Cheese Fondue

Directions

1. 1.

   Rub inside of a 4-quart heavy pot with cut sides of garlic, then discard garlic. Add wine to pot and bring just to a simmer over moderate heat.

2. 2.

   Stir together cornstarch and kirsch (if using; otherwise, use water or wine) in a cup.

3. 3.

   Gradually add cheese to pot and cook, stirring constantly in a zigzag pattern (not a circular motion) to prevent cheese from balling up, until cheese is just melted and creamy (do not let boil). Stir cornstarch mixture again and stir into fondue. Bring fondue to a simmer and cook, stirring, until thickened, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer to fondue pot set over a flame.

4. 4.

   •Cubes of French bread

5. 5.

   •Cubes of apple and pear

6. 6.

   •Roasted potatoes

7. 7.

   •Julienned raw red bell pepper

8. 8.

   •Blanched broccoli florets

9. 9.

   •Dry white wine such as dry Riesling or Sancerre

10. 10.

    •German lager or Saison-style ale

11. 11.

    •Farmhouse cider

12. 12.

    •Fino Sherry