Fondue Pots Materials Guide

A variety of materials exist for fondue pots, each with unique properties and considerations. Fondue sets are generally comprised of several parts: a pot, a lid, forks, a stand, and a heat source, although many of the accessories can be purchased separately. Some elements of these sets are indispensable, like the traditional pot ("caquelon"), while others, like the forks, can be improvised with supplies already in the kitchen. Some fondue sets serve only to keep fondue that has been cooked elsewhere at an optimal serving temperature, while other sets include a pan that can travel from the stove to table. Consider these slight variations in form and function before settling on a particular finish.

A fondue pot should be comprised of a material that conducts heat evenly. Many of the ingredients burn easily and a good fondue needs even heat to create an ideal texture.

Make and Model

• Stainless steel handles heat well, especially if paired with a diffuser, so this material can work well for Asian-influenced dishes that use oil or broth. These pots can be heated using different technologies (charcoal, candles, canisters, or gels). Look for sets that include ceramic inserts for making chocolate or cheese fondue to make the set more versatile.
• Earthenware pots or ceramics, perfect for minimalists and purists, convey rustic charm and respect the history of Swiss fondue. These pots are used mostly to serve fondue cooked on a stove and are simple to operate, but don't offer any modern features. They are specialized in their operation and don't adapt well to other uses.
• Electric fondue pots capitalize on the user-friendliness of stainless steel, but add modern features like a thermostat and a heating element. The same pot can be uses to cook and serve the dish, a time saving convenience for a preparation that can take a considerable amount of time to reach perfection. Ideal for cheese or chocolate fondues, Asian hotpot or French Beef Bourguignonne, these pots come in large sizes for bigger groups.
• Smaller enamelware dessert sets fitted with votive candle holders for serving only chocolate fondue exist, but their size and relatively delicate construction make them unsuitable for many other dishes.