Fondue with Garlic and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Garlic and Thyme
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g Gruyère cheese, grated; 200g Emmental cheese, grated; 1 cup dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Salt and black pepper to taste; Bread, vegetables, or other dippers of choice

Highlighted under: Inspired Cooking

I absolutely love making fondue, especially when it’s infused with garlic and thyme. This recipe brings a wonderful depth of flavor and warmth that makes any gathering feel special. The creamy cheese melting into a rich blend is simply irresistible, and the aroma of garlic combined with fresh thyme elevates this dish to another level. Whether it's a cozy night in or a festive celebration, this fondue is the perfect treat to share with family and friends.

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:34:36.502Z

When I first experimented with this garlic and thyme fondue, I didn’t anticipate the delightful balance of flavors it would create. The combination of fresh herbs with melted cheese not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fills the room with an inviting aroma. I remember one evening, we had some fresh bread and roasted vegetables as dippers, and they paired so well with the fondue that it became the star of the meal.

One tip I found particularly useful is to ensure the cheese is at room temperature before melting. This simple step helps in achieving a silky-smooth consistency that envelops each bite. I also love to change up the dippers depending on what's in season, adding a seasonal twist to this classic dish!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Aromatic infusion of garlic and thyme that awakens the senses
Perfectly creamy texture that brings warmth to every bite
Ideal for sharing and creating memorable moments with loved ones

      

Mastering the Cheese Blend

When choosing the cheeses for your fondue, opt for high-quality Gruyère and Emmental to achieve the quintessential Swiss flavor and smooth texture. The cornstarch helps to prevent the cheese from clumping together, ensuring a silky result. Make sure to mix the cheeses thoroughly before adding them to the wine; this distributes the cornstarch evenly and promotes a uniform melt.

Grating the cheese yourself is preferable to pre-packaged shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting process. If you're in a pinch, you can use a food processor for fast grating. Aim for a finer grate, which allows the cheese to melt more evenly and quickly, producing that delightful creamy consistency.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When heating the wine, monitor the temperature closely. You want it to be steaming but not boiling, as excessive heat can cause the cheese to seize and clump rather than melt smoothly. I recommend using a thermometer; an ideal range is around 180°F (82°C). Stir gently to prevent scorching while enhancing the flavor with the aromatic infusion of garlic and thyme.

As you add the cheese to the wine, do so gradually. This method allows each portion to fully incorporate before adding more, which helps create a luxurious, velvety texture. Keep stirring in a figure-eight motion until the fondue achieves a glossy, cohesive consistency, which typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If the fondue becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of additional wine.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to ensure a smooth process when making this fondue.

Fondue Ingredients

200g Gruyère cheese, grated
200g Emmental cheese, grated
1 cup dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Salt and black pepper to taste
Bread, vegetables, or other dippers of choice

Make sure to have a variety of dippers ready to enjoy with your fondue!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delightful fondue experience.

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses with cornstarch. This helps to keep the cheese mixture smooth as it melts.

Heat the Wine

In a fondue pot or saucepan, heat the 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 heated wine, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Transfer the fondue pot to a table with a heat source. Serve with your choice of dippers like crusty bread or roasted vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious fondue with loved ones!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, feel free to add a splash of brandy or a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Fondue is endlessly customizable when it comes to dippers. While classic choices include thick slices of crusty bread, consider adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even steamed broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition. Cube up some firm fruits like apples or pears for a surprising contrast to the rich cheese.

To enhance the experience, you can offer various dipping sauces alongside the fondue. A tangy mustard sauce or a fresh herb pesto can elevate the flavors and create an interactive dining experience. Set up a fondue station, allowing guests to personalize their dippers and sauces to their tastes, making it a memorable gathering.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover fondue, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The texture may change upon reheating, so it's crucial to gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of wine or broth to restore some creaminess. Stir continuously until it reaches the desired consistency, avoiding microwaving, which can lead to uneven heating.

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can also make the cheese mixture ahead of time. Prepare the cheese and cornstarch blend, then layer it between parchment paper in a container. Store it in the fridge, and on the day you plan to serve, simply heat the wine and add the prepped cheese mixture, following the same melting process for a quick setup.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute other cheeses like Fontina or Gouda for different flavors.

→ How do I keep the fondue warm?

Using a fondue pot with a burner beneath it will help keep the cheese warm and melted.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

Bread cubes, vegetables, apples, or even cooked meats work wonderfully as dippers.

→ Is fondue suitable for a vegetarian diet?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat.