SERVES 4

Fondue is the most famous dish from the Savoie region in the French Alps. We can thank them for this hearty, cheesy dish with just a hint of cherry liqueur.

1⁄2 cup dried wild mushrooms, chopped
1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed
1 1⁄2 cups Savoyard white wine, or other light, dry
   white wine
1 lb. beaufort or gruyère cheese, grated or cubed
1 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg
Freshly ground black pepper
3⁄4 cup kirsch
8 slices French country bread, cut into 1" cubes, each 
   one with a piece of crust

1. Reconstitute the mushrooms in 1⁄2 cup of the kirsch for 30 minutes. Set aside.

2. Rub a medium heavy pot with garlic; discard garlic. Add wine and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and gradually add cheese, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until cheese has melted. Do not boil. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until mixture has thickened, about 20 minutes. Add nutmeg, pepper to taste, and remaining 1⁄4 cup kirsch. Add mushroom mixture. Transfer fondue to a chafing dish or fondue pot.

3. Serve with bread cubes and fondue forks. Stir frequently. If fondue becomes too thick, stir in 1⁄4 cup of dry white wine.