Chongqing hot pot, also known as “Chongqing huoguo” (重庆火锅), is a famous and distinctive style of hot pot that originates from the city of Chongqing in southwestern China. It is renowned for its bold and spicy flavors, often incorporating the signature numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns.
Here are some key features of Chongqing hot pot:
Spicy and Numbing Broth: Chongqing hot pot is characterized by a rich and spicy broth that is often infused with a variety of aromatic spices, including Sichuan peppercorns, dried red chili peppers, garlic, and ginger. The result is a flavorful and numbing broth that forms the base for cooking the ingredients.
Red Chili Oil: The broth in Chongqing hot pot is usually visibly red due to the presence of chili oil. The addition of chili oil not only imparts heat to the broth but also enhances its overall flavor.
Diverse Ingredients: Similar to other hot pot styles, Chongqing hot pot offers a wide array of ingredients for diners to cook in the simmering broth. Common choices include thinly sliced meats (such as beef, lamb, and pork), various seafood, tofu, mushrooms, leafy greens, and noodles.
Dipping Sauces: Diners often prepare their own dipping sauces using a combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, cilantro, and other condiments. These sauces add an extra layer of flavor to the cooked ingredients.
Side Dishes: Chongqing hot pot is often accompanied by a selection of side dishes, such as pickled vegetables, fermented tofu, and peanuts, which provide additional textures and flavors.
Social Dining Experience: Similar to other hot pot traditions, Chongqing hot pot is a communal and social dining experience. Friends and family gather around the hot pot, sharing stories and cooking their preferred ingredients.
Chongqing hot pot has gained popularity not only in China but also internationally, thanks to its distinctive flavours and the global popularity of Sichuan cuisine. It is a favourite among spice enthusiasts and those who enjoy a lively and interactive dining experience.
Stay tuned as we are unveiling a home-cook recipe for preparing Chongqing Hot Pot 🙂