Dive into the warm, communal charm of **Traditional Chinese Hot Pot**, where a rich, aromatic broth serves as the centerpiece for an unforgettable dining experience. Simmered to perfection with the flavors of garlic, ginger, star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, and dried chili peppers, this broth sets the stage for endless customization. Surround it with thinly sliced beef or lamb, succulent shrimp, silky tofu, vibrant vegetables like bok choy and napa cabbage, and springy rice noodles. Perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions, each guest can cook their favorite ingredients right at the table, creating a hands-on feast thatβs as interactive as it is delicious. Garnish with fresh cilantro, scallions, and a drizzle of sesame oil for a burst of brightness and indulge in the depth of flavors that make this dish a staple in Chinese cuisine. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply exploring global flavors, this recipe delivers authentic hot pot magic.
Begin by making the broth. In a large pot, bring 8 cups of chicken or vegetable stock to a simmer over medium heat.
Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 inches of sliced ginger, 2 pieces of star anise, 1 tablespoon of Sichuan peppercorns, and 4 dried chili peppers to the pot. Let the broth simmer for about 30 minutes to develop flavors.
While the broth is simmering, prepare the ingredients for the hot pot. Thinly slice 1 pound of beef or lamb. Peel and devein 0.5 pounds of shrimp. Cube 14 ounces of tofu.
Clean and slice 8 shiitake mushrooms. Separate 2 bunches of bok choy leaves and wash them thoroughly. Trim 200 grams of enoki mushrooms. Chop 1 small head of napa cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
Soak 8 ounces of rice noodles in warm water for 15 minutes, then drain.
Once the broth has simmered for 30 minutes, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve into a separate pot to remove solids, then return the strained broth back to the heat.
To serve, place the simmering broth pot in the center of the table on a portable burner. Arrange all the hot pot ingredients β meats, seafood, vegetables, tofu, and noodles around the pot.
Allow each guest to cook their desired ingredients in the simmering broth, adjusting cooking times based on the ingredients used. Meats and shrimp will typically cook within a few minutes, while vegetables and tofu take slightly longer.
Serve with chopped scallions, cilantro, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil for drizzling over cooked items.
Enjoy the hands-on experience by dipping cooked ingredients into your choice of dipping sauces and savor the communal nature of this traditional meal.
Calories |
2816 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 148.9 g | 191% | |
| Saturated Fat | 45.0 g | 225% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 760 mg | 253% | |
| Sodium | 9611 mg | 418% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 145.2 g | 53% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 38.9 g | 139% | |
| Total Sugars | 22.8 g | ||
| Protein | 254.9 g | 510% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 2716 mg | 209% | |
| Iron | 52.6 mg | 292% | |
| Potassium | 7480 mg | 159% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.