This small batch cheese fondue is rich, smooth, and easy to make at home. Inspired by a classic ploughman’s fondue, it’s perfect for one or two and ideal for dipping bread, vegetables, or potatoes.
Prep Time5 minutesmins
Cook Time10 minutesmins
Total Time15 minutesmins
Course: Appetizer, Main Dish
Cuisine: British, Swiss
Keyword: cheese fondue, fondue, ploughman's fondue, small batch cheese fondue
In a large bowl, toss the grated cheeses with the flour and dry mustard until evenly coated.Tip: Add the cheese in batches and toss as you go. This helps the flour blend evenly.
Slice the garlic clove in half and rub the cut sides around the inside of a 2 quart saucepan.
Pour the beer into the saucepan and heat over medium low until it begins to gently simmer. Do not let it boil.
Add the cheese one handful at a time, stirring constantly. Let each addition melt before adding more.
Continue stirring until all the cheese is melted and the fondue looks creamy.
Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth. If the fondue is too thick, stir in a small splash of beer.
Keep the fondue warm until ready to serve. Transfer it to a serving bowl to enjoy right away, or keep it warm in a 2 quart slow cooker set to warm or in a fondue pot.
Serve with cubes of crusty bread and steamed or roasted vegetables.
Notes
Grate and Coat the Cheese: Freshly grate the cheese and toss it with the flour before cooking to help it melt smoothly and prevent clumping.
Heat the Beer Gently: Warm the beer over medium low heat and avoid letting it boil, which can cause the cheese to separate.
Add Cheese Slowly: Add the cheese one handful at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each addition to melt before adding more.
Adjust the Consistency: If the fondue becomes too thick, stir in a tablespoon of beer until it loosens.
Flavor the Pot with Garlic: Rub the inside of the pot thoroughly with a halved garlic clove to add flavor without overpowering the fondue and to keep the cheese from sticking to the sides.
If doubling the recipe, use a 3.5 or 4-quart saucepan.