Cheddar, Onion, Apple & Hard Cider Fondue

Ingredients:

• 1-1/2 pounds shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
• 2-1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 ounce chopped shallot
• 1/2 cup finely diced tart apple
• 2-1/2 cups hard cider
• Cubes of crusty bread
• Apple wedges (toss in lemon juice to prevent from turning brown)

Directions:

1. Place the shredded cheese in a large bowl and sprinkle with the cornstarch and dry mustard; toss to coat.
2. Heat the butter in the Fondue Pot.
3. Cook the shallot and apple in the butter until tender and golden.
4. Add 2 cups of the hard cider and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat (if possible), and with the cider simmering, gradually add the shredded cheese, a handful at a time, while whisking with a plastic or coated whisk.
6. If mixture seems too thick, whisk more of the reserved cider as needed.
7. Serve with crusty bread or wedges of tart apple.