Fondue with Garlic and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Garlic and Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyere cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tbsp cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was amazed by how easy it was to create a warm, inviting dish perfect for gatherings. The fragrant blend of garlic and fresh thyme adds a delightful twist to the classic recipe that I absolutely love. This fondue is not just about melted cheese; it's about the experience of dipping fresh bread into an aromatic pot of goodness. It has become a staple at my dinner parties, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:37:09.936Z

As I stirred the bubbling pot of cheese, the aroma of garlic and herbs filled my kitchen, instantly bringing warmth to the space. I used a mix of Gruyere and Emmental for that perfect melt and combined it with sautéed garlic and fresh thyme, transforming a simple cheese dish into an aromatic delight. One tip I've learned is to keep the heat low; this helps avoid burning the cheese, ensuring a smooth, creamy fondue.

Sharing fondue with friends always creates a memorable experience. Each dip reveals a layer of flavor that excites the palate, and the slow pace of eating encourages great conversation. I love serving it with a selection of bread, veggies, and fruits, which complement the cheesy richness beautifully. Don’t forget to toss in a little white wine for added depth—it truly elevates the dish!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Aromatic garlic and thyme bring an irresistible flavor
Perfect for social gatherings or cozy nights in
Creamy texture that pairs perfectly with crusty bread

      

The Importance of Cheese Selection

Choosing the right cheeses is crucial for a fondue's success. Gruyere and Emmental not only melt beautifully but also offer a pleasant nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute Gouda for Gruyere, as it has a similar melting profile. Just make sure the cheese is freshly grated; pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melt and texture.

When preparing your cheese mixture, don't forget the cornstarch; it helps stabilize the cheese and prevents it from separating during cooking. Mix the grated cheeses with the cornstarch in advance, as this will help ensure a creamy, smooth fondue. If the cheese begins to become stringy or clumpy while melting, adding a splash more wine can help loosen the mixture.

Mastering the Fondue Technique

Temperature control is key when making fondue, so use medium heat as you start. Keep an eye on the wine; it should be gently simmering, not boiling. Too much heat can scorch the cheese or create a gritty texture. Stirring constantly while adding the cheese is also essential; this promotes an even melt and prevents the bottom from burning.

A wooden spatula is ideal for stirring fondue, as it won't scratch your fondue pot. Once you achieve that glossy, creamy consistency, be careful to keep the heat low to maintain warmth without cooking the fondue further. If you notice the mixture thickening too much, you can incorporate a bit more wine gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyere cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 cup dry white wine
1 tbsp cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, for dipping

Make sure everything is ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the grated Gruyere and Emmental cheeses with the cornstarch to ensure a smooth melt.

Heat the Wine

In a fondue pot over medium heat, add the white wine and minced garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the garlic to infuse.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring constantly until completely melted and creamy.

Add the Thyme

Stir in the fresh thyme leaves and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep warm over low heat.

Serve

Serve the fondue immediately with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy the experience!

Remember to keep the fondue warm during serving to maintain the perfect melting consistency!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding a bit of nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness. Enjoy the dipping experience with various breads, veggies, or even fruits!

Variations to Try

For a twist on the classic flavor, you could add a splash of brandy or kirsch after melting the cheese. These spirits not only enhance the taste but also complement the garlic and thyme. Additionally, consider mixing different herbs, like rosemary or parsley, to offer a distinctive aroma without overpowering the cheese.

If you want to make the fondue heartier, try incorporating some cooked vegetables or small pieces of sausage in the pot. Just be sure they're fully cooked, as the fondue won't heat them enough to ensure doneness—this adds a great texture and an unexpected layer of flavor to every bite.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Fondue is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the fondue gently over a low flame on the stovetop, stirring continuously to reincorporate the cheese. Adding a little extra wine can help regain creaminess without compromising flavor.

If you're preparing for a gathering and want to make it ahead of time, consider prepping the cheese and herb mixture. Store it in the fridge and, when ready to serve, simply heat the wine and follow the melting steps. This allows you to enjoy your guests without being tied to the kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like Fontina or Monterey Jack, but it's best to use a mix for the ideal texture.

→ What can I dip besides bread?

Vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or even apples can be great additions for dipping!

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the cheese and seasoning mixture ahead of time and store it until ready to heat.