It has been a few years since I have written about fondue, but given that this is National Fondue month, it is a good time to reflect on Fondue again. Fondue is one of those foods which has varied in its popularity over time. However, in some cultures, like Switzerland, fondue is a sacred food. For one very simple reason. It is a meal you can share with people you love. There are some spiritual values in fondue, which are difficult to find in other types of meals.
Fondue is about more than people gathering around a table to share a meal. Fondue is a communal dish. Each and every person gathered around the table is connecting with each other every time they dip something into the fondue pot. It is not so important what is in the fondue pot. It can be cheese, chocolate, or some other form of awesomeness. Nor does it matter what one is dipping into the fondue pot. It could be cheese, berries, or some other delicious dipper. It is the process of sharing a pool into which we all enter and engage.
Eating fondue reminds us to slow down and appreciate time with each other. Especially in this season, we are busy. Eating fondue is a time to sit down, share a homemade meal, sit, talk, and share an experience. Eating fondue allows us to share food and conversation with those we love.
While fondue is communal, it is also one that can be rich in family history and tradition. I have one friend who always adds cloves of garlic to their cheese fondue. Different friends use different cheeses or chocolates in making their fondue. What they choose has meanings to them, especially those I know who are from Switzerland. The cheese they choose is related to where in the country they come from.
Fondue is one of those meals that is not about speed, but slow appreciation. Fondue cannot be made or eaten quickly. It isn’t a meal where you quickly eat, gather and depart, only to return the next day for leftovers. It is one of those meals that is eaten in one sitting, slowly, over a conversation, sharing, and the creation of memories. Fondue is more than something you dip into, it is a way of bringing people together and building connections amongst people.
Fondue ties into the mission of Pampered Chef as well, which is to enrich people’s lives, one meal and one memory at a time. A great way to prepare for a fondue party is with our Rockcrok Everyday Pan and Slow Cooker Stand. Here are a few recipes you might want to try, from the Pampered Chef website and a few others, the next time you gather with loved ones for a fondue gathering.
Fondue recipes from Epicurious
To learn more about Rockcrok Everyday Pan and Slow Cooker Stand visit. https://www.pamperedchef.com/pws/sharonjacobson/shop/Cookware/Cookware/Rockcrok2_5-qt_+Slow+Cooker+Set/3116