Everything ingenious is not only simple, but also practical. Fondue can mean any food dipped in melted cheese, butter or chocolate. There are several types of heat sources used in fondue burners. Each kit contains an instruction manual that lists the recommended fuel and tips for using it safely.
How to choose fondue fuel
Fondue sets consist of:
- pot (in the homeland of the dish, in Switzerland, it is called "caquelon", we have got accustomed to the simple name "fondyushnitsa");
- stand on which it is located;
- burner, which is located under the stand and is designed to heat the contents of the fondue pot.
Sets are equipped with long special skewers. Given that the main feature of such a dish is that the product must be hot all the time, constant maintenance of the required temperature of the contents of the pot is required. You should also be aware that differentrecipes require their own heat level. The choice of fuel for fondue also depends on this.
Of course, there are electric fondue makers. But what compares to the allure of primordial fire cooking?
Alcohol fuel
It can be used for both strong and weak fire. Only denatured or isopropyl alcohol and butane are used as liquid fuels.
Portable fuel burners usually consist of a fuel container, a flame regulator and a cover. The liquid burner contains a wick or fiber spacer protruding from above. If using an alcohol burner, fill it halfway - about 90 ml. Matches are needed to light the fuse. Leave the air hole open. The larger the hole, the more heat comes out of the burner. Never try to add fuel while it is burning - it is dangerous. To extinguish the flame, simply put the cap on the burner.
Liquid fuel creates more heat than helium, so you can use liquid alcohol fuel for hot oil and hot fondue stock. The fuel for the burner must fill the container with the recommended level of liquid fuel. Do not overfill or tilt containers which will cause liquid fuel to spill, drip or leak.
Gel
Fuels such as fondue gel are made from ethanol. It is safe for humans, has no smell, does not smoke when burned. In addition, the gel consistency is the most convenient to use.
Fuel is usually supplied in small cans for single use in the form of a jar with a wick. If such a jar is opened, then the gel remaining after application will no longer be stored.
Similar bottled fondue fuel is usually sold in large quantities. A liter bottle is enough for about ten applications. The required amount is simply poured into the reusable burner included in the kit.
The gel is good for making fondue, but it won't get as hot as alcohol or butane. Helium fuel is great for cheese and chocolate fondue.
Tea candles
Tea candles as fondue fuel are only good for keeping the chocolate mixture warm. They will not provide enough heat for any other type of fondue. Yes, and it is advisable to pre-melt the chocolate in the microwave or on a steam bath. Otherwise, you need to be prepared to wait a long time until the heat from the tealight melts it. You will also need at least three of these candles to achieve an acceptable result.
Finally fuel tips:
- Never leave a candle or burner unattended.
- Keep fondue fuel away from fire and away from children.
- Keep flammable liquids away from the tablecloth for the safety of your guests.
