Tomato hotpot is a popular variation of Chinese hotpot known for its refreshing, slightly sweet and sour broth. Unlike spicy Sichuan-style hotpot, this version is gentle, making it perfect for all ages and ideal for long, cozy meals.

ðŸĨĒ Ingredients

ðŸē For Tomato Broth:

4 large ripe tomatoes (chopped)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp oil
4–5 slices ginger
2 cloves garlic (crushed)
2 spring onions (cut into sections)
1–1.5 liters chicken or vegetable stock
1 tbsp sugar
Salt to taste
1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)

ðŸĨĐ Hotpot Add-ins (choose as you like):

Thinly sliced beef or lamb
Chicken slices
Fish fillets or shrimp
Tofu (soft or firm)
Mushrooms (shiitake, enoki, button)
Napa cabbageSpinach or bok choy
Glass noodles or wheat noodles

ðŸĨĢ Dipping Sauce:

Soy sauce
Sesame oil
Minced garlic
Chopped coriander
Chili oil (optional)

ðŸ”Ĩ Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomato Base

Heat oil in a pot.
Add ginger, garlic, and spring onions. Stir until fragrant.
Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy (about 5–7 minutes).
Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.

2. Make the Broth

Pour in stock and bring to a boil.
Add sugar, salt, and soy sauce.
Simmer for 10–15 minutes until flavors blend into a rich, tangy broth.

3. Set Up the Hotpot

Transfer broth to a hotpot cooker or keep on low flame at the table.
Arrange all raw ingredients on plates.

4. Cooking & Eating

Add ingredients gradually into the boiling broth.
Cook meats for a few seconds to minutes depending on thickness.
Vegetables and tofu take slightly longer.
Dip cooked food into your sauce and enjoy!

ðŸ’Ą Tips for Perfect Tomato Hotpot

Use very ripe tomatoes for natural sweetness.
Add a few goji berries for a subtle Chinese touch.
You can crack an egg into the broth at the end for extra richness.
Adjust sourness by adding a splash of vinegar if needed.

🌟 Why You'll Love It

Light yet flavorful
Healthy and low in oil
Perfect alternative to spicy hotpot
Great for family-style dining