Hot Pots: Understanding The Heat Distribution Of Your Cookware

Crockpots are designed to distribute heat evenly over the edges and bottom of the pot. The heating elements are installed at the edges and sides of the pot, so it's normal for the exterior to get hot. However, crockpots are not supposed to get so hot that they burn your hand. If you're concerned about the heat, you can use a cool-touch crockpot or slow cooker, or place the crockpot on a trivet or thermal pad to protect your countertops or tables.

Crock pots getting hot on the outside

It is normal for crock pots to get hot on the outside, and this is due to their design and structure. Crock pots are designed to distribute heat evenly over their edges and bottom. Heating elements are installed at the edges and sides of the crock pot, and when the temperature is set high, the exterior is affected. If the outer parts are made of metal, then the heat gets absorbed more.

Crock pots should not get so hot that they burn your hand, but they can get too hot to touch. If this is the case, you can use oven mitts or silicone mitts to handle the crock pot. It is also important to be careful about what you put near the crock pot, as the heat can melt or fuse certain materials, such as plastic. It is recommended to place the crock pot on a surface that can withstand extreme heat, such as a stovetop, heatproof tray, or wooden board.

If you are concerned about the crock pot getting too hot, you can consider purchasing a cool-touch crock pot or slow cooker. However, manufacturers may find it difficult to produce these for technical reasons. Another option is to use a water test to measure the temperature of your crock pot and ensure it is functioning normally. Fill the crock pot with 2/3 portion of water, set it to a low temperature for 5 hours, and then take the temperature—it should be around 180–200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Additionally, when using a crock pot, it is important to be mindful of safety precautions. Make sure to keep children and vulnerable adults away from the appliance and always handle it with care to avoid burns or injuries.

Chinese hot pot guide

Chinese hot pot, or Huo Guo (火锅), is a fun and interactive dining experience. It involves a pot of broth heated by a portable stove or burner in the centre of the table. Guests cook a variety of raw ingredients in the broth and eat them with a dipping sauce.

The Broth

Hot pot broth can be bought or made from scratch. The type of broth is one of the most important considerations when planning a hot pot as all the food will be cooked in it. It's best to choose a flavour that will please all your guests.

There are many different styles of hot pot in China, and they vary depending on the region. The primary difference is usually the broth.

The two most popular types of broth are spicy and clear. Spicy broth is the most common, with Sichuan, Chongqing, and Mongolian styles being the most popular. Sichuan broth is made with red chilli oil, Sichuan peppercorns, and various herbs. Chongqing broth is similar but made with beef fat and very few spices, resulting in a thicker, oilier, and spicier broth. Mongolian broth is also made with red chilli oil but is heavier on the cumin and less spicy.

Clear broth is the default type in northern China and is usually made with simple ingredients such as water, scallions, ginger, peppers, shiitake mushrooms, and jujubes.

Other types of broth include tomato, seafood, satay, and soy milk.

The Ingredients

Various raw ingredients are served on plates around the pot, and guests add them to the broth to cook. Common ingredients include:

• Thinly sliced meat such as lamb, beef, pork, and chicken
• Seafood such as shrimp, squid, scallops, and fish balls
• Tofu and soy bean products such as tofu puffs, tofu skin, and fermented tofu
• Vegetables such as napa cabbage, baby bok choy, Chinese broccoli, mushrooms, and corn on the cob
• Noodles and dumplings

The Dipping Sauce

There are many different sauces that can be used for hot pot. Here are some examples:

• Sesame paste-based sauce: made with toasted sesame paste, water, soy sauce, fermented tofu, garlic, cilantro, and green onions
• Shacha sauce: made from fish paste and various spices, perfect for seafood
• Toasted sesame oil and finely grated garlic

Hot Pot Etiquette

There are a few important rules to remember when cooking and eating hot pot:

• Be patient and wait until the broth is boiling before adding any ingredients
• Only add a small amount of food at a time so as not to overcrowd the pot and reduce the temperature of the broth
• Only cook the food you plan to eat
• Sanitize your chopsticks by dipping them in the boiling broth before picking up any cooked food

Preventing potted plants from overheating

Potted plants can easily overheat, especially if they get sun exposure during the day. Here are some tips to prevent your potted plants from overheating:

Choose the Right Container

The colour of the pot can make a significant difference in how warm the temperature gets inside the container. Studies have shown that black containers exhibit the greatest temperature difference, with the highest temperatures recorded at the centre. On the other hand, white or light-coloured containers keep plant roots cooler, with temperatures 5.9 to 13 °C lower than black containers. So, when choosing a pot, opt for white or light-coloured options.

Provide Shade

Keep potted plants shaded from the afternoon sun. Morning sun exposure is ideal, as the sun is less intense and the containers will not heat up as much. If possible, place potted plants under a porch or in full shade on exceptionally hot days. You can also cluster potted plants together and put taller plants on the sun-exposed side to provide shade for the others.

Water Correctly

Watering is essential to keep plants hydrated during hot weather, but it's important to water correctly. Water your plants in the morning or early evening, as watering during midday is inefficient and most of the water will evaporate before reaching the roots. Aim for deep watering two to three times a week. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot or fungal diseases.

Add Mulch

Applying a thick layer of mulch helps insulate the plant's roots from heat and cold. It also helps retain moisture in the soil. For gardens prone to extreme temperatures, aim for a mulch layer of at least 4-6 inches.

Use Plant Shade Covers

During the hottest part of the day, provide shade for your plants to prevent sunburn and wilting. You can use a patio umbrella, shade sails, garden fabric, or a bedsheet draped over a trellis. Ensure that the shade cover allows for air circulation around the plants.

Hot pot burners: butane vs. electric

When it comes to choosing a hot pot burner, there are several options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Two of the most popular options are butane and electric burners. Here is a detailed comparison between the two to help you decide which one is best for your needs.

Butane Burners

Butane burners, such as the popular Iwatani brand, offer several benefits. They are typically small, portable, and easy to use. Butane burners are ideal for hot pots as they can be placed in the centre of the table, creating a communal dining experience. The fuel canisters are readily available and affordable, making them a convenient choice. However, one safety concern with butane burners is the risk of overheating, which can pose a hazard. Additionally, the open flame may not be suitable for all environments, especially if proper ventilation is not available.

Electric Burners

Electric burners, on the other hand, offer a safe and modern alternative. They are easy to use and often feature temperature control settings, making them versatile for various cooking styles. Electric burners are also multi-purpose and can be used as an extra cooking zone in the kitchen. While they may be more expensive than butane burners, electric burners are generally more widely available and can be found in most appliance stores. They are also easier to clean and maintain, making them a convenient option for those who want a low-maintenance hot pot experience.

Both butane and electric burners have their advantages. Butane burners are portable, affordable, and perfect for creating a communal dining experience. However, they may pose safety risks if not used properly. Electric burners, on the other hand, offer temperature control, versatility, and safety. They are a reliable choice for those who want a convenient and easy-to-use hot pot experience. Ultimately, the decision between butane and electric burners depends on your personal preferences, budget, and specific needs.

Hot pot ingredients and prep

Hot pot is a fun and social meal, often eaten communally. The preparation is simple, and the ingredients are easy to source.

Broth

First, you'll need to decide on the broth. You can make your own, but it's also fine to buy a store-bought broth or seasoning packet. There are many types of broth, including spicy, herbal, curry, and plain.

Ingredients

Hot pot is all about variety, so it's best to have a range of ingredients. The key is to have a good balance of items from each category.

Meat

Meat is thinly sliced and added to the broth. You can buy pre-sliced meat, or slice it yourself. Beef, pork, and chicken are popular choices. Lamb and chicken are also options.

Seafood

Seafood is another common addition to hot pot. Shrimp, squid, scallops, and fish fillets are all good choices. You can also add seafood balls, which are usually pre-cooked.

Vegetables

Leafy greens are a popular choice for hot pot. You can use baby bok choy, spinach, or napa cabbage. Other vegetables include potatoes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, corn, and pumpkin.

Tofu

Tofu is a must-have for hot pot. It soaks up the flavors of the broth. You can use firm tofu, frozen tofu, or tofu puffs.

Dumplings and Balls

Frozen dumplings are a great addition to hot pot. You can also add various types of balls, such as fish balls, beef balls, or pork balls.

Noodles

Noodles are the carb of choice for hot pot. You can use mung bean vermicelli, rice noodles, fresh white noodles, or shirataki noodles.

Prep

The beauty of hot pot is that the prep is minimal. Simply wash and chop the ingredients, prepare the dipping sauces, and arrange everything on plates or trays around the pot.

Cooking

Once the broth is boiling, you can start adding ingredients. Leafy greens only need a quick dip, while root vegetables will take longer to cook. Meat and seafood should be cooked thoroughly. Add noodles according to the package instructions.

Dipping Sauces

Hot pot is often served with dipping sauces. You can provide a variety of sauces and let people mix and match. Common ingredients include soy sauce, sesame paste, hoisin sauce, shacha, and chili garlic sauce.

Frequently asked questions