What is Hot Pot? A Complete Guide to DIY Hotpot at Home

Hot pot, also known as steamboat, is one of the most enjoyable and interactive meals you can prepare at home. But what is hot pot exactly? At its core, hot pot is a simmering pot of flavorful broth placed at the center of the table, where you cook fresh ingredients like meat, vegetables, noodles, and tofu together. It’s not just about eating; it’s an experience—fun, social, and perfect for cold weather.

What is Hot Pot?

Hot pot is a traditional Asian dining style that combines cooking and eating at the same time. Guests sit around a pot of boiling soup, dipping raw ingredients into the broth until they’re cooked. Once ready, the food is paired with dipping sauces for extra flavor.

Why It’s Called Hot Pot or Steamboat

Depending on where you are, people call it either “hot pot” or “steamboat.” Both terms describe the same dish—freshly cooked ingredients in a communal pot of soup.

Essential Hot Pot Ingredients

When it comes to hot pot, variety is everything. Here are the essentials you need to get started:

Meats

Thinly sliced beef, fatty pork, and ox tongue are classics.

Seafood

Fish balls, shrimp, and even homemade fish paste.

Vegetables

Chinese cabbage, watercress, lettuce, radish, corn, and mushrooms (enoki mushrooms are a favorite).

Tofu

Fresh tofu and fried tofu absorb the broth beautifully.

Noodles

Udon, vermicelli, and glass noodles add texture and make the meal filling.

Soup Base

You can make your own, or buy ready-made packets in flavors like chicken, mushroom, seafood, or spicy Sichuan.

Sauces for Hot Pot

No hot pot is complete without dipping sauces. Popular choices include:

• Soy sauce with garlic and spring onions
• Sesame oil for nutty richness
• Chili garlic paste for spice
• Satay sauce for a bold, smoky flavor

How to Enjoy Hot Pot at Home

Cooking hot pot at home is simple but does require some rules:

• Two Chopsticks Rule: Use one pair for raw food and another for eating cooked food.
• Cook Small Batches: Add a few ingredients at a time so nothing gets overcooked.
• Order of Cooking: Start with meatballs and seafood, then add thin slices of meat, and finally vegetables and noodles to soak up the broth.
• End with Noodles or Rice: They absorb the soup’s flavors, making the perfect finale.

Is Hot Pot Healthy?

Yes—hot pot can be a very healthy meal if you choose lean meats, fresh vegetables, and light soup bases. Since you’re boiling instead of frying, it’s naturally lower in fat. Plus, the communal style encourages slower eating, which is great for digestion.

Final Thoughts

So, what is hot pot? It’s more than just food—it’s an experience that brings people together around a steaming pot of broth, cooking and sharing delicious flavors. Whether you’re trying DIY hotpot at home for the first time or you’re a seasoned fan, it’s one of the most fun, customizable, and warming meals you can enjoy year-round.