Hot pot, also known as hotpot or steamboat, is a communal dining experience originating from China where a pot of simmering broth is placed at the center of the table. Diners cook a variety of raw ingredients such as thinly sliced meats, vegetables, mushrooms, seafood, tofu, and noodles by dipping them into the hot broth until cooked, then eating them with dipping sauces
. The broth is kept simmering throughout the meal, and different types of hot pot exist, including spicy Sichuan-style and milder herbal or plain broths. The meal is interactive and social, encouraging sharing and conversation as people cook and eat together. Hot pot is popular both at home and in restaurants, especially during colder seasons, but enjoyed year-round
. Key features of hot pot include:
- A large pot of flavorful broth simmering on a heat source at the table
- A variety of raw ingredients prepared and served around the pot
- Cooking food quickly in the broth and dipping it in sauces before eating
- A shared, social dining atmosphere fostering connection and enjoyment
Hot pot is sometimes described as Chinese fondue due to its interactive style, and it has a long history dating back to the Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC – 256 BC)
. It is considered a main course and typically served without rice or noodles on the side, as the cooked ingredients and broth form the meal itself
. In summary, hot pot is both a method of cooking and a social dining tradition centered on cooking raw ingredients in a communal pot of simmering broth at the table.
