Hot pot is one of the most enjoyable, customizable dining experiences you can have. The magic lies in choosing the right broth, pairing it with premium meats, adding fresh vegetables, and finishing with the perfect noodles. Whether you’re a beginner or a hot pot lover, knowing what to pick makes the meal richer, tastier, and more satisfying.
Top 8 Hot Pot Soup Bases
1. Thai Tom Yum
If you love spicy, tangy, and aromatic flavors, Tom Yum is an absolute must. This Thai-inspired broth combines lemongrass, lime juice, garlic, galangal, and chili peppers for a zesty kick that wakes up your taste buds.
Pairs Best With: Shrimp, seafood, chicken, mushrooms
2. Szechuan Spicy
This fiery broth is loaded with Szechuan peppercorns, chili oil, garlic, and dried peppers. It delivers intense heat with a signature numbing sensation (málà) that makes every bite unforgettable.
Pairs Best With: Beef, lamb, tofu, noodles
3. Korean Seafood
A savory broth with anchovy stock, gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), and garlic. It has the perfect balance of spice and umami richness that complements seafood beautifully.
Pairs Best With: Clams, shrimp, squid, mussels, tofu
4. Japanese Miso
Smooth, savory, and comforting, miso broth brings deep umami flavor from fermented soybean paste, dashi stock, and seaweed. It’s mild yet packed with flavor.
Pairs Best With: Tofu, mushrooms, udon noodles, chicken, seafood
5. Mushroom
For vegetarians or anyone who loves earthy flavors, the mushroom broth is creamy, rich, and loaded with umami. It’s made with shiitake, enoki, and oyster mushrooms simmered for hours.
Pairs Best With: All vegetables, tofu, glass noodles, dumplings
6. Tomato
Tangy, slightly sweet, and refreshing, tomato broth is perfect for a lighter hot pot experience. It’s made with fresh tomatoes, cilantro, onion, and a hint of garlic.
Pairs Best With: Beef, seafood, rice cakes, corn
7. Healthy Herbs
This traditional Chinese broth uses a blend of medicinal herbs like goji berries, red dates, and ginseng. It’s nourishing, slightly sweet, and believed to boost immunity and energy.
Pairs Best With: Chicken, pork, vegetables, mushrooms
8. Original (Pork Bone)
The most classic hot pot base, Original broth is made from slow-cooked pork bones, cabbage, garlic, and scallions. It’s clean, savory, and lets the ingredients shine without overpowering them.
Pairs Best With: Any meat, seafood, or vegetables
Best Meats for Hot Pot
A5 Wagyu Ribeye
The ultimate luxury meat. Wagyu beef is known for its intense marbling, buttery texture, and melt-in-your-mouth quality. Just a few seconds in the broth is all it takes.
U.S. Wagyu
A more affordable alternative to Japanese A5, U.S. Wagyu still delivers incredible marbling and flavor. Perfect for those who want premium beef without breaking the bank.
Fresh Frozen Live Shrimp
Fresh shrimp adds a sweet, juicy bite to any broth. Cook for 1-2 minutes until they turn pink. Pair with Tom Yum or Korean Seafood broth for the best flavor.
Frog Legs
If you’re adventurous, frog legs are a must-try. They have a tender texture similar to chicken and absorb the broth’s flavors beautifully. Popular in spicy Szechuan and herbal broths.
Best Vegetables & Sides
- Napa Cabbage: Soaks up broth beautifully
- Mushrooms (Enoki, Shiitake, Oyster): Add earthy umami flavor
- Bok Choy: Crunchy and refreshing
- Tofu (Soft or Fried): Absorbs flavor like a sponge
- Glass Noodles: Silky and satisfying
- Corn & Potatoes: Sweet and hearty
Pro Tips for the Best Hot Pot Experience
- Start with vegetables and mushrooms to build the broth’s flavor
- Cook meats quickly – thin slices need only 10-30 seconds
- Don’t overcrowd the pot – cook in small batches for even cooking
- Save noodles for last to soak up all the accumulated flavors
- Try different sauce combinations for dipping
Conclusion
Hot pot is all about customization and discovery. Whether you prefer the numbing heat of Szechuan, the umami richness of miso, or the tang of Tom Yum, there’s a perfect combination waiting for you. Don’t be afraid to mix and match broths, premium seafood, and vegetables to create your ideal meal.
Ready to experience the ultimate hot pot feast? Visit Shinhwa Korean Steakhouse in Roseville, MN or Chicago, IL and explore our premium AYCE hot pot menu with 8 signature broths, Wagyu beef, fresh seafood, and unlimited sides!
