Sichuan hotpot, also known as Sichuan hot pot or Szechuan hotpot, is a famous Chinese dish known for its bold, spicy flavors, which typically include a combination of Sichuan pepper, chili peppers, and various other seasonings. It's a communal dish where ingredients are cooked in a flavorful, spicy broth at the dining table.
Here's a basic recipe to make a Sichuan hotpot at home:
Ingredients
For the Broth:
- 2 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4-6 dried chili peppers (adjust to taste)
- 2 slices of ginger
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 star anise
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt to taste
Dipping Ingredients (as per preference):
- Thinly sliced beef or lamb
- Fish fillets
- Shrimp
- Tofu
- Mushrooms
- Leafy greens (like bok choy or spinach)
- Noodles
- Potatoes
For the Dipping Sauce:
- Sesame oil
- Soy sauce
- Minced garlic
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame paste
- Chili oil (optional for extra heat)
Instructions
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Prepare the Broth: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Sichuan peppercorns and dried chilies. Stir-fry until fragrant. Add ginger and garlic, and continue to stir-fry for another minute.
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Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add star anise, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, sugar, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Strain the broth and return it to the pot. Season with salt to taste.
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Prepare Dipping Ingredients: While the broth is simmering, prepare your chosen ingredients by slicing meat thinly and chopping vegetables.
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Make Dipping Sauce: Combine sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, green onions, sesame paste, and chili oil in small bowls. Each diner can customize their own dipping sauce according to their taste.
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Cook and Enjoy: Place the pot of broth on a portable burner at the dining table. Diners can add their chosen ingredients into the pot and cook them to their desired doneness. Enjoy the cooked food by dipping into the prepared sauce.
Remember, the key to a great Sichuan hotpot is in the broth, so feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings to match your taste preferences. Enjoy your meal!
