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The Perfect Pairing

Dip into fun and romance with this delicious homemade fondue recipe.

Thrilled to bring a delightful collaboration between Macey's and Jim Santangelo from Wine Academy of Utah. Together, they’ve crafted a culinary and wine experience, perfect for a party or an intimate date night.

This fondue is perfect for any gathering! Pair it with your favorite local bakery breads and wines for an elegant dinner. Using quality cheeses will enhance the flavor and create a better melting texture.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)

  • 1 garlic clove, halved

  • 8 oz Mifroma Gruyère cheese, grated

  • 8 oz Swiss cheese, grated

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • Freshly ground black pepper and salt, to taste

  • A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For Dipping:

  • Cubed crusty bread

  • Steamed or raw vegetables (broccoli, baby potatoes, or asparagus)

  • Sliced apples or pears

  • Cooked sausage or steak

Instructions:

  1. Toss the grated cheeses and cornstarch together in a bowl.

  2. Rub the inside of a fondue pot or heavy saucepan with the halved garlic clove, then discard.

  3. Add the white wine to the pot and heat over medium-low until it starts to simmer

  4. Stir in your lemon juice.

  5. Gradually add your cheese mixture to the pot, one handful at a time. Be sure to stir constantly and melt the handful of cheese completely before adding more.

  6. Once the cheese is fully melted and smooth, season with black pepper, salt and a pinch of nutmeg to taste.

  7. Reduce the heat to low and transfer the fondue pot to its stand or keep the saucepan on low heat. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers.

Santangelo emphasizes the timeless adage, "drink and eat from the same place," when pairing wine with fondue. His top choice is the Chasselas grape from Switzerland, particularly the L’Alpage, Chasselas, Mont-sur-Rolle. This wine, available at Utah DABC, complements fondue’s richness with its pure minerality and refreshing qualities. Its clean, crisp profile balances the cheese's decadence, making it an ideal companion.

Santangelo also suggests keeping a bottle of Kirsch liqueur on hand for a fun Swiss tradition called "Coup du Milieu." If someone drops their bread in the fondue, they must kiss their partner and take a shot of Kirsch—a playful way to add charm to the evening.

This Chasselas wine is not just for fondue. It’s a versatile choice, perfect after a day of skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking. Its thirst-quenching nature also pairs well with Gruyère, raclette, and other Alpine-inspired dishes.

Together, this combo is a chef's kiss for celebrating love!

Schedule an In-Home Wine event with Jim at wineacademyofutah.com and find an abundant selection of cheese at Macey's.