Fondue with Smoked Gouda Blend

Name: Fondue with Smoked Gouda Blend
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz smoked Gouda cheese, grated; 4 oz Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Cubed crusty bread, vegetable sticks, and fruit for dipping

Highlighted under: Fusion Kitchen

I absolutely love making fondue at home, especially this Smoked Gouda blend! It's a wonderful dish that brings people together, creating moments of joy and connection over melted cheese. The rich, smoky flavor of Gouda pairs beautifully with a hint of white wine, making the cheese rich and indulgent. It’s perfect for gatherings with friends or a cozy night in. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you'll have a delicious dip that's ready in no time!

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:42:34.885Z

One of my favorite fondue experiences was while traveling in Switzerland. I discovered how the smokiness of Gouda could elevate the dish, making it so much more flavorful than traditional recipes. Since then, I've been experimenting with this combination, and I think I've finally perfected it! I recommend using a good quality smoked Gouda for that intense flavor that pairs exceptionally well with different dippers.

Another tip is to ensure your cheese is at room temperature before melting. It helps in achieving a creamy, smooth consistency without any lumps. I pair it with crusty bread, fresh veggies, and even some apple slices for an added twist. Enjoy dipping your favorites!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, smoky flavor that tantalizes the taste buds
Creamy, velvety texture that is irresistible
Perfect for entertaining or intimate evenings at home

      

Choosing the Right Cheeses

Selecting the right cheeses is crucial for achieving the perfect fondue. The combination of smoked Gouda and Gruyère not only creates a flavorful profile but also provides an excellent meltability. Smoked Gouda adds a unique depth while Gruyère brings a nutty, creamy texture. If you’re unable to find Gruyère, consider Swiss cheese as a substitute, though the flavor will be less complex. The balance between these cheeses is what gives the fondue its luxurious texture and taste.

Grating the cheeses ensures they melt quickly and evenly in the pot. I recommend using the coarse side of a box grater as this helps to integrate them seamlessly into the wine mixture. Make sure your cheese is at room temperature before starting; this can significantly reduce the melting time and ensure a smooth final product.

Perfecting the Fondue Technique

The method of combining cheese and wine in the pot is a key step. Use medium heat and a wooden spoon to gently stir the mixture, ensuring the cheese doesn’t scorch or clump. Look for a glossy, thick consistency developing; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If you notice any stringy texture, don’t panic—simply reduce the heat and continue stirring until smooth. If your fondue seems too thick, you can add an extra splash of white wine to loosen it up.

Incorporating cornstarch mixed with lemon juice not only thicken the fondue but also helps prevent it from separating. This step should be done gradually; stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking for another minute until it’s well combined. The acidity of the lemon juice balances the richness of the cheese, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful cheese dip:

Fondue Ingredients

8 oz smoked Gouda cheese, grated
4 oz Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Cubed crusty bread, vegetable sticks, and fruit for dipping

Make sure to have a variety of dippers for an enjoyable experience!

Instructions

Here's how to make this delicious fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to infuse flavor. Discard the garlic.

Mix the Cheese and Wine

In the pot, combine the grated smoked Gouda and Gruyère cheeses with the white wine. Stir gently over medium heat until melted.

Create a Smooth Consistency

In a bowl, mix the cornstarch with the lemon juice until smooth, then gradually stir it into the melted cheese mixture to thicken it.

Season and Serve

Taste and season with salt and pepper. Keep the fondue warm and serve with your dippers.

Enjoy the warm, gooey cheese with your favorite dippers!

Pro Tips

For the best results, use cheese at room temperature to ensure a smooth melt. Don't be afraid to mix in different cheeses for unique flavors!

Dippers and Pairings

Choosing the right dippers can elevate your fondue experience. Cubed crusty bread is classic, but consider adding a variety of textures like crunchy vegetable sticks—think carrots, bell peppers, or celery—for a refreshing contrast. Fruits like apple slices or pear chunks complement the smoky flavor of the Gouda beautifully, creating a delightful sweet and savory balance. You can also serve with pretzels or crackers for additional crunch.

To enhance the flavor, consider infused oils or herbed butter as a drizzle over your dippers. This adds an extra layer of taste and can make the dipping experience more vibrant. Experiment with different types of bread; sourdough or whole grain options provide distinct flavors that can pair well with the cheese.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Fondue is best served fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time. Grate the cheeses and combine them with the cornstarch before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat up the white wine in the pot, add the cheese mixture, and proceed with the melting steps. This preparation can save you time when entertaining and help manage your workflow in the kitchen.

If you find yourself with leftover fondue, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it over low heat, adding a bit of white wine or milk to help regain its creamy consistency. Avoid using the microwave, as it can cause the cheese to seize up and lose its smooth texture, making it less enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! You can mix in other cheeses like cheddar or Fontina for a different flavor.

→ What can I use as dippers?

Crusty bread, vegetables like broccoli or carrots, and fruits such as apples or pears work wonderfully.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Is fondue suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this fondue recipe is vegetarian-friendly, made from cheese and wine.