Chef Cary responds to Cathy’s search for non-alcoholic ingredient substitutions for her cheese fondue. You definitely can replace the wine with 75% water and 25% lemon juice. White grape juice might be nice as well but add 1/4 part lemon juice to simulate the acidity in the wine. For the kirsch substitution, you might omit it altogether. Or, purchase Torani brand cherry or black currant syrup. Torani uses all natural ingredients and no alcohol. Torani brand is not available at Albertson’s, Gelson’s, or Trader Joe’s but check with Whole Foods Markets, Ralph’s or any Italian specialty store. Be sure to taste your cheese while adding these sweet syrups. McCormick also makes an imitation cherry extract but it contains 20% alcohol. If using extract, just use a small amount as you would vanilla or almond extract.

If you have any questions while cooking, do not hesitate to call ChefsLine, the culinary hotline, at 1-800-977-1224. Fondue is a festive choice for the Holidays - Happy Cooking!