Chongqing mala hot pot

China · East Asia

Short description: This hot pot centers on a fiercely spicy, numbing broth where diners cook thin meats, vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms at the table.
Ingredients: Beef tallow or oil, dried chiles, peppercorns, aromatics, broth, sliced meats, tofu, mushrooms, and greens.
Cultural note: The divided pot and shared cooking rhythm turn the meal into a long social event as much as a dish.
Common misconception: The numbing effect comes from peppercorns, not simply from adding more chile heat.

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