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: 500g 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; Boiled baby potatoes; Pickled gherkins; Sliced cured meats (prosciutto, salami); Assorted fresh vegetables (carrots, peppers)

Highlighted under: Cultural World Food Recipes

I absolutely love making fondue with raclette cheese, especially during cozy gatherings with friends and family. The gooey, melted cheese creates a comforting centerpiece that invites everyone to dip their favorites. It’s not just about the cheese; it’s the experience of gathering around the pot, sharing stories, and enjoying the delicious flavors. This recipe brings a delightful mix of savory and rich notes that tantalize the taste buds, making it perfect for any occasion. With some fresh bread and a few accompaniments, you'll have the ultimate fondue feast.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:35:36.204Z

Every winter, I look forward to hosting fondue nights filled with laughter and the enticing aroma of melted cheese. When I first experimented with raclette, I was captivated by how its creamy texture paired perfectly with crusty bread and fresh veggies. The key to a perfect fondue is using a good quality wine and toasting the cheese gently so it achieves that smooth, velvety consistency.

I encourage you to try different dippers for variety; I’ve found that pickled vegetables and charcuterie elevate the experience. This recipe has quickly become a favorite among my friends, and I often get requests to make it again. The joy is not just in the eating but in the shared moments it creates!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Smooth, melted raclette cheese is irresistible.
Ideal for sharing and creating memorable gatherings.
Easily customizable with various dips and sides.

      

Mastering the Fondue Technique

Fondue may seem straightforward, but mastering the technique makes all the difference. It's vital to use a good-quality raclette cheese because it melts beautifully, achieving that desired creamy texture. When adding the cheese to the wine, do so gradually; this prevents clumping and ensures an even melt. Stir continuously and maintain a gentle heat to keep the cheese smooth without boiling, which can cause it to become grainy.

Using a fondue pot with a heat source is ideal, as it keeps the cheese warm and melty throughout your gathering. If you start to notice the fondue thickening, adding a touch more warm wine can help restore that perfect pourable consistency. I like to keep a small ladle or spoon handy to give it a quick stir if it starts to firm up and to maintain that luscious, glossy finish.

Perfect Pairings

The beauty of raclette fondue lies not only in the cheese but also in what you choose to dip. Traditional accompaniments like crusty bread or boiled baby potatoes soak up the cheese perfectly, making each bite a delight. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with other ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms or roasted cauliflower for a delicious alternative. Just remember that dippers should be sturdy enough to hold up against the melted cheese without breaking.

For an added flavor dimension, marinating vegetables in a light vinaigrette or herbs can enhance your fondue experience. Try skewering bite-sized pieces of veggies or even fruits like apples for a surprising twist. The combination of creamy cheese with sharp or sweet elements provides a complex taste profile that elevates your fondue night.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

500g raclette cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Nutmeg, to taste

Dippers

Crusty bread, cut into cubes
Boiled baby potatoes
Pickled gherkins
Sliced cured meats (prosciutto, salami)
Assorted fresh vegetables (carrots, peppers)

Instructions

Prepare the Pot

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

Heat the Wine

In the pot, pour in the white wine and heat gently over medium heat until it simmers. Avoid boiling.

Add the Cheese

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

Season the Fondue

Add freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg for flavor. Stir until well incorporated.

Serve

Serve immediately with your chosen dippers on the side. Use fondue forks to dip and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider using a combination of raclette and Gruyère cheese. Also, serve some additional white wine on the side to complement the cheese.

Storage and Reheating

If you're lucky enough to have leftover fondue, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple—just return it to the fondue pot or a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in a tablespoon of wine to revive the texture, ensuring it doesn’t become too thick or clumpy. This allows you to enjoy the delightful flavors again without waste.

For those considering making fondue ahead of time, prepare the cheese and wine mixture in advance, but keep them separate until you're ready to serve. Just reheat the wine and gradually incorporate the cheese as explained, which will save time when entertaining and still provide that fresh, delightful experience.

Dietary Adaptations

If you're looking to create a vegan version of this fondue, consider using cashew cheese or a nut-based cheese alternative. Make a cashew cheese sauce by blending soaked cashews with nutritional yeast and spices, then incorporating a little non-dairy milk for creaminess. This can mimic the rich, nutty flavor of raclette without compromising textures, making it a terrific substitute for non-dairy eaters.

For those who are lactose intolerant, lactose-free cheese can be a great alternative. It melts similarly to traditional cheese and retains that creamy texture that makes fondue so enjoyable. Look for lactose-free variations of raclette or other semi-hard cheeses that melt well without the lactose content.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can blend raclette with Gruyère or fontina for a unique flavor.

→ What kind of wine works best?

A dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, is recommended.

→ Can fondue be made in advance?

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

→ What if my fondue is too thick?

Add a little more wine to achieve your desired consistency, stirring well.