Sichuan hotpot

Types of Sichuan hotpot

The primary characteristic of a Sichuan hotpot is the spicy flavor. However, there are different types of hotpot to choose from, with varying spices and broths.

• Chuan Chuan

  Chuan Chuan hotpot is frequently confused with Sichuan hotpot because of the name. It consists of skewered food that is dipped into the hotpot. Vendors usually sell the food on skewers and diners cook them in a spicy or non-spicy broth.

• Mushroom hotpot

  As the name suggests, this type of hotpot focuses on mushrooms. Different kinds of mushrooms are usually added to the broth, ranging from enoki to shiitake. They are also added to the spicy or non-spicy broth. While there are meat and vegetable options, mushroom hotpot generally caters to those who are vegetarian or vegan.

• Shabu-shabu

  Shabu-shabu is a popular dish in Japan and some parts of China. It is often confused with Sichuan hotpot because they are both cooked at the dining table. However, shabu-shabu uses a lighter broth than the Sichuan hoptpot. Additionally, shabu-shabu places a greater emphasis on dipping sauces.

• Buddha jumping over the wall hotpot

  This expensive hotpot is known as the “Buddha jumping over the wall” because it is so fragrant that it makes the Buddha jump over the wall to see what is going on. It originates from Fuzhou and consists of numerous ingredients, such as shark fin, abalone, sea cucumber, chicken, and more. The dish is steeped in folklore.

• Family hotpot

  Also known as “home-style hotpot,” this type of hotpot can be found in many families. It is inexpensive and offers a simple, basic, spicy broth. It is ideal for families who want to eat together without spending a lot of money. Although it is not as flavorful or rich in ingredients as other types, it still gets the job done.

• Seafood hotpot

  As the name suggests, this type of hotpot focuses primarily on seafood, with the option to add various sauces and condiments.

• Vegetable hotpot

  Vegetable hotpot is perfect for those who do not consume meat. It focuses primarily on vegetables and fruit.

Design of Sichuan hotpot

• Hotpot Stove

  Usually, there are two types of hotpot stoves: electric or gas. The electric stove is an electric hotpot suitable for home use. It has multiple gears to adjust the heat. The gas stove is for restaurants. It often comes with a large gas cylinder for customers to use.

  Some specialized restaurants use alcohol stoves or charcoal stoves to give an authentic experience.

• Hotpot Base

  The base is usually a bowl or pot-like structure. It has a large circumference and is often made of stainless steel. Some pots have two sides for different soup bases. The base is placed in the middle of the table and filled with boiling broth before serving.

• Table

  The table should be large enough to hold all the necessary ingredients. It should also have enough room to move things around. Most tables in hotpot restaurants allow people to rotate 360 degrees. Some tables even have a built-in heating function to keep the food warm.

• Dipping Sauce Trolley/Stand

  Many Sichuan hotpot restaurants have a stand or trolley for dipping sauces. These are usually placed at the table's edge. The trolley has various sauces and condiments, while the stand has empty bowls for customers to mix and sample their creations.

• Condiment and Ingredient Tray

  There are two designs for this tray: a revolving tray or a tray with compartments. The first design allows users to rotate the tray to get what they want. The second design allows users to organize and segregate different ingredients. It usually comes with labels for easy identification.

• Seating

  Since hotpot is a communal activity, seating is crucial. The seats should be comfortable enough to sit in for long periods. Many restaurants use swivel chairs or benches that can accommodate many people at once.

• Ventilation System

  Hotpot, especially the Sichuan kind, is centered around spice. A good ventilation system ensures that the air does not become too thick with the smell of the spices. It also helps keep the temperature comfortable for diners.

• Dishware

  Each table should have the necessary dishware, including bowls and chopsticks. Some restaurants even provide disposable gloves for diners to wear while handling raw meat.

• Storage

  Storage is essential in the design of a hotpot restaurant. It ensures that the space remains clean and organized. There should be hidden cupboards for storing extra condiments and supplies. There should also be racks for hanging used and clean dishware.

Scenarios of Sichuan hotpot

• Family gatherings:

  Sichuan hotpot is an ideal dish for family gatherings. It can accommodate large numbers of people, from 3 to 20, and everyone can eat according to their preferences. Moreover, since family gatherings usually last for a long time, the spicy and numbing sensation of Sichuan hotpot can intensify as the meal progresses, making it a perfect choice for a prolonged gathering.

• Birthday parties:

  Similarly, Sichuan hotpot works well for birthday parties too. In fact, some hotpot restaurants even offer special packages for birthday guests, such as free meals or discounts. This not only makes the birthday person feel special but also adds an extra layer of fun and excitement to the celebration. The interactive and communal aspect of hotpot also creates a lively and festive atmosphere, perfect for celebrating another year of life.

• Business banquets:

  Sichuan hotpot is also a popular choice for business banquets. Firstly, it is a way to show appreciation for business partners or clients by treating them to a delicious meal. Secondly, it helps to build rapport and strengthen relationships in a relaxed and informal setting. Moreover, the customizable nature of hotpot allows hosts to cater to the specific tastes and dietary restrictions of their guests, leaving a positive impression and potentially paving the way for future collaborations.

• Celebrations or condolence gatherings:

  Hotpot can be used for both happy and sad occasions, such as weddings or funerals. In Chinese culture, food is an important part of every event, and hotpot is a way to bring people together, whether to celebrate a new union or to comfort each other during a time of loss. It provides a sense of normalcy and comfort during difficult times, while also allowing people to express their emotions in their own way.

• Outdoor activities or camping:

  In recent years, there has been a growing trend of enjoying hotpot outdoors or while camping. This is partly due to the convenience and portability of many hotpot ingredients, as well as the desire to get closer to nature and enjoy some fresh air. Whether it be a picnic in the park or a camping trip in the mountains, bringing along a portable hotpot and some pre-marinated meats and vegetables can make for a fun and delicious outdoor dining experience.

How to choose a Sichuan hotpot

When choosing a sichuan hotpot, there are some considerations to keep in mind.

• Type of hotpot

  There are two main types of sichuan hotpots: the oil-based and the water-based. The former uses an oil-based broth while the latter relies more on water. Choose one according to personal preferences.

• Size and capacity

  Choose a sichuan hotpot that will be big enough for everyone if there are many people eating together at once. For small gatherings, a smaller-sized hotpot would suffice.

• Material

  Look for durable materials that can retain heat well, such as stainless steel or cast iron. Make sure they are also easy to clean after use.

• Heat source

  Determine what type of heat source is required for the sichuan hotpot, be it gas, electric or induction. Make sure it is compatible with the hotpot being purchased.

• Spiciness level

  Decide how spicy the broth should be. There are different levels of spiciness in sichuan hotpots, so choose one that suits everyone's taste buds best.

• Broth options

  Some sichuan hotpots come with pre-made broths or concentrate sachets, while others only provide the base. Check if there are any specific broth options available to suit personal preferences.

• Additional features

  Look out for any extra features like built-in burners, adjustable temperature settings or even multiple compartments for different kinds of broth.

Q&A

Q1. What are the differences between Sichuan and Cantonese hotpots?

A1. Cantonese hotpot focuses on fresh ingredients and a light broth, while Sichuan hotpot is about a spicy, numbing broth.

Q2. Can people who don't eat meat enjoy Sichuan hotpots?

A2. Yes! There are many vegetarian and vegan options available, like mushrooms, tofu, and vegetables.

Q3. How can one tell the spiciness level of a Sichuan hotpot before trying it?

A3. Ask the restaurant staff about their spice levels; they usually have a scale or can suggest a mild one for beginners.

Q4. What are the typical dipping sauces for Sichuan hotpot?

A4. Common dipping sauces include sesame paste, soy sauce, garlic, and chili oil, which can be customized to taste.

Q5. How long does it take to cook food in a Sichuan hotpot?

A5. Cooking times vary depending on the ingredient; thinly sliced meat takes only seconds, while mushrooms or dumplings may take a minute or two longer.