Fondue is back in style. There is really no better way to gather a group of people together than with a fondue meal. It’s casual, fun, and so easy for the host. If you plan on purchasing a fondue set, read this article first. In it we will discuss what to look for in a fondue set, including the different types of fondue pots. Learning what to look for in a fondue set will ensure that you make the best selection for your needs.
Is there a chance that you’re not familiar with fondue? Well, it’s time to remedy that! For those that may not know, fondue was originally used as a trendy way to enjoy melted cheese with bread or meat. Now, there are various recipes that can be cooked in a fondue pot including the traditional cheese variations, chocolate fondue, caramel fondue, and scrumptious Asian hot-pot oil based fondue.
What to look for in a fondue set – Types of fondue pots
There are many types of fondue pots to choose from. Here we will look at the three types of fondue pots you have to select from. They differentiate solely by the way they heat.
Sterno pot – Sterno fondue pots are powered by small tanks filled with sterno fuel. The benefit of using a sterno pot is that it can be used virtually anywhere, without the concern of guests tripping over the electrical cord. The downside to using a sterno pot is that there is a concern, for some, of fire. In addition, with a sterno pot, you will have to continually purchase sterno fuel tanks for the unit to work. When used properly, a sterno fondue set works great in distributing heat evenly, thus resulting in good fondue melt.
Electric pot – An electric fondue pot is simple to use and set up, and eliminates the concern of fire hazard. The unit plugs in and heats fairly quickly. There are no real downsides with using an electric fondue pot. They can be bought in various sizes to accommodate both large or small parties.
Tea Light pot – A tea light pot requires no electricity, as it solely powered by a tea light candle. These are typically small types of fondue pots, and are best used in a home setting. While a tea light pot will work, I feel that it takes longer to melt the fondue than with a standard sterno pot or electric pot. However, a tea light pot works great for a romantic setting.
What to look for in a fondue set – Size of fondue pot
To decide which size of fondue pot to purchase, you’ll need to consider what you will be using it for. Will you be using your fondue pot to regularly entertain guests? Or will it be something you use on special occasions for your immediate family? Obviously, a fondue pot with a capacity of between 1 – 2 quarts will be best for a small group of people. Larger pots that hold 6 – 8 quarts, are best used for parties and larger functions. Pay attention to the size of fondue pot before you purchase it.
What to look for in a fondue set – Non-stick interior
Melted cheese is not fun to clean up. Make sure that the fondue set you are considering is coated with a non-stick material.
What to look for in a fondue set – Detachable parts
A good fondue set should come apart easy for cleaning, and go back together with ease. A quality fondue set will do just that.
What to look for in a fondue set – Fondue accessories
There are all types of fun fondue accessories that come inside fondue sets. The most important of which are metal fondue skewers. These skewers are what people use to eat with, and you need to have one for each guest. If you will be hosting a large party, wooden skewers can be used instead.
Individual serving dishes are another desirable fondue accessory, as they can be used to place various items for dipping. Chunks of bread, meat, pretzels, fresh fruit, and so on, can each have their own individual serving dish.
A Lazy Susan insert is a terrific fondue accessory to have. With a Lazy Susan, the fondue set sits on top of it, and allows guests to turn the base so they can easily help themselves to various food items for dipping.
