Fondue has been around from the early 800’s. Fast forward to the 1800’s and we are acquainted with the modern
day fondue i.e. melted cheese, and wine in a pot over an open flame.
The origins of fondue are less comfortable than we would imagine. It was founded in the Swiss mountains where it was a peasant’s means to reuse left over bread and cheese. In the 1930’s the Swiss Cheese Union popularized fondue as their national dish and so it made its way into the hearts of people globally.
Not only does fondue require minimal preparation but it is also a great way to bond over an intimate dinner setting. It works for romantic dinners and small gatherings of family and friends. No matter what the occasion, fondue is perfect for a homey environment.
While fondue sets have had fluctuating popularity, there has been a resurgence and below are just a few reasons why.
Advantages and Uses of Fondue Sets
Fondue sets are an excellent way to ensure portion control. For healthy dieters, it is a way to eat meals with non-processed food. All one needs is a way to set up the ingredients and cook it in water, broth or oil. It’s easy to make and great for your health.
In the past fondue sets were mainly used for melted cheese but now they have several more uses (we have also written a complete guide about the Best Raclette Grills). Sometimes all you need is water and ingredients for a warm bowl of soup on a cold, wintry night.
In case of company, fondue sets can also be used as storage place for hors d’oeuvre‘s if the stove and stovetop space is occupied. It is also a great place to store chili, dip or sauce. Although, not all its uses are healthy. If you feel indulgent, you can always use an electric fondue pot as a deep fryer to fry onion rings, tempura or even calamari. Just avoid hot oil splatter by preparing the food in small batches.
Fondue sets are especially handy when experimenting with Oriental dishes. A set can be used as a hot pot where guests get to make their own food. Recipes can vary but the staples include meat, and vegetables that are added to the boiling water or broth. Throw chopsticks in the mix and you will find yourselves an authentic Asian cuisine.
A fondue set can also serve as a makeshift camping treat. It can be used to melt marshmallows and dip them in chocolate for some s’mores. And in case you are looking for some urban treats in the wilderness, you can also use it to make instant coffee or tea.
But not all its uses are related to cooking. A fondue set can also be used to make your living space more fragrant. By adding vanilla or lemon extract in water, you can allow a gentle fragrance to pervade your home. Choose other soothing scents if they work better.
Fondue sets are also an asset for beauty regimes. Facials require opening pores. By heating water in a pot and holding your face over it, you can allow your pores to open. After this, you can put on a cleansing mask and relax. By adding a few drop of essential oil, you can replicate a spa like experience.
And even if you have bought it and it is lying quietly in your storage room, you can always use it to store your utensils.
To find out which type of fondue set is best for you, you must first understand the types that exist.
Main types of Fondue Sets
The most important part of the equipment is the pot itself (also known as the caquelon). Below are the few types to consider:
Electric Fondue Pots: These are a great investment for fondue beginners or for novice cooks. All you need to do is plug it in, dip your bread and enjoy. Not all pots are dishwasher friendly, however, so make sure that you read the instructions carefully. The best electric fondue pots are made from stainless steel, which is great for meat and hot oil fondue. They have a non-stick surface that makes them easy to clean.
Ceramic Fondue Pots: These are great to use when preparing cheese or chocolate fondues that don’t require high flame.
Metal Fondue Pot: These are used for high heat when cooking, specifically meat and sea food. They can also be used for meat and cheese (if you are looking for multiple purposes for the fondue set, this is preferable).
Cheese Fondue Pots: These are typically made of earthenware, are flat at the bottom and have a wider opening so that people can dip easily. These work better than pots that are warmed with tea lights as cheese requires a constant temperature to keep it from solidifying. Adjustable alcohol or gel fuel burner can be used to maintain the constant temperature.
Broth Fondue Set: These are made from stainless steel, copper or cast iron so that they withstand high pressure without cracking. Ceramic pots are unable to endure the pressure.
Chocolate/Dessert Fondue pots: These are smaller than typical fondue pots and use tea lights to maintain the temperature for the melted chocolates. These are made from ceramic, porcelain, earthen ware, even tempered glass.
Key features for high quality fondue sets and other considerations
When choosing a fondue set, choose one from a reputable company that has the expertise. A fun evening can quickly turn sour in case a fondue pot breaks due to heat pressure or if your meal overcooks. To avoid this, choose a fondue pot with a specific purpose in mind.
Non-electric fondue pots: These use fire-gel containers for heat. They are ideal for indoor use as they are ambient and burn with little odor and soot. Small fondue sets use tea lights while cheese/chocolate fondue pots require a flame.
Electric fondue pots: These can be used for both oil and broth. They are easy to use and with a detachable cord they can be used around the house hazard free!
Right type of fuel: Unscented tea lights are used for chocolate fondue. Alcohol is the most common type of fuel for fondue burners. Certain precautions are mandatory such as not overfilling the container, keeping it separate from a heat source and not refilling the burner while it’s still hot. Alcohol can also be replaced with fondue gel, provided that the burner can accommodate it. Another alternative is sterno that is fuel in a box; this can be reused once the fuel is extinguished.
Fondue forks: These are divided into two types: meat and cheese fondue forks. These have two or three prongs and long handles to ensure that you don’t get burned by the oil, broth or cheese. Dessert forks are shorter but still long enough to be dipped in the melted chocolate without being burned.
Note: Ensure that the fork handles are heat proof. Disposable forks are also available for fondues or skewers but they should ideally be only used for desserts as plastic melts under high pressure. Bamboo stickers are a good alternative in case of emergencies. Check out our complete guide about Best Bakeware Sets.
To narrow down choices and consider the best one for your needs, have a look at our curated list of top electric fondue-sets:
This stainless steel fondue pot is resistant to cracks and can withstand high temperatures. Its splash guard stabilizes fondue forks during cooking and prevents burns. It also has a thermostatic controlled electric burner which allows temperature control and a burner with an aluminum plate that allows easy cleaning. It is UL Electric certified and makes for flame-less cooking and entertaining.
Its fondue forks with heat proof handles and splatter guard make it a safe purchase. And in case of complaints or damage, there is a 1 year warranty.
Uses and Capabilities
The detachable electric cord make it easy to use and in case you are unsure what to do with the set, there is an instruction manual with a recipe section to help you choose your first dish.
Aside from its traditional use for cheese fondue and bread chunks, it can also serve a variety of white, dark or milk chocolate. It’s a multipurpose set that can make meat, poultry or even meatballs.
It’ Ceramic Bain Marie insert protects the chocolate fondue from direct heat, scorching or burning. At the same time it offers cake chunks, marshmallows and other add ons for chocolate fondue dipping.
You can even choose your own cheese and wine combination. Use this for party dipping or even add vegetables, cooked protein or artisanal breads for a classic cheese fondue experience. Meals, appetizers and even desserts can easily be handled by this multipurpose fondue set. Consider this a great treat for yourself or even as a gift for baby showers, weddings or birthdays.
Additional Features
The recipe manual is a great way for newcomers to learn recipes and impress their guests. It is especially great for novice cooks and those who are uncomfortable with fondue sets.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
It is easy to clean and the design allows a quick changeover for meal preparation.
Its detachable power cord is a way to avoid unnecessary injuries.
Its flameless heat is an easy and fun way to entertain guests and ensures superior performance and quality.
Cons:
The heating element is slightly larger than the pot so with guests who are inclined to fiddle – there is a likelihood they could burn themselves.
Items that drip may also land on the burner.
The hot plate has circular grooves which make cleaning slightly more difficult if something does land on it.
However, these are small prices to pay in exchange for the ease of cleaning and making multiple dishes sequentially.
This electric fondue set is suitable for all kinds of dishes. It has a non-stick exterior with an elegant 3-quart stainless
steel bowl. The temperature control allows for all types of recipes. Its dignified construction allows it to be assembled and disassembled with ease. The brushed on ring, bowl and handles give it a contemporary touch.
It requires 1000 watts of power to operate and has been built to North American Electric standards. It’s easy to use and in case of damage or problems, you can avail the 3 year warranty.
Uses and Capabilities
This is a convenient and accommodating fondue set that allows you to invite friends and relax while serving great tasting fondue be it chocolate, broth, oil or cheese.
It is the perfect equipment for an intimate meal. It comes with a set of fondue forks that fit each dish and it comes with an instruction manual and recipe book for those looking for inspiration.
If you follow the recipes you will quickly be known as the host that makes unforgettable fondue.
Additional Features
At 6.25 inches height and 8.25 inches width, this fondue set is perfect even for a larger gathering. The same pot can be used for multiple different recipes and it cleans up easily enough for this to take place within one night as the clean-up is easy (provided that the temperature probe and cord are removed). The special fork rack at the top of the bowl makes it easy to hold the eight metallic forks at hand.
The heat level dial on the side allows temperature control so you avoid burning fondue at the bottom as you would with one with sterno heating. The optimal level for warmth is Level 3. Its wide base makes it perfect for South Western Cuisine. The clean-up is even easier as it is dishwasher friendly.
Pros
· It doesn’t have an open flame which makes it a great option for fondues with hot oil.
· Eight temperature nodes allows for a variety of fondues.
· The pot is wide and shallow enough to make it convenient to use for tortillas and dip.
Cons
· The fork rest can be flimsy, the stick is thin and shorter.
· The extension cord is too short and most dining tables don’t have power outlets close enough to charge it in company.
· Its metallic handles heat can make it difficult to hold in case of broth or hot oil fondue.
This Duraceramic fondue pot has a 3-quart capacity that makes it perfect for multiple servings. The adjustable temperature control makes it possible to have a wide menu and the magnetic breakaway add to its safety.
Suitable for up to eight guests, it has fondue forks and holder rings which make preparation easy whether you are serving appetizers or even gourmet food.
Uses and Capabilities
Its non-stick surface makes cleaning and food removal hassle free, and its cool touch handles allow you to hold it without any hesitation.
This silver fondue pot is perfect for entertaining and can shape the night for a fun evening with family and friends. It requires hand wash mainly due to its ceramic surface and for ideal results, apply low heat.
Additional features
It’s even heating helps maintain consistency and its dipping sticks make it perfect for company. The unique Duraceramic non-stick coating allows it to last four times long and it doesn’t flake upon cleaning. It cooks up to 20% faster than standard fare, allowing you to use your time well. For the best result use low temperatures and constantly stir.
Pros and Cons
Pros
It is quick to heat and starts off evenly hence maintains consistency.
Its non-stick surface makes it easy to clean.
Its ear handles make transportation efficient.
It has a sturdy built hence difficult to tip over.
Cons
The black ring on top of the forks does not lock properly.
The length of cord works as a counter top but not for table use without an extension cord.
The size of pot too large for smaller gatherings.
Cheese and chocolate fondues can coagulate at the bottom as temperature control is manual.
This fondue set is perfect for a group of two – four people. It comes with a heating cooktop, a utensil tray lid and a
Teflon bowl. It’s high powered heating (up to 800 watts) and bowl capacity (2+quartz) is perfect for a variety of dishes made from cheese or chocolate. Its power cord is also perfect for an intimate gathering where you won’t need to leave the room.
Uses and Capabilities
If you are used to the plug and play lifestyle, this fondue set is for you. It requires a simple plug in operation. Switch it on and through the adjustable temperature control, make any dish of your choice. It has a high-powered heating element but its usage is in you control.
Its nonstick and heat resistant bowl makes it easy to clean and reuse for multiple dishes within one night.
Additional Features
Its serving bowl is removable which means that you can wash and rinse the elements separately. Its cool-touch handles make sure that no matter how hot the meal is, you remain protected. It has a power LED indicator light which signifies usage. It comes with six color coded fondue sets which make it perfect for small parties. The manual is easy to follow plus the removable Teflon bowl and non-stick surface make cleaning up fun and quick.
Pros & Cons
Pros
The cool to touch handles and adjustable temperature makes serving easy.
Its heat resistant bowl makes it safe to place on countertops or kitchen tables.
The heated electric base helps melt cheese and chocolate.
It’s easy to assemble
Cons
Upon initial heating, there is a smell of burning plastic but the manual mentions that beforehand.
This fondue pot was made with the consumer at the front and center. The set includes a steel fondue pot, electric
burner and 8 fondue forks. It’s non-stick finish, cool to the touch handles and immersible pot makes it easy to clean by hand. It allows you to enjoy making fondue without having to worry about lighting sterno. The diameter of the pot (8 inches) makes it ideal for meat, chocolate or cheese fondue. You can even use it to heat oil.
Uses and Capabilities
The Rival fondue pot is a reasonably priced purchase with is perfect for all kinds of fondue. It can also be used to serve chili, dip or any kind of soup. Its size makes it easy to drip bred and the fork holder ring also protects against oil splashes when making oil fondue.
Additional Features
In order to make the product safe for its users, the electrical cord is connected to a magnetic breakaway plug which disconnects every time someone trips on the cord. Since there is no flame, it is also safe to have on the counter top and dinner table around children. The recipe book with the pot has some gems such as The Swiss Cheese Fondue Recipe, although be sure to measure the ingredients as per exact instructions. Additionally, it’s cool to the touch handles makes the pot safe to transport from the kitchen on to the serving tables.
Pros & Cons
Pros
The temperature remains consistent during the cooking process.
It assembles easily.
It is easy to use and clean.
Cons
It has a shorter electric cord which inhibits cooking and entertaining simultaneously.
The metal utensils could scrape the coating and leave residues in your food. Teflon can be toxic if it ends up in your food.
Although the magnetic breakaway club is great in theory, and for the naturally clumsy, the downside is that it disengages on the slightest of movements. This cause the oil to lose heat rapidly and can make the cooking process slower.
Nostalgia’s 2.4 liter capacity and blue-lit adjustable temperature control dial make it ideal for versatile cooking. Its
six color-coded forks work perfectly for guests and its stainless steel construction makes it a sturdy and reliable buy.
The cool to touch handles allow the buyer to use hold the pot with no fear of being burned.
Uses and Capabilities
Its design and ease of use makes it a different way to bring guests together and serve anything cooked in oil or broth. The cord is long enough for it to be a part of the dining and entertaining experience.
The various heat levels and temperature control allows a variety of dishes to be made and the recipe manual make it easy to think of different dishes to make.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Due its built and design, it heats quickly and evenly.
It is easy to use as it is a simple plug and play process.
The temperature control allows for a variety of dishes to be cooked.
Cons
The recipe booklet does not have instructions to cook with oil.
The unit is larger in size.
Soak the container after usage, otherwise it can be difficult to clean.
The Cuisinart fondue pot has a 3-quart capacity and is brushed stainless steel. Its nonstick pot and built-in thermostat make it easy to use and the glass lid allows you to watch your dish as you make it. It is easy to assemble and the forks and serving cups make it easy for everyone to access the food.
The built in heating element ensure that the food heats up quickly and evenly throughout the cooking process.
Uses and Capabilities
This is a crowd pleaser with its eight stainless steel forks and nonstick stainless serving cups. You can cook meat, fish or poultry at high temperatures and cheese and chocolate at lower temperatures. The non-stick feature make it easy to clean with unlimited options for recipes. It comes with a manual so you will be brimming with innovative party solutions for a while!
Additional Features
The Lazy Susan ring is removable and rotates, which gives everyone equal access. The cleanup is effortless as all parts can be disassembled easily and are dishwasher friendly.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Disassembling and dishwashing makes clean up easy.
Its stable legs and pot, and magnetic release electric cord make it safe.
The legs that elevate the pot are made of high impact plastic and are attached securely to the pot making it stable.
All parts are individually replaceable which means that in case you require a heating element, you can order that separately.
It is dual voltage and can be used anywhere in the world.
Cons
The fondue forks aren’t sturdy and make it difficult to hold the food; the pot holder does not keep the forks in place either.
The cord is too short and requires an extension cord to place it on the kitchen table.
The pot isn’t removable; since it’s attached to the legs it can make thorough cleaning a bit of a challenge.
The ring that holds the rotating containers is bulky hence can be difficult to clean as well.
This model is a great treat for all its users due to its multi-functionality. Its set includes a Bain-Marie Insert, six colored forks, a detachable magnetic power cord and an electric burner allowing for a flameless heat source that makes cooking easy and fun.
Its stainless steel exterior can withstand the heat without cracking and its splatter guard ensures that the cooking experience is hazard free.
Uses and Capabilities
The Zurich burner plate can be handy in many situations. While it can make cheese, chocolate or meat fondue, it can also be used as a separate burner as a stove top element.
Its clever design allows for a quick change over during meals and its high power makes it perfect for all kinds of fondue recipes. To make meat fondue you can use hot oil or clear broth. You can also avail different options for you protein: chopped protein or vegetables can be used in hot oil fondue and sliced protein and vegetable can be used for broth style fondue. A word of caution would be to remove the Bain Maria when using for meat based recipes.
You can use it for a traditional Swiss fondue night or even to create your rendition of a cheese and wine combination. It also makes for a great dipping surface for parties. Your chocolate fondue would also be the talk of any party, and no one would ever need to know how effortless it really is.
It’s wonderful for personal use as well as a perfect gift for those looking for a convenient cooking experience.
Additional Features
The Ceramic Bain Marie protects chocolate from direct heat exposure hence protecting it from scorching. The heat can also be controlled through the variable temperature that enables it’s multipurpose.
The flameless electric burner is controlled through a thermostat which helps regulate temperatures evenly and when you feel inclined for a regular meal, the pot burner can always be used as a stove top heating element. The splash guards protects the cooks from burns as well as the guests by stabilizing the fondue fork. It is recommended to hand wash all elements separately.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
The heat is evenly distributed due to its capsuled bottom.
The base, stainless steel pot and ceramic crock insert are well constructed and provide a nice finish.
Its aluminum heat plate makes it easy to clean.
Its variable temperature control provides options between cooking and warming food.
Its detachable magnetic power cord makes it easy to transport.
Cons:
Since the heating element is separate and slightly larger than the pot, it could cause guests to burn themselves.
Food dripping could land on the burner.
Its cord is short and cannot be placed as a center piece unless there is an extension cord.
This 3-quart fondue pot is a novice cookers dream come true. Its nonstick pot works for all types of fondue and its stay-cool handles and legs makes it perfect for use without any fear of burns.
It includes eight colored forks, eight fondue recipes and a removable fork ring. All of this is extremely easy to clean and can be used in a dish-washer as well. Its power output of 100 watts and temperature control makes it perfect for cheese, hot oil, broth and chocolate fondues.
Uses and Capabilities
The aluminum non-stick interior makes this fondue pot perfect for a clean-up and its 3 quarts size is ideal for up to eight guests.
Its electric burner can put a cook’s mind at ease as the temperature control allows you to cook hassle free. It is perfects for meals hot and cold. It is perfect for all types of recipes.
Additional Features
The eight forks also come with a removable ring that holds them in place in the pot. The fondue pot can be hand washed and once the temperature control is removed it is also ready for the dishwasher.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Its electric thermostat make heat control easy.
Its Teflon coating and non-stick surface make the cleanup quick.
It has a sturdy structure and the all-in-one construction make its usage convenient.
Cons:
Electric cords can be used as the center only with an extension cord.
Forks are not made of great quality consequently impacting their durability.
The coating can come off when scraped with the fork.
This fondue set is perfect for an intimate gathering or a meal in a restaurant. Its stainless steel surface and separate parts make it an easy clean and its adjustable temperature allows for an array of dishes.
The Aicok Fondue set comprises of a stainless pot, crock inset and a heft. It has cable storage and eight forks and a fork holder, making it a stress free experience with family and friends. It’s capacity of 1.5 quartz and two year warranty make it a sensible buy for those who want to experiment with fondue.
Uses and Capabilities
This is a great multipurpose fondue sets that is perfect for children and adults alike. Children can enjoy dishes like melting candy and chocolate. This is possible by adjusting the temperature control to lower settings so that it can melt without clumping the chocolate.
For the experimental adults, dishes like Chinese hot pot are possible. This can be an enriching and cultural experience for those looking to dabble in different cuisines.
Additional Features
The adjustable electric thermostat enables you to control the temperature as well as heat fast. It maintains consistent. The electric dessert fountain comes with a magnetic plug which stop working if pulled or tugged, preventing burns.
Its detachable parts make it perfect for a dishwasher cleanup and also enables you to use the elements for different purposes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Its thermostat controls heat and spreads it evenly.
It’s large enough to serve a gathering.
Its nonstick surface makes it easy to clean.
Cons:
If not managed, the magnetic plug can fall easily causing the food to lose heat rapidly.
The highest temperature is not high enough for some meats.
and great for your health.
consider:
turn sour in case a fondue pot breaks due to heat pressure or if your meal overcooks. To avoid this, choose a fondue pot with a specific purpose in mind.
fondue forks during cooking and prevents burns. It also has a thermostatic controlled electric burner which allows temperature control and a burner with an aluminum plate that allows easy cleaning. It is UL Electric certified and makes for flame-less cooking and entertaining.
temperature control makes it possible to have a wide menu and the magnetic breakaway add to its safety.
thermostat make it easy to use and the glass lid allows you to watch your dish as you make it. It is easy to assemble and the forks and serving cups make it easy for everyone to access the food.
parts make it an easy clean and its adjustable temperature allows for an array of dishes.
