Page 143 - South Mississippi Living - December, 2024

inspired him to become a chef. He trained in culinary institutes, apprenticed, and after many years traveling the world and working in all aspects of the restaurant and hotel professions, became an executive chef in Scottsdale, Arizona. “When I was growing up in Switzerland, the cold weather would come, and fondue was the way we celebrated as a family. It was a slower meal and our times together were very precious,” Claude says.
His family’s recipe has changed very little over the years. Garlic is smeared on the inside of the fondue pot, grated Gruyere or a nice Swiss Vacherin cheese is added, along with some white wine. After simmering over low heat Kirsch, a Swiss cherry flavored liqueur, is added. Some cornstarch thickens the mixture, and a pinch of baking soda helps digest the cheese.
Bread is baked for dragging through the luscious cheese dip and since his wife, Katherine, likes to eat healthier these days, al dente prepared broccoli and Brussels sprouts have been added to the menu. Wine and hot tea accompany the meal but Claude shares that “Midway through the meal, we have a pewter shot glass filled with apricot or pear liqueur,
just to help with digestion, of course!” For dessert pineapples and other fresh fruits are served.
Skiing stories are the Nicolet’s favorites to share around the fondue pot. Immigrating to the mountains of Arizona gave Claude the opportunity to share his lifelong love of skiing with his sons. Chris and Tim are grown now with families
of their own, but the Nicolet family continues to ski together when they can, and fondue is still the center of family gatherings. Here in South Mississippi, we may not have snow skiing stories to share, but we can purchase a fondue pot and maybe tell a fishing story or two.
Whether its stories, presents, or coins
in a kettle, giving to others is a cherished tradition during the holidays. There is no shortage of ways to give to those in need this year. Let us be thankful for the roofs over our heads and responsive to those without a home. But give yourself a gift too. Be more present with your family. Take a deep breath and watch for the quiet moments of peace, the boisterous moments of joy, and the flavorful moments of a meal where we savor the richness of love. Happy Holidays to you and yours.
The Nicolet Family enjoying cheese fondue.
Holly Harrison has been a licensed interior de- signer for over 35 years. Shannon Stage has spent nearly 20 years in the giftware industry. Together
they own Sassy Bird Interiors in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.
Sassy Bird Interiors
211 Main St., Bay St. Louis 228.344.3181 | www.sassybirdinteriors.com
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
December 2024 | 143