Original Soup Base
A classic and flavorful broth, often considered a must-try for hot pot beginners. It's a savory and aromatic broth that complements a wide variety of ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) 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.
Hot pot's origins trace back over a thousand years in China, likely originating with nomadic groups in Northern China who used portable stoves and readily available ingredients to create communal meals. As it spread southward, regional variations arose, adapting to local ingredients and culinary preferences. The 'original soup base' is considered a foundational recipe, reflecting the core flavors of early hot pot preparations.
Hot pot, particularly with its original soup base, is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture as a symbol of togetherness, warmth, and communal dining. Sharing hot pot fosters a sense of connection and allows for individual preferences within a collective meal.
Family Gatherings
Hot pot is a staple at family gatherings, especially during Chinese New Year. The act of preparing and sharing the meal signifies unity and prosperity for the year ahead.
Communal Dining
Hot pot emphasizes communal dining, where everyone participates in cooking and sharing food from the same pot, promoting interaction and connection.
Symbolic Ingredients
Certain hot pot ingredients carry symbolic meanings. For example, dumplings (jiaozi) resemble ancient Chinese money and symbolize wealth, while noodles represent longevity.
The Original Soup Base is characterized by its savory, umami-rich, and slightly sweet flavor profile. It provides a balanced backdrop that enhances the taste of various ingredients cooked within it.
The broth typically features a base of pork or chicken bones, simmered for hours to extract maximum flavor and collagen. Aromatic ingredients such as ginger, scallions, and white peppercorns are added to create depth and complexity. Some recipes may also include dried shiitake mushrooms for umami or jujubes (red dates) for a subtle sweetness. The final flavor is clean, clear, and comforting, designed to highlight the freshness of the added ingredients.
Ingredient Selection
Choose a variety of fresh, high-quality ingredients that complement the broth's flavor. Consider thinly sliced meats (beef, lamb, pork), seafood (shrimp, fish balls), vegetables (napa cabbage, mushrooms, spinach), and tofu products.
Dipping Sauces
Prepare a selection of dipping sauces to complement the broth and ingredients. Popular options include soy sauce, sesame oil, chili oil, minced garlic, and green onions.
Broth Maintenance
Regularly skim off any foam or impurities that accumulate on the surface of the broth to maintain clarity and flavor. Replenish the broth as needed to prevent it from becoming too concentrated.
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