Fondue with Raclette and Thyme

Name: Fondue with Raclette and Thyme
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g Raclette cheese, grated; 200ml dry white wine; 1 clove garlic, halved; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper, to taste; Crusty bread, for dipping

Highlighted under: Dessert Delights Co.

I absolutely adore fondue, and this Fondue with Raclette and Thyme has become one of my favorites! The rich, melted cheese combines beautifully with the earthy flavors of thyme, creating a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. I love how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for cozy gatherings. Every time I serve this fondue, I'm warmly reminded of the delightful moments spent around the table with friends, dipping crusty bread and enjoying the vibrant blend of flavors. It truly feels like a special occasion, making any night feel extraordinary.

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:52:18.610Z

Diving into this Fondue with Raclette and Thyme was an adventure in flavors for me. The aroma that filled my kitchen while the cheese melted was simply irresistible. I carefully selected fresh thyme from my herb garden, and it made all the difference. The key is allowing the cheese to melt slowly and gently, ensuring a creamy texture that invites everyone to gather around the pot.

Each bite reminded me of my travels in Switzerland, where fondue is a cherished tradition. I found that pairing it with freshly baked bread enhances the experience, providing the perfect vehicle for scooping up that luscious cheese. It’s an unforgettable combination that brings joy to any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Creamy melted Raclette creates a decadent texture
Fresh thyme adds a delightful herbal note
Perfect for social gatherings or cozy nights in

      

The Role of Raclette Cheese

Raclette cheese is the star of this fondue, known for its excellent melting properties. It becomes wonderfully gooey and silky when heated, creating that quintessential fondue texture. Make sure to use high-quality cheese, as it significantly impacts the final flavor and melt. When grating, aim for fine shreds, which will melt more evenly and integrate smoothly with the wine, enhancing the overall creaminess of the dish.

One common challenge is achieving the perfect melt without clumping. To avoid this, ensure the cheese is at room temperature before starting. If you can, grate the cheese a bit ahead of time and let it sit out for about 30 minutes. This small step makes a remarkable difference in achieving that smooth and luxurious fondue consistency!

Wine Selection and Its Importance

The type of dry white wine you choose enhances the fondue's flavor profile. A Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling works beautifully, contributing acidity that balances the richness of the Raclette. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they will disrupt the savory notes of the cheese. Ideally, opt for a wine that you would enjoy drinking, as its flavors will intensify during cooking, affecting the end result.

When combining the cheese and wine, keep the heat low to prevent the mixture from scorching. Slow warming allows the cheese to melt gradually, resulting in a wonderfully creamy blend without any graininess. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon; the motion helps to incorporate the wine fully, leading to a glossy finish that’s utterly inviting.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Presentation plays a key role in the fondue experience. A classic way to serve this dish is with a rustic wooden board adorned with various accompaniments. Beyond crusty bread, consider adding boiled potatoes, sliced apples, or even pickles, which all pair well with the decadent cheese. The contrast of textures and flavors elevates the fondue experience, making it even more enjoyable.

If you're planning a gathering, consider creating a fondue bar by offering different dipping options like grilled vegetables, cured meats, or even roasted mushrooms. To keep the fondue warm while serving, use a tabletop burner or a fondue pot designed to maintain heat. This way, everyone can enjoy the melty goodness without worrying about it cooling down too quickly!

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients for a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.

Fondue Ingredients

400g Raclette cheese, grated
200ml dry white wine
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, for dipping

These simple ingredients combine to create a rich and flavorful fondue.

Instructions

Let's prepare this delicious fondue step by step.

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to impart a subtle garlic flavor.

Combine Cheese and Wine

In the pot, combine the grated Raclette cheese and dry white wine over low heat. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and creamy.

Add Thyme and Seasoning

Once the cheese has melted, mix in the fresh thyme leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the fondue hot with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your fondue experience!

Make sure to keep the fondue warm while it's served for the best experience.

Pro Tips

For a smoother consistency, consider adding a teaspoon of cornstarch to the cheese mixture before melting.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing for fondue night can be a breeze if you manage your ingredients smartly. You can pre-grate the Raclette cheese and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days ahead of time. This not only saves time but also allows the cheese to come to room temperature before you start cooking, ensuring that it melts perfectly.

As for the thyme, you can rinse and dry the leaves earlier in the day. Store them in a damp paper towel within a plastic bag to maintain their freshness. This preparation cuts down on meal-time stress, allowing you to spend more time with your guests rather than in the kitchen.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fondue is too thick, it can be a direct result of using too much cheese or not enough wine. A quick fix is to add a little more wine, about a tablespoon at a time, stirring until smooth. This will help loosen the mixture and make it more dippable without losing any flavor.

Conversely, if your fondue turns out too thin, it often indicates that the heat was too high, causing excess moisture. To remedy this situation, you can thicken it by stirring in a bit of cornstarch (mixed with a small amount of water) and heating gently while mixing until you reach the desired consistency.

Variations on the Classic

Feel free to customize your fondue with additional flavors! For instance, adding a splash of kirsch (cherry brandy) enhances the flavor and adds to the fondue’s authenticity. A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or a drizzle of truffle oil can also elevate the classic recipe to a whole new level of indulgence.

Vegetarian options can be easily integrated by replacing wine with vegetable broth. This adjustment still provides a lovely depth of flavor while catering to those avoiding alcohol. You can also enhance the mix with roasted garlic for an added layer of creaminess and savoriness that complements the rich Raclette perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute Raclette cheese?

Yes, you can use Gruyère or Emmental cheese if Raclette is unavailable.

→ What type of wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works well, but avoid sweet wines.

→ How can I keep the fondue warm?

Using a fondue pot with a low flame or a candle can help maintain the temperature.

→ What can I dip besides bread?

Vegetables such as blanched broccoli, carrots, or even apples pair well with the cheese.