In the world of Skyrim, Elsweyr Fondue is a prized dish known for its magical properties, boosting magicka regeneration. Made with ale, Eidar cheese, and the ever-mysterious Moon Sugar, it's a favorite in taverns across the land. While we can't promise any magical effects, we can deliver a delicious, real-world cheese fondue inspired by it.
This recipe creates a rich, savory, and smooth cheese fondue, perfect for dipping crusty bread, apples, or roasted vegetables. It's a fun, communal meal that captures the cozy spirit of a Skyrim inn.
Ingredients for Elsweyr Fondue
This recipe is enough for 2-4 people to share as an appetizer or light meal. The key to smooth fondue is using good quality cheese and adding it slowly.
- 1 clove garlic, halved
- 1 cup pale ale or a light-bodied beer
- 8 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- A pinch of ground nutmeg (our stand-in for Moon Sugar)
- A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- For dipping: Cubed crusty bread, apple slices, steamed broccoli, roasted potatoes
How to Make Your Fondue
Making fondue on the stovetop is simple. The main rule is to keep the heat low and stir constantly to prevent the cheese from breaking or burning.
Step 1: Prepare the Pot
Rub the inside of a medium saucepan or fondue pot with the cut sides of the garlic clove, then discard the garlic. This imparts a subtle garlic flavor to the fondue without being overpowering.
Step 2: Heat the Ale
Pour the pale ale into the saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Do not let it boil.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
In a separate bowl, toss the shredded cheeses with the cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This prevents the cheese from clumping. Reduce the heat under the saucepan to low. Add the cheese to the simmering ale a handful at a time, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or whisk until each addition is fully melted before adding the next. Keep stirring until the fondue is smooth.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Once the cheese is completely melted and smooth, stir in the nutmeg and the optional hot sauce or cayenne. Transfer the mixture to a fondue pot kept warm over a low flame, or serve it directly from the saucepan. Arrange your dipping items on a platter and enjoy immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don't want to use ale?
You can substitute the ale with a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or for a non-alcoholic version, use non-alcoholic beer or even apple cider. The flavor will be different but still delicious.
My fondue is stringy/lumpy. How can I fix it?
This usually happens if the heat is too high or the cheese was added too quickly. Keep the heat low and try stirring vigorously. A small squeeze of lemon juice can sometimes help bring a broken fondue back together.
What is Moon Sugar, really?
In the world of The Elder Scrolls, Moon Sugar is a substance derived from the grasses of Elsweyr. In our recipe, we use nutmeg to add a warm, slightly sweet spice note that complements the cheese and ale, giving it a unique flavor beyond a standard fondue.
Key Takeaways
- Elsweyr Fondue is a food item from the game The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.
- This real-world version is a cheese fondue made with ale, Gruyère, and cheddar.
- Tossing the shredded cheese in cornstarch is crucial for a smooth texture.
- Keep the heat low and add the cheese gradually to prevent it from breaking.
- Nutmeg is used as a flavorful stand-in for the fictional 'Moon Sugar'.
Related Reading
- Real-World Recipe: How to Bake the Stolen Sweet Roll from Skyrim
- Real-World Recipe: How to Make a Horker Loaf from Skyrim
- Real-World Recipe: How to Make Stuffed Cabbage from Final Fantasy XIV