Ingredients

  • 1 cup hard apple cider or 1 cup hard pear cider
  • 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
  • 4 cups shredded gruyere cheese
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch, plus
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon calvados (or apple jack, Poire William)
  • fresh ground black pepper
  • crusty bread, cubes
  • granny smith apple, slices
  • bosc pear, slices
  • sliced grilled kielbasa

Method

  • Combine the cider and vinegar in a nonreactive medium saucepan.
  • Stirring to dissipate the bubbles, bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  • Decrease heat to med-low; the liquid should barely simmer.
  • Toss the Gruyere with the cornstarch in a large bowl to coat the cheese.
  • A handful at a time, whisk the cheese into the simmering cider mixture, whisking until the first batch is melted before adding more.
  • When all the cheese has been added, return the heat to medium and heat just until the fondue bubbles a few times; do not overcook.
  • Remove from the heat and stir in the Calvados; season with pepper.
  • Transfer to a fondue pot set on its trivet over the flame.
  • Arrange the bread, apples, and sausage for dipping on a platter.
  • Serve the fondue hot with fondue forks and the platter of dipping ingredients.