What could be better than cuddling up under the kotatsu with loved ones and sharing a meal? Hotpot, called ‘nabe’, is a great way to warm up and socialize in Japan. Let’s talk about hotpot!
First, every hot pot has a base. I’ll show you some base types that can commonly be found at the grocery.
Hotpot Recommendations
I often use the brand called “Mizkan”
The first flavor I want to talk about is Kimchi ! The Kimchi soup base has a mild spicy flavor.
I like to use it with beef and other hearty vegetables such as carrots and potatoes. Lettuce pairs well in this stock. Of course, leeks, tofu, and green onions are good in any hot pot, so they work well for the kimchi stock too!
The next flavor on the list is a rich pork broth.
It has a deep, smoky, and rich flavor. Some good options for pork broth hot pot is carrots, green onions, mushrooms, and spinach.
Finally, this is one of the most popular types. Soy sauce broth!
Soy sauce broth has a rich and bold flavor. It is a little salty. I like to add noodles in addition to the usual green onions, leeks, mushrooms, and spinach. The starch from the noodles helps cut through the saltiness.
Those are just three of the many types of hot pot broths found in Japan! Try some yourself! Hot pot is a playful dish, and in Japan, we add ingredients according to our tastes!
How unique will you make your hotpot?
