Fondue with Garlic and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Garlic and Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Bread cubes or assorted veggies for dipping

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Fondue with Garlic and Thyme for gatherings because it brings everyone together around the pot! The warmth and aroma fill the room, making it an inviting space to share stories and laughter. The combination of gooey melted cheese infused with garlic and fresh thyme is irresistible. It’s a fun dish to prepare, allowing each guest to personalize their bread or vegetable dippings. This recipe has become a favorite in my household, perfect for cozy nights or special occasions.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:52:11.735Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was. The key is to use high-quality cheese and let it melt gently over low heat. Incorporating fresh garlic and thyme not only enhances the flavor but also gives the dish an aromatic touch that’s hard to resist. I've learned to mix the cheese and wine gradually to achieve a perfectly smooth consistency.

One of my favorite parts about this fondue is the versatility it offers. I love to experiment with different dippers—fresh bread, crispy vegetables, or even crunchy pretzels! Each bite becomes an adventure in flavor, and it's the perfect way to keep everyone engaged around the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Meltingly delicious cheese infused with aromatic garlic and thyme
A fun, interactive dining experience that's perfect for sharing
Versatile dippers to cater to every taste preference

      

Perfecting Your Fondue Technique

The key to achieving a silky-smooth fondue lies in the preparation of the cheese. Mixing the grated Gruyère and Emmental with cornstarch not only ensures seamless melting but also helps prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. This technique is crucial, especially at high heat, where the proteins in the cheese can separate. Aim for an even coating of cornstarch on the cheese to achieve optimal results.

When warming the wine, use a fondue pot or any heavy-bottomed saucepan. Keeping the heat moderate is essential; you want the wine simmering gently, which aids the infusion of garlic and thyme without boiling away the liquid too quickly. This step should take around 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Choosing the Right Dippers

While classic bread cubes are a traditional choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with your dippers! Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, crisp bell peppers, and even roasted potatoes add delightful textures and flavors. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, gluten-free bread works well too! Each dipper can bring a new taste experience to the melted cheese and enhance the overall fondue enjoyment.

Consider the size and shape of your dippers. Anything that’s too large or too hard might be difficult to coat effectively in the cheese. I recommend cutting your bread into bite-sized pieces and ensuring softer vegetables are either steamed or blanched to maintain tenderness. This makes dipping easier and ensures each bite is a perfect fusion of cheese and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Bread cubes or assorted veggies for dipping

Make sure to prepare your dippers ahead of time so everyone can enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheese with cornstarch. This helps the cheese melt smoothly when heated.

Cook the Base

In a fondue pot over medium heat, bring the wine to a gentle simmer. Add the minced garlic and thyme, letting it infuse the wine for a few minutes.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the simmering wine, stirring constantly until melted and creamy. Season with black pepper to taste.

Serve

Once the cheese is melted to your desired consistency, serve the fondue hot with an assortment of bread cubes and vegetables for dipping.

Don't forget to encourage everyone to dip and enjoy the communal experience!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try experimenting with different herbs or even a splash of brandy in the cheese mixture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover fondue, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating may require adding a splash of white wine or a bit of milk to restore its creamy consistency. Gently warm the fondue in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from scorching at the bottom.

Freezing is not recommended for fondue due to the nature of dairy. However, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and store it. Just remember to leave out the wine until you are ready to melt it. This can save time on a busy gathering day!

Customizing Your Flavor Profile

Experimenting with different herbs and spices can elevate your fondue experience. Besides thyme, try incorporating rosemary or even a hint of nutmeg for a cozy twist. Adjusting the amount of garlic can also change the flavor intensity, catering to your guests' preferences—more for garlic lovers or less for a milder experience.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of brandy or favorite spirits to the fondue for a unique flavor. Just keep the quantity small to avoid overpowering the cheese. This twist can add depth and warmth to your fondue, making it feel extra special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Cheeses like Fontina or Havarti can also work well in fondue.

→ What type of bread is best for dipping?

French baguette or rustic sourdough bread are fantastic choices for fondue dipping.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

You can store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While fondue is best served fresh, you can prepare the cheese mixture and store it in the fridge. Just reheat with the wine before serving.