All ingenious is not only simple, but also practical. Fondue can mean any meal dipped in melted cheese, butter, or chocolate. There are several types of heat sources used in fondue burners. Each kit contains instructions for recommended fuel and tips for using it safely.
How to choose fondue fuel
Fondue sets consist of:
- a pot (in the homeland of the dish, in Switzerland, it is called "kakelon", the simple name "fondue" has taken root in us);
- stand on which it is located;
- burner, which is located under the stand and is designed to heat the contents of the fondue.
Kits are equipped with long special forks-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 know that different recipes require their level of heating. The choice of fuel for fondue depends on this.
Of course, there are electric fonduits. But what compares to the charm of primitive cooking on fire?
Alcohol fuel
It can be used for both strong and low fire. Only denatured or isopropyl alcohol, as well as butane, are used as liquid fuel.
Portable fuel burners typically consist of a fuel container, flame regulator and cap. The liquid burner contains a wick or spacer of fiber protruding from above. If using an alcohol burner, fill it halfway - about 90 ml. Matches are needed to light a wick. Leave the air hole open. The larger the hole, the more heat leaves the burner. Never try to add fuel when 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 for hot oil and hot fondue broth. Fuel for the burner should fill the container with the recommended level of liquid fuel. Do not overfill or tilt containers, resulting in spillage, dripping, or leakage of liquid fuel.
Gel
Fuels such as fondue gel are based on ethanol. It is safe for humans, has no smell, does not smoke during burning. In addition, the gel consistency is 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 open, then the gel remaining after use will no longer be stored.
Similar fondue fuels in bottles are usually sold in large volumes. A liter bottle is enough for about ten uses. The required amount is simply poured into the refillable burner included in the kit.
The gel is good for preparing fondue, but it will not heat up as much as alcohol or butane. Helium fuel is great for cheese and chocolate fondue.
Tea lights
Tea lights 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 in a steam bath. Otherwise, you need to be prepared to wait a long time until the heat from the tea candle melts it. It will also require at least three such candles to achieve an acceptable result.
In conclusion, tips for using fuel:
- Never leave a candle or burner unattended.
- Keep fondue fuel away from fire and away from children.
- Do not let flammable liquid get on the tablecloth for the safety of your guests.