With the increasingly colder and darker nights drawing in, shoppers are turning to comforting kitchen classics to bring joy to both the everyday and special occasions with loved ones while cosied up indoors. This winter, Asda predicts it’s the classic cheese fondue that’ll be on people’s minds and tables. The iconically cheesy sharing dish has been popping up on trendy restaurant menus across London and beyond, as Brits look past great-tasting food and search for festive food experiences this Christmas.
Asda’s latest festive offering provides just that. The Exceptional Sirloin Steak Fondue with Wykes Farm Vintage Cheddar Bake (£15) taps into Brits’ appetite for comfort foods with a modern twist, providing shoppers with a sharing experience that brings guests together around the table. The dish lends itself perfectly as a starter for four or could even be enjoyed amongst a series of sharing plates in a main course, nestled amongst other heart-warming dishes such as the Exceptional Melt in the Middle Camembert & Pork Pie or Exceptional Bone Marrow Beef Pie.
Lovingly created by Somerset-based cheese producers Wyke Farm, the Wykes Farm Cheddar is made to a secret family recipe passed down through four generations. Combined with Scottish cream and mustard, it gives a rich and tangy flavour that’s perfect for an indulgent fondue.
And for a truly premium dipping experience, the new dish comes complete with tender British sirloin steaks, matured for 30 days for exceptional succulence and rich, melt-in-the-mouth flavour.
Whilst recent years have seen sudden increased demand for retro food and drink, with desserts like Black Forest Gateau and Lemon Meringue Pie soaring in popularity, more recently, Asda says it’s classic savoury dishes, such as vol-au-vents and devilled eggs that are experiencing a resurgence, and this Christmas, fondue is the biggest one-to-watch.
Rich Harding, Senior Innovation Chef at Asda says “Fondue and baking cheeses are having a moment because fondue isn’t just food; it’s an experience. It combines comfort, indulgence, and interaction, making it the perfect centrepiece for festive gatherings. Guests can participate by dipping their favourite foods into a communal pot of rich, melted cheese, fostering a sense of togetherness.”
For the most delectable Exceptional Sirloin Steak Fondue with Wykes Farm Vintage Cheddar Bake (£15) dining experience, Rich has shared his top tips for an at-home fondue night to remember:
Add a twist
I love to experiment with extra ingredients to elevate the flavour – a squeeze of tomato purée will add a rich, umami boost, or for a tangier, spicier kick, mustard is your friend. Stirring through fresh herbs like thyme, chives or parsley will also help to add freshness and aroma to your fondue.
More cheese!
Whilst Wykes Cheddar infuses a sharp, robust flavour, you could also melt and stir through Gruyère, known for its nutty, slightly sweet flavour, or for buttery and fruity depth, try Comté. Edam can also bring a mild, slightly tangy profile.
Creative dipping
Traditionally, fondue is served with crusty bread and vegetables, but this year we’ve elevated the fondue with Asda’s Exceptional Sirloin Steak. Some of my other surprising but delicious fondue vessels are:
Sausages
Gherkins
Roast potatoes
Mushrooms
Apples
Pretzels
The Exceptional Sirloin Steak Fondue with Wykes Farm Vintage Cheddar Bake (£15) serves four and is available to shop in store and online from 5 December.
