Make Entertaining Easy With A Hot Pot Soup Base

By Georgia Diaz


Entertaining is something that most of us look forward to regularly but let's face it, it usually becomes quite an expensive undertaking, especially if a large crowd is involved. Cooking up a hot pot soup base and serving with an array of finishes is a fun, exciting and inexpensive way to entertain.

The hot pot originated in Mongolia thousands of years ago and was eventually adopted popularly by the Chinese. It involves a large metal pot which is set center stage in the middle of the table with a simmering stock in it. Various ingredients are then added at the table to complete the stew or broth. A variety of ingredients can be introduced to create the results desired and the possibilities are endless.

The stock which is the base of this dish needs to be very flavorful and well executed for the end result to taste great. For those who are experts in the kitchen it is recommended to make a stock from scratch using bones, vegetables and spices. This is often a lengthy process and for those who find this a bit daunting, purchasing stock at the local supermarket is fine. The quality, as mentioned, is of utmost importance so be sure to buy a reputable brand.

Making a beef or veal stock from scratch starts with obtaining veal or beef bones from the local butcher. They are very inexpensive and are readily available. The bones are then roasted to melt away any fat that can make the stock cloudy and to caramelize the bones for a richer flavor. These roasted bones are then added to a large stockpot along with tomato paste and a mire poix.

The ingredients that are added at the table very often determine the end result of the dish. The bit of theater that this adds to the dining process is also much applauded. A variety of shapes, colors and textures can decoratively be laid out at the table, anticipating the end process. This also adds a presentation element to a dish that would normally be presented quiet plainly.

Finishing the broth is done with adding an array of thinly sliced ingredients to the simmering stock. These ingredients can be homely and inexpensive, such as an array of beans and pulses. It can also be luxury, with lobster and crab being added to a seafood broth. The beauty lies exactly in this, the host can determine the feel of the meal when considering budget restrictions.

The produce added at the end often determines the end result and this can be done with a certain cuisine in mind. If adding dried mushrooms, soy sauce and bonito flakes the meal can have a decidedly Japanese feel. If adding lime juice, galangal and fish sauce the feel will lend itself more to Thai. The theme can even be incorporated into the decor and costumes for the evening, creating a fun atmosphere.

A hot pot soup base is a fantastic way to entertain. The results are homely yet an air of theater is still added to excite guests. Paired with a local wine or Chinese sake it makes a fun night of entertaining for everyone.




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