How to Make Hot Pot Soup Base| Spicy Soup + Plain Soup

dried red chilies

🥗Healthier: fresh chili peppers

💰Cheaper: cayenne pepper

Fresh chili peppers can provide a similar heat level, while cayenne is more cost-effective.

Sichuan peppercorns

🥗Healthier: black pepper

💰Cheaper: regular peppercorns

Black pepper offers a different flavor profile but is more widely available.

sesame oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Olive oil can provide a healthier fat option, while vegetable oil is more economical.

chicken stock

🥗Healthier: vegetable stock

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable stock is a healthier alternative, while water with seasoning is a cost-effective option.

Add 1 pound of pork ribs and 3 pounds of beef bones to a pot.

Add 8 to 10 cups of water and bring to a boil.

Remove the bones to eliminate extra blood and impurities.

Slice spring onion and a large piece of ginger, then add them to the pot with the bones.

Cover and let simmer for 2 hours.

Prepare the spicy side by soaking dry spices in Shaoxing wine.

Add 3/4 cup chili paste to a pan and stir well, frying slowly for 4 to 5 minutes.

Add drained spices and stir for 2 to 3 minutes.

Add Sichuan doubanjiang and stir fry for another 5 minutes.

Add salted black beans, rock sugar, and Chinese fermented glutinous rice, then turn off the heat.

Combine the spicy hot pot base and the creamy stock in the hot pot, adding toppings like dried mushrooms, Goji berries, and Jujube fruits.

Equipment Needed