent the mixture from becoming stringy or clumpy, which can happen if cheese is overheated.

Perfect Pairings

The joy of fondue lies not only in the cheese but also in the dippers you choose. Crusty bread is a classic option; baguette cubes or sourdough provide a satisfying contrast to the gooey cheese. For a twist, consider including pretzel bites or crackers for added crunch. If you want to add more nutrition or color to your spread, fresh vegetables like blanched asparagus, bite-sized broccoli florets, or roasted fingerling potatoes are great alternatives that complement the rich cheese flavors beautifully.

For those who enjoy a hint of sweetness, sliced apples or pears can provide an unexpected and delightful contrast. Just be sure to select firm fruits that won’t break apart when dipped. Don't hesitate to experiment with different dipping options; the best results often come from personal favorites and seasonal produce.

Ingredients

Gather all of the following ingredients for a perfect fondue experience.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyere cheese, grated
100g Emmental cheese, grated
1 clove of garlic, halved
200ml dry white wine
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Cubes of crusty bread for dipping
Vegetables (like bell peppers and cherry tomatoes), optional

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can move on to preparing the fondue.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delightful fondue experience.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove. This adds a subtle garlic flavor to the fondue.

Combine Wine and Cheese

In the pot, combine the white wine and lemon juice, and heat gently over low heat. Gradually add in the grated Gruyere and Emmental cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Add Herbs and Seasoning

Once the cheese is melted, stir in the fresh thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the pot to a burner or table flame to keep the cheese warm. Serve with cubes of bread and optional vegetable dippers.

Enjoy your fondue while it's hot, and don’t forget to dip generously!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) to the melted cheese. It enhances the taste and adds an authentic touch to your fondue.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cheese mixture in advance, which saves time when you're ready to serve. Grate the cheeses and mix them with herbs and seasonings, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply add the wine and heat gently until melted. I recommend allowing the combined cheese to come to room temperature before heating it, as this helps it melt evenly and prevents it from becoming grainy.

If you're planning to use vegetables as dippers, consider lightly steaming or roasting them beforehand to enhance their flavors. This will ensure that they are tender enough to soak up the cheese without losing their structure, providing a delightful contrast in textures.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftover fondue, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, return it to a fondue pot or a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of white wine or additional lemon juice to restore some liquidity. Stir continuously to re-emulsify; this will help prevent separation and promote a smooth consistency once again.

When reheating, be patient. It’s essential to go low and slow; high heat can cause the cheese to break and become gritty. Serve your reheated fondue with fresh dippers to bring back that delightful texture and flavor, ensuring a comforting experience similar to the original meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this fondue ahead of time?

It's best to prepare fondue just before serving since it tastes best when hot. However, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and reheat it gently.

→ What can I use for dipping?

You can dip bread cubes, vegetables, and even sausages or cooked potatoes. Feel free to get creative!

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Any leftover fondue can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit more wine if necessary to achieve the right consistency.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

The fondue itself is gluten-free, but ensure that your dipping options are also gluten-free if needed.