Description
This Smoked Sausage and Endive Fondue is a delightful twist on traditional fondue, combining the slightly bitter crunch of sautéed endives with rich, melted Gruyère and Emmental cheeses. Smoked sausages add a savory depth, making this dish perfect for sharing with sliced baguette on a cozy evening. With a creamy cheese sauce and tender, caramelized endives, this recipe delivers a deliciously comforting and flavorful fondue experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Meat
- 4 endives, sliced lengthwise
- 4 smoked sausages
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 1 cup grated Emmental cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus 2 tablespoons for roux)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
Serving
- Sliced baguette or bread for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the Endives: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced endives and minced garlic. Sauté until the endives soften and slightly caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to ensure a smooth mixture. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Slowly add the grated Gruyère and Emmental cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit more nutmeg to taste.
- Cook the Smoked Sausages: While the cheese sauce simmers, heat a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the smoked sausages and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and heated through, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Assemble the Fondue: Transfer the sautéed endives to a serving dish or fondue pot. Pour the warm cheese sauce over the endives. Arrange the browned smoked sausages on top or alongside the endives. Serve immediately with sliced baguette or bread for dipping and enjoy your hearty and comforting fondue.
Notes
- Use good quality Gruyère and Emmental cheeses for the best flavor and smooth melting texture.
- Make sure to stir the cheese sauce constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a creamy finish.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of mustard to the cheese sauce.
- Choose a crusty bread like a baguette that can hold up well when dipped into the rich cheese sauce.
- Endives can be slightly bitter; if preferred, blanch them briefly before sautéing to mellow their flavor.
