Champagne + Fondue for Two
Fondue, a culinary delight originating from Switzerland, is more than just a meal; it's a communal, romantic experience that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide. The slow-paced nature of fondue encourages leisurely enjoyment, allowing diners to savor each moment and relish the diverse flavors. Whether it's the savory allure of melted cheese or the sweet decadence of chocolate, fondue transforms the act of eating into a shared adventure, creating memories and connections that linger long after the last dip.
This Thanksgiving fell on my 50th birthday. We’ll be traveling next week to celebrate but as my wife and I decided to spend the Thanksgiving holiday/birthday just the two of us in Sag Harbor, my wife had the idea to have fondue as the holiday spread because it was the most popular food the year I was born. So an evening of fondue and champagne it was!
I wanted to share the simple method for cheese fondue that we used.
Select a soft cheese in a wood case (essential for this method). We chose Germain Langres AOP, a distinctive French cheese hailing from the Champagne-Ardenne region, and a true delight for cheese connoisseurs. Recognized for its unique cylindrical shape and concave, saucer-like top, Langres boasts a rich and creamy interior with a crumbly texture towards the center. This cow's milk cheese undergoes a meticulous production process, including a washed-rind technique that imparts a robust flavor profile characterized by earthy, tangy, and slightly salty notes. As it matures, Langres develops a signature indentation on its surface, traditionally filled with a splash of local Champagne, enhancing its flavors and creating a luxurious experience for the palate. The result is a cheese that beautifully balances pungency with a velvety smoothness, making Langres AOP a cherished gem in the world of French cheeses. Bonus, it pairs excellently with a bottle of chilled Champagne!
Preheat oven to 350 Fahrenheit Cut a small shallow circle in the top center of the cheese.
Pour a bit of white wine into the center (we used a Chardonnay but any white wine will do)
Cover the wine with the top circle you cut out.
Wrap the bottom of the cheese case in aluminum foil and place on a baking sheet
Place in oven and heat for 5-10 minutes
Once cheese is melted remove from oven. Remove tin foil and serve
Use fondue forks to dip crusty bread, cornichons, and roasted cauliflower. More ideas for dipping:
Apple Slices: The sweetness and crunch of apple slices create a delightful contrast to the savory cheese.
Pear Wedges: Similarly, ripe pear wedges bring a sweet and juicy element to the fondue experience.
Sausage or Sausage Slices: Cooked and sliced sausages, such as smoked or cured varieties, offer a savory and hearty option.
potatoes: Boiled or roasted small potato chunks provide a satisfying and filling choice.
Pretzel Bites: The saltiness of pretzels complements the cheese, and the bite-sized nature makes them perfect for dipping.
Grilled Ham or Prosciutto: Thinly sliced and lightly grilled or sautéed ham or prosciutto can bring a savory and smoky flavor.
Cherry Peppers: Pickled or fresh cherry peppers add a bit of heat and acidity to balance the richness of the cheese.
Grapes: The sweetness and juiciness of grapes create a refreshing contrast to the savory cheese.
Pair your fondue with a nice bottle (or two!) of chilled Champagne. On our recent visit to France we made sure to bring back some nice sets of Champagne. For the evening we opted for Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut. This Champagne, known for its rich history and commitment to quality, embodies a perfect balance of freshness, vivacity, and sophistication. The golden hue and persistent, delicate bubbles create an alluring visual appeal, setting the stage for a memorable experience. Its aromatic profile, featuring notes of citrus, brioche, and a hint of almond, adds a layer of complexity that complements a variety of dishes or stands beautifully on its own. The crisp and lively palate, coupled with a lingering finish, imparts a sense of celebration and refinement, making Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut an ideal companion for toasting to love and shared moments on a romantic evening.
