Monday, November 25, 2013

Entertaining On A Budget With Hot Pot Soup Base

By Georgia Diaz


A hot pot soup base is the new trendy way to entertain and with the uncomplicated preparation and little equipment needed, it is no wonder. The meal is prepared in one pot, making for very little cleaning up, and it is of course the ultimate in comfort food, perfect for a cosy winter evening with friends and family.

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 base of the soup is very important as it sets the tone for the end result. For a good base stock the ingredients vary on the end results desired. If a meaty soup is desired then a veal or beef stock is recommended. Various ready made stocks are available for purchase at the supermarket but making it from scratch definitely gives superior results.

Very often when entertaining, one faces the problem of entertaining for a wide audience with vast dietary requirements. There are a variety of pots on the market now that have two separate compartments, allowing two broths to be made simultaneously. This means that one half can be vegetarian, with a variety of vegetables being added to the finished broth, while the other can be meat or seafood based.

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.

Different broths adapt well to different flavors and deciding what to add at the end is often quite challenging. Dishes that are reminiscent of Thai flavors may incorporate fish sauce, galangal or kaffir lime leaves. Chinese broths may be seasoned with soy sauce. A more homely version can include a variety of root vegetables, thinly sliced meat and some dried pulses perhaps.

Any ingredients can now be added to complete the dish and strengthen the flavors. Thinly sliced raw meat of seafood, vegetables sliced thinly and additional spices are common. Chilli flakes, garlic, ginger and soy sauce are common ingredients used to round off the finished product.

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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