Fondue with White Wine and Thyme

Name: Fondue with White Wine and Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Fresh bread, cubed for dipping; Steamed vegetables (like broccoli or carrots) for dipping

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Favorites

I love making this Fondue with White Wine and Thyme for gatherings with friends and family. It’s a delightful dish that brings everyone together, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. The richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the aromatic thyme and the brightness of the white wine, making each bite a flavorful experience. I particularly enjoy serving it alongside fresh bread and crunchy vegetables for dipping, which adds even more texture to the meal. Give it a try next time you want to impress your guests with something special and fun!

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:13:34.414Z

When I first made Fondue with White Wine and Thyme, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors blended together. The acidity of the white wine cuts through the richness of the cheese, while the thyme adds an aromatic touch that elevates the dish. I suggest using a good-quality white wine since it truly makes a difference.

This fondue is not only delicious, but the experience of gathering around the pot, dipping various ingredients, creates lasting memories with friends and family. I recommend trying it with crispy bread or steamed vegetables for a delightful combination!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A unique blend of flavors with thyme and white wine
Interactive and fun for sharing with friends and family
Ideal for cozy nights in or special celebrations

      

The Art of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for a smooth and flavorful fondue. Gruyère and Emmental are classic options because they melt beautifully, creating that luscious texture we crave. When selecting your cheese, aim for high-quality, block cheese and grate it yourself; pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. If you're looking for variations, consider adding a sharp Cheddar or a touch of blue cheese for an extra kick in flavor.

For a lower-fat alternative, you can use part-skim cheeses, but be cautious as they may not melt as well. If you have dairy restrictions, experimenting with plant-based cheeses designed for melting can still give you a creamy base. Just remember that the flavor will differ, so choose varieties that suit your palate.

Mastering the Heat

When making fondue, controlling the heat is key to preventing the cheese from becoming grainy. Start with medium heat when heating the wine; you want it steaming, not boiling. If it boils, the emulsifying properties of the cheese can break, leading to a less desirable texture. I find that using a thermometer to keep the wine at about 180°F (82°C) helps maintain the right temperature for melting.

As you add the cheese mixture, lower the heat further to ensure a gentle simmer. Stirring continuously keeps the fondue from sticking to the pot, and it promotes even melting. If you notice clumps forming, you can whisk in a bit more wine to help incorporate it smoothly.

Perfect Pairings and Presentation

Your fondue deserves an equally delicious array of dippers! While fresh baguette cubes are a staple, consider incorporating other flavors such as sourdough or whole grain bread for added texture. Crunchy vegetables like blanched asparagus, bell peppers, and carrots not only offer a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese but also add a rainbow of colors to your table, making the experience more inviting.

For a fun twist, think about adding fruits like apple or pear slices for a sweet contrast to the savory cheese. Arrange everything stylishly on a large platter, and don’t forget long fondue forks or skewers for dipping! This interactive aspect of fondue not only enhances the flavor profile but also creates a memorable shared dining experience.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Fresh bread, cubed for dipping
Steamed vegetables (like broccoli or carrots) for dipping

Instructions

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot or heavy saucepan with the halved garlic clove. Discard the garlic.

Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, mix the grated cheeses with cornstarch. In the pot, heat the white wine over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Flavor It

Stir in the thyme leaves and lemon juice. Keep the fondue warm over low heat and serve alongside fresh bread and vegetables for dipping.

Pro Tips

For a truly special touch, experiment with different cheeses or add a touch of nutmeg to enhance the flavors.

Make-Ahead Tips

Fondue is an enjoyable dish to prepare ahead of time. You can grate the cheeses and mix them with cornstarch a day in advance, storing the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just bring it back to room temperature before melting to ensure even warming.

For the wine and garlic step, you can also heat the wine, add garlic, and let it cool before storing it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat the wine gently and proceed with adding the cheese. This will streamline your preparation on the day of your gathering.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your fondue becomes gritty or separates, this usually indicates the heat was too high at some point. To rescue it, you can whisk in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with white wine to re-emulsify the mixture, bringing it back together. If you don't have cornstarch, a little bit of whole milk can also help smooth out the texture.

Another common issue is the cheese clumping or not melting properly. If that happens, keep the fondue pot over low heat and stir continuously to encourage a uniform melt. Remember to adjust the creaminess by adding wine as needed; it not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that velvety consistency.

Storing and Reheating Fondue

If you happen to have leftover fondue, it’s best to store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It can keep for up to three days. When reheating, use a double boiler or a fondue pot on low heat to ensure that it warms gently without curdling. Stir in a splash of white wine or a bit of milk if it seems too thick or grainy after cooling.

Keep in mind that stored fondue won’t have the same texture as freshly made, but adding a bit of white wine during reheating can revitalize the flavors. Serve it again with fresh dippers for another cozy meal experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of wine for the fondue?

It's best to use a dry white wine. Sweet wines may change the flavor profile.

→ What can I dip in the fondue apart from bread?

You can dip steamed vegetables, cooked meats, or even fruits like apple slices for a twist.

→ How can I keep my fondue warm during the occasion?

Use a fondue pot with a burner or place it on a warm stove to maintain the desired temperature.

→ Can I make fondue in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead and reheat it gently before serving.