Fondue Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fondue
[หfษndjuห ]
Definitions
cheese dish
A Swiss dish of melted cheese served in a communal pot over a portable stove, and eaten by dipping bread into the cheese using long-stemmed forks.
Synonyms
cheese fondue, melted cheese dish.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fondue |
Used generally to refer to a dish where small pieces of food are dipped into a pot of hot liquid, such as melted cheese, chocolate, or oil. This could be in a social or dining context.
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| cheese fondue |
Specifically used when referring to the type of fondue that involves dipping bread, vegetables, or other items into melted cheese. Commonly associated with Swiss cuisine and often served in colder months.
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| melted cheese dish |
A more general term that could refer to any dish involving melted cheese. This isn't limited to fondue and can include other culinary creations like nachos, queso dip, or raclette.
|
Examples of usage
- People enjoy gathering around the fondue pot at parties.
- She made a delicious fondue with Gruyรจre and Emmental cheese.
chocolate dish
A dessert dish of melted chocolate served in a communal pot over a portable stove, and eaten by dipping fruits, marshmallows, or other sweets into the chocolate.
Synonyms
chocolate fondue, melted chocolate dish.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fondue |
This term is most generic and can refer to any type of fondue, be it cheese, chocolate, or even oil. It's suitable when the specific type of fondue is not essential.
|
| chocolate fondue |
Use this when specifically referring to a dessert dish where pieces of fruits, marshmallows, or other items are dipped into melted chocolate. Perfect for dessert menus and special occasions.
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| melted chocolate dish |
This term is less specific and can describe any dish that prominently features melted chocolate. It might be used in more formal contexts or in written recipes.
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Examples of usage
- The highlight of the evening was the chocolate fondue.
- They had a variety of treats to dip in the chocolate fondue.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Culinary Origins
- Originating in Switzerland, the dish traditionally used local cheese like Gruyรจre to create the cheesy melt.
- The name 'fondue' comes from the French word 'fondre,' which means 'to melt.'
Cultural Significance
- In Swiss culture, fondue is not just a meal but a social event, often shared among friends and family.
- Recipes for fondue can vary widely by region, incorporating local cheeses or ingredients, highlighting cultural flavors.
Popular Variations
- Beyond cheese, chocolate fondue has become a popular dessert, where fruits and sweets are dipped in melted chocolate.
- A unique variation includes oil fondue, where meats and vegetables are cooked in hot oil at the table.
Historical Context
- In the 19th century, fondue gained popularity in Switzerland as a meal for colder seasons, providing warmth and comfort.
- The dish was introduced to America in the 1960s, becoming popular in social dining and romantic settings.
Science of Flavor
- The melting point of cheese is crucial for fondue; each cheese has a different texture when melted, affecting taste.
- The balance of acidity in dipping items can enhance the flavor experience, making creamy cheese or sweet chocolate more enjoyable.
Origin of 'fondue'
The word 'fondue' comes from the French word 'fondre', which means 'to melt'. Fondue originated in Switzerland as a way to use up hardened cheese and stale bread during the winter months. It became popular in the United States in the 1960s as a trendy party dish.