is a classic Chinese communal dish perfect for cold weather or family gatherings. Thinly sliced beef is cooked in a rich, aromatic broth alongside vegetables, tofu, and noodles, then dipped in flavorful sauces.

Hotpot is interactive, social, and highly customizable, allowing everyone at the table to cook ingredients to their preferred doneness.

📝 Recipe Information

⏱ Prep Time: 25 minutes

🔥 Cook Time: 20–30 minutes (broth preparation)

🍽 Servings: 4–6

🥡 Cuisine: Chinese

🧂 Ingredients

For the Broth:

Beef bones or beef shank — 500 g

Water — 6 cups

Ginger — 4 slices

Garlic — 4 cloves

Green onions — 2 stalks

Star anise — 2

Light soy sauce — 2 tbsp

Salt — to taste

Main Ingredients:

Thinly sliced beef — 400 g

Napa cabbage — 2 cups

Spinach — 1 cup

Tofu — 200 g (firm, cut into cubes)

Mushrooms — 1 cup (shiitake or enoki)

Rice noodles or vermicelli — 1 cup

Dipping Sauce (optional):

Sesame paste — 2 tbsp

Soy sauce — 1 tbsp

Rice vinegar — 1 tsp

Chili oil — ½ tsp

Garlic — 1 clove (minced)

🥢 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Rinse beef bones and place them in a large pot with water.

Bring to a boil for 5 minutes, then drain and rinse bones to remove impurities.

Refill pot with fresh water and add beef bones, ginger, garlic, green onions, and star anise.

Simmer on low heat for 30–40 minutes to develop a rich flavor.

Season with soy sauce and salt.

👉 Straining the broth before serving creates a clean, clear base.

Step 2: Prepare Ingredients

Slice beef very thinly; freezing slightly makes slicing easier.

Wash and chop vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms.

Arrange ingredients on serving plates for easy access.

Step 3: Set Up the Hotpot

Transfer broth to a portable hotpot or induction pot at the dining table.

Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook Ingredients

Using chopsticks or a slotted spoon, cook thin beef slices in the hot broth for 10–20 seconds until just tender.

Add vegetables, tofu, and noodles to cook until desired tenderness.

Adjust cooking time depending on thickness and preference.

Step 5: Prepare Dipping Sauce

Mix sesame paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, and minced garlic in small bowls.

Customize with scallions, cilantro, or chili flakes.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Serve immediately while the broth is simmering for an interactive meal.

Encourage diners to dip cooked beef and vegetables in their preferred sauces.

Leftover broth can be enjoyed as a flavorful soup at the end of the meal.

🌿 Pro Tips for Perfect Beef Hotpot

Slice beef ultra-thin for quick, tender cooking.

Keep the broth simmering gently — high heat may overcook delicate ingredients.

Offer a variety of vegetables and mushrooms for diverse textures.

Have sauces ready so everyone can customize flavor.

🧡 Why You’ll Love This Dish

Interactive, fun, and social dining experience

Healthy and balanced with protein, vegetables, and noodles

Rich, aromatic broth packed with flavor

Perfect for family gatherings or cold-weather comfort

✨ Beef Hotpot is a warming, communal Chinese meal that combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich broth. Its versatility and interactive nature make it a beloved dish for both everyday dinners and special occasions.