Classic Swiss Cheese Fondue

When you read the recipe below, you will quickly realize that there is nothing 'light' or 'healthified' about it.  I really do try to eat as healthfully as possible, and I am working on eliminating all sorts of negative preservatives, food dyes, and other ingredients.  That said, there are still times for indulgence, and a visit from family is definitely one of them!  My mom and Aunt Nancy made the trip from Michigan to Cincinnati and since my aunt is the one who gave us the fondue pot and cookbook as a wedding present, it seemed the perfect time for the pot to make its debut.

Recipe: (from Not Your Mother's Fondue)
1 cup dry white wine
2/3 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon all purpose flour
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons dry mustard
pinch of nutmeg
8 ounces Gruyere cheese, cubed
8 ounces Emmenthaler (swiss) cheese, cubed
2 tablespoons cherry liqueur (I omitted)
freshly ground black pepper to taste

1. Heat the wine, cream, garlic, flour, mustard, and nutmeg in a large fondue pot over low heat.  When the mixture begins to boil, simmer for 5 minutes or until very slightly thickened.

2. Stir in the cheeses and the liqueur and season with pepper.  Heat, stirring frequently to keep the mixture from sticking to the bottom. (This step takes awhile - 20-30 minutes.)

3. When the cheese has melted and the mixture is thick and creamy, serve, being sure to keep the heat setting at the lowest level.

4. Serve with a selection of dippers.  Suggestions include: French bread cubes, seasonal raw or steamed vegetables such as broccoli florets, carrot sticks, or celery. (Diva Note: I served with the French bread, raw broccoli, raw cauliflower, Parmesan cheese sticks and (at my mom's suggestion) chicken sausage from Trader Joe's - this was a wonderful addition that made it feel like more of a real meal).

Nutrition Information: Honestly, there are some things we're better off not knowing...

Verdict:
The fondue got thumbs up all around (if you like Swiss cheese)!  Although time consuming to make (thank goodness for kitchen helpers), sitting around chatting, dipping your choice of food, and sipping wine with family is an enjoyable and unique dining experience.  Given the list of ingredients, I won't be making it often... but I do look forward to making this and other fondue creations in the future!