cooking mandarin duck hot pot

How to Make a Split Hotpot: A Guide to Yuanyang Hotpot

Yuanyang hotpot, named after the Mandarin duck (Yuanyang) symbolizing harmony, is a famous Chinese dish featuring two broths in one pot—typically spicy and clear—catering to diverse tastes. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

Step 1: Prepare the Broths

Divide the pot into two halves. For the spicy broth, heat 3 tbsp oil in a pan, stir-fry 20 dried chilies, 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns, and 2 sliced ginger until fragrant. Add 1 bottle of chicken broth, 2 tbsp fermented bean paste, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp sugar. Simmer for 15 minutes. For the clear broth, use 2 cups chicken broth, 1 sliced mushroom, 1 piece dried kelp, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 2: Prepare Ingredients

Slice 200g beef, 300g tofu, and assorted vegetables (cabbage, mushrooms, lettuce). Blanch meat and tofu in boiling water briefly. Arrange neatly on a platter.

Step 3: Cook and Serve

Pour the two broths into their respective sides of the split pot. Bring to a boil over a stove. Diners can cook ingredients in either broth, dipping in mixed sauces (soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic). The spicy side adds excitement, while the clear broth balances the heat, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

Enjoy this interactive and flavorful meal that brings everyone together!