Fondue with Raclette Cheese

Name: Fondue with Raclette Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g raclette cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Nutmeg, to taste; Crusty bread, cut into cubes; Assorted vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making fondue with raclette cheese, especially when the weather turns chilly. There’s something incredibly comforting about melting cheese in a pot and enjoying it with good company. With its rich and nutty flavor profile, raclette brings an elevated touch to the classic fondue experience. I often pair it with crusty bread, fresh vegetables, and a splash of white wine, making it a complete treat for the senses. If you’ve never tried it, you’re in for a real delight that guarantees laughter and satisfaction around the table.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:46:13.900Z

When I first tried my hand at making fondue, I was amazed at how simple and rewarding it was. The key is using high-quality raclette cheese, which melts beautifully and creates that iconic gooey texture. I’ve experimented with various pairings, but my favorite is still a crusty baguette and some assorted veggies dipped into that luscious cheese.

One tip I’ve learned is to keep the pot at a gentle simmer, ensuring that the cheese melts evenly without separating. A splash of wine not only adds flavor but also ensures the fondue maintains the right consistency. I can’t wait for you to experience this deliciousness!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The creamy and rich texture of melted raclette cheese
Perfect for sharing with friends and family during gatherings
Versatile: pair with various breads, meats, and vegetables

      

The Importance of Cheese Quality

When making fondue, the quality of the raclette cheese is paramount. Look for aged raclette with a rich, nutty flavor that melts beautifully without separating. A proper raclette has a slightly firm texture before melting, ensuring it becomes creamy and luscious as it heats. Avoid pre-shredded cheese; it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process, resulting in a grainy texture rather than the smooth fondue you desire.

Pairing your cheese with the right type of wine enhances the fondue experience significantly. A dry white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling, complements the creaminess of raclette. The acidity in the wine helps to cut through the richness of the cheese, balancing the flavors beautifully. This not only adds depth but also provides a delightful contrast to the dish.

Perfecting Your Technique

To prevent your cheese from becoming lumpy or stringy, gradually adding the grated raclette to the warmed wine is crucial. Start with a small handful, stirring continuously until it melts completely before adding more. This technique promotes even melting and creates that desired silky texture. Aim for a gentle heat, around medium-low, as high temperatures can cause the cheese to curdle.

Utilizing a fondue pot is key for maintaining temperature. If you don’t have one, a heavy-bottomed saucepan can suffice. Keep an eye on the mixture; once it's glossy and smooth, it’s ready to serve. If it thickens too much during serving, a splash of additional wine can help to loosen it back to the perfect dipping consistency.

Creative Dipping Options

While crusty bread is a classic dipping option, don’t limit yourself. Experiment with various dipping accompaniments like crispy bacon bits or artisan sausages for a savory touch. Also, consider adding boiled baby potatoes or pickles, which not only add flavor but also provide a pleasing contrast in texture. If you're aiming for a healthier spin, roasted vegetables such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes can bring a fresh taste to your fondue experience.

If you find that dietary restrictions are in play, feel free to swap out raclette with other cheeses suitable for melting, like Gruyère or Fontina. Just keep in mind that different cheeses can alter the flavor profile; adjusting seasoning accordingly is important. If you're looking for a vegan option, try a cashew-based cheese alternative made with nutritional yeast for nutty flavors, though the texture may vary.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

400g raclette cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutmeg, to taste
Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Assorted vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect fondue:

Prepare the pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove, then discard the garlic.

Heat the wine

Pour the white wine into the pot and heat it over medium-low heat until warm.

Melt the cheese

Gradually add the grated raclette cheese to the pot, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Season the fondue

Add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper and a hint of nutmeg to enhance the flavor.

Serve

Once the cheese is fully melted and combined, serve immediately with bread and vegetables for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious fondue with company!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different dippers like cured meats or even fruits to enjoy the versatility of this dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare some components ahead of time. Grate the raclette cheese and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. This not only saves prep time but also allows the flavors to intensify as the cheese rests. The garlic can also be prepped by rubbing it on the pot; however, it's best to add the wine and cheese just before serving to encourage the ideal melting consistency.

If you have leftover fondue, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, do so gently over a double boiler or in the microwave at low power, adding a little more wine to get back the creamy texture. Avoid direct high heat as it can lead to a rubbery consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheese separates and becomes oily, it's usually due to overheating. To fix this, try to stir in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to help re-emulsify the mixture. Additionally, keep a watchful eye on the heat during cooking; aim for a consistent medium-low level for best results. If the fondue thickens too quickly, adding a touch of warm wine will help restore its liquidiness.

Another common issue is that the cheese does not melt properly. This can happen if the cheese is too cold when added. To combat this, allow the grated cheese to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before adding it to the warm wine. Ensuring the cheese is evenly grated can also assist in achieving an even melt.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

For a truly inviting fondue experience, serve it on a wooden board adorned with small bowls of various dipping ingredients. This could include olives, charcuterie, or different types of artisan breads. Adding fresh herbs as garnishes can elevate the visual presentation, making it not only appealing but also fragrant as you dip.

Consider pairing your fondue with a selection of sparkling water or fresh lemonade for a refreshing beverage option. The fizz helps cleanse the palate after indulging in the rich cheese. For an evening twist, a light cocktail or prosecco can also complement the meal wonderfully, creating a festive and enjoyable atmosphere.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cheeses for fondue?

Yes, cheeses like Gruyère or Emmental can be excellent alternatives that melt well.

→ What type of bread is best for dipping?

A crusty baguette or sourdough works well, but feel free to use your favorite bread.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Make sure to stir continuously as you add the cheese and keep the temperature steady.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and reheat it gently.