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: 2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated; 1 cup Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; French bread, cubed, for dipping; Vegetables (like bell peppers and carrots), cut into bite-sized pieces

Highlighted under: Hearty Inspiration

I absolutely love hosting gatherings, and one dish that never fails to impress my guests is fondue with garlic and thyme. This creamy, savory delight coats a variety of dippers, creating an interactive dining experience that's both indulgent and fun. I find that the aromatic blend of fresh thyme and roasted garlic elevates the cheese from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive occasion, this fondue recipe is my go-to for creating delicious memories with friends and family.

Created by

Kerensa Trelawney

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:34:36.520Z

On a particularly chilly evening, I decided to whip up a fondue with garlic and thyme, and the result was simply astounding. I roasted the garlic to bring out its sweetness and combined it with a rich blend of cheeses. The addition of thyme added a lovely earthiness that complemented the creamy texture beautifully. This is the kind of dish that not only warms you up but also encourages conversation and laughter among friends.

One tip I learned was to ensure your cheese is room temperature before melting; this prevents clumping and results in a silky-smooth fondue. I also love serving it with a mix of vegetables and bread for dipping, which adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. It’s a delightful way to engage with each other while enjoying delicious food!

Why You'll Love This Fondue
Creamy texture that keeps you coming back for more
Aromatic blend of garlic and fresh thyme for a gourmet touch
Perfect for social gatherings and cozy evenings at home

Mastering the Cheese Melt

A key to achieving the perfect fondue is the way you melt the cheese. Start by gently tossing the grated Gruyère and Emmental with cornstarch, which helps prevent clumping and promotes a silky texture. As you melt the cheese, keep the heat at medium to avoid burning. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon to ensure even melting, resulting in a smooth, glossy consistency that's ready for dipping.

If you notice your fondue becoming too thick, a little extra wine can help restore its creamy texture. Just add a tablespoon at a time, mixing thoroughly until you reach your desired consistency. Avoid the temptation to crank up the heat; doing so can result in a grainy texture, which is not what you want for this delectable dish.

Choosing Perfect Dippers

While traditional cubed French bread is a classic choice, feel free to explore other dippers to enhance your fondue experience. Crusty baguettes, pretzel bread, or even pita chips can offer delightful variations. Fresh vegetables like blanched broccoli, asparagus spears, or roasted baby potatoes also provide a healthy contrast, adding crunch and freshness against the velvety cheese.

For a gourmet twist, consider adding sliced charcuterie, such as salami or prosciutto, which pairs beautifully with the creamy fondue. Additionally, pickles add a tangy bite, balancing the richness of the cheese and elevating the overall flavor profile of your fondue spread.

Ingredients

Ingredients for the Fondue:

Fondue Ingredients

2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated
1 cup Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
French bread, cubed, for dipping
Vegetables (like bell peppers and carrots), cut into bite-sized pieces

Instructions

Steps to Make the Fondue:

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the Gruyère and Emmental cheese with cornstarch. This will help stabilize the cheese while melting.

Heat the Wine

In a fondue pot, heat the dry white wine over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped thyme, cooking until fragrant.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the pot, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.

Serve

Once melted, keep the fondue warm on a low flame. Serve with cubed French bread and assorted vegetables for dipping.

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of brandy or a hint of nutmeg to your fondue. Make sure to serve it immediately for the best experience.

Ingredient Spotlight: Garlic and Thyme

Garlic and thyme not only provide aromatic depth to the fondue but also complement the cheesiness beautifully. Roasting garlic enhances its sweetness, transforming it into a creamy, caramelized flavor that integrates seamlessly into the cheese blend. If you’re short on time, you can sauté minced garlic in the wine for a few minutes instead, but roasted gives a richer taste.

Using fresh thyme is crucial to imparting a vibrant, herbal note. Dried thyme could be substituted in a pinch, but fresh offers a clearer, brighter flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cheese and garlic. Aim for high-quality, fresh herbs for the best outcome.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning a gathering, consider preparing the cheese mixture ahead of time. Grate the cheeses and mix them with cornstarch, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. This not only saves time but ensures that your fondue is effortless to prepare when your guests arrive.

The fondue itself can also be made ahead and reheated gently over low heat, adding a splash of wine to restore its smoothness as needed. Stir frequently to prevent any separation of the cheese, keeping it luscious and ready for dipping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Gruyère and Emmental are traditional, you can try other cheeses like Fontina or Gouda for a different flavor.

→ Is fondue suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! You can use gluten-free bread or vegetables for dipping to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.

→ How do I store leftovers?

It’s best to store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little wine or milk if needed.

→ What should I do if my cheese clumps?

If your cheese clumps during melting, try adding a bit more wine or tossing it with cornstarch before cooking to achieve a smoother texture.