An electric fondue set with a grill is ideal for a family meal, an evening with friends or a special occasion without having to use several pans on the hob. However, appliances vary considerably in capacity, temperature control, ease of cleaning and safety. A low price doesn’t mean much if the fondue pot is too small, the grill plate is difficult to clean or the cord gets in the way.
So pay particular attention to the design and product specifications. Read on to find out which common pitfalls to avoid, which features matter and which models suit different needs.
An appliance said to be suitable for six people may not have enough room to grill and fondue at the same time. Check the capacity of the pot. A 2-litre fondue pot gives you more practical space for stock, oil or another fondue base than a compact model, but the amount of food per person still depends on how you prepare it.
Pay attention to the shape of the grill plate, too. A narrow plate may suit a small group, but it can quickly become crowded when everyone wants to cook meat, fish and vegetables at the same time.
The term non-stick doesn’t automatically tell you what the coating is made from. If you’re looking for a PFAS-free fondue set, check that this is stated explicitly in the product information. The Fritel FG 2970 is listed as PFAS-free in its product specifications. For other models, don’t assume that the coating is PFAS-free.
A non-stick coating also needs careful handling. Use wooden or plastic utensils and avoid scouring pads, unless the instructions say otherwise.
Dried-on stock, grease and grill residue can make an appliance less pleasant to use. Check whether the pot and grill plate are removable and whether they’re dishwasher-safe. Be aware of the difference between dishwasher-safe parts and a base that’s fully dishwasher-safe: the electric heating element must not be submerged.
For two to six people, a complete fondue set with 6 forks is a practical choice. That way, you won’t need to look for extra accessories. A pot of around 2 litres can suit a group of up to six, as long as you don’t overfill it.
Also think about the type of fondue you’ll be making:
An electric fondue pot rated at 1950 watts can provide enough power to heat a larger quantity of liquid and warm the grill plate. However, wattage alone doesn’t determine the cooking results. An adjustable thermostat is just as important, as stock, oil and grilled food all need different levels of heat.
Check whether you can adjust the temperature manually and whether the controls are easy to reach when the appliance is on the table.
A stainless-steel pot is practical for liquid fondue and can stand up to regular use. Also check:
A tabletop model measuring around 32.3 × 42.5 × 16.8 cm takes up more space than an ordinary pan. Measure your table and storage space beforehand, and leave plenty of clear space around the appliance.
Why it suits this type of user: This model combines fondue and grilling in one tabletop appliance and, according to the product specifications, is suitable for two to six people. That means beginners don’t have to buy several appliances straight away.
The product specifications list a 2-litre capacity, six fondue forks, adjustable temperature and a PFAS-free design. The pot and grill plate are removable and, according to the same information, dishwasher-safe.
1950 watts, two functions that can be used separately or at the same time, a 2-litre capacity and a two-year manufacturer’s warranty, according to the product information.
Why it suits this type of user: If you mainly want to grill and don’t need a deep fondue pot, this model offers several grill settings for meat, fish, vegetables and bread.
Its three cooking positions make it more versatile than a grill with just one fixed setting. The drip tray is removable and, according to the product information, dishwasher-safe.
2000 watts, contact, open and oven settings, vertical storage and an integrated drip tray.
Why it suits this type of user: This grill is designed for households that grill regularly and value features such as temperature control, a removable plate and a drip tray.
The product information lists a removable non-stick plate, thermostat, cool-touch handles and dishwasher-safe plates. Always check the instructions for exact cleaning guidance before use.
2000 watts, 4-litre capacity, adjustable temperature and a removable drip tray, according to the product specifications.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and current European safety requirements.
Place the appliance on a stable, heat-resistant table and make sure the cord is out of the way. Don’t fill the fondue pot above the indicated limit. After use, let the pot and grill plate cool completely before removing them. Clean the heating base with a slightly damp cloth; never immerse it in water.
Take extra care when using hot oil. Keep children at a safe distance and never move the appliance when it’s full. Unplug it before taking it apart or cleaning it.
Around 1,800 to 2,000 watts is practical for a fondue and grill combination. An electric fondue pot rated at 1950 watts provides enough power for a 2-litre pot and a grill plate, but a good thermostat and correct filling level are important, too.
It depends on the model. Check whether the pot and grill plate are specifically listed as dishwasher-safe. The electric base, plug and cord must never go in the dishwasher or be submerged in water.
Energy use depends on the wattage, heating time and temperature setting. You can estimate it with this formula: power in kilowatts × usage time in hours × your electricity tariff. An appliance rated at 1,950 watts and running continuously at full power for one hour would theoretically use 1.95 kWh; in practice, a thermostat often switches on and off.