Hot Pot Warming: Keeping Meat At Its Best

Hot pots are a fun and social way of cooking and eating with friends and family. They involve cooking various raw ingredients in a pot of flavoured broth, at the table, and eating them with dipping sauces.

To keep meat warm, you can use a slow cooker, an oven, a hot water bath on the stove, or a chafing dish with chafing fuel. You can also use insulated containers, such as a thermos, thermal bags, or a cooler lined with aluminium foil.

Hot pot burners: butane vs. electric

Hot pot burners are an essential part of the hot pot dining experience, and there are several options to choose from. Here is a comparison of butane and electric burners to help you decide which one is best for your needs:

Butane Burners

Butane burners, such as the popular Iwatani brand, offer several advantages. They are relatively inexpensive, with a basic model available for less than $19. They are also highly portable, making them ideal for outdoor use at the park, beach, or campground. The butane canisters are readily available and affordable, typically costing just a few dollars each and lasting for multiple cooking sessions. Butane burners are excellent for hot pot, Korean barbecue, and other types of communal dining experiences. They can also be useful for additional cooking tasks like deep-frying, as they provide good temperature control.

However, one significant disadvantage of butane burners is the safety risk associated with overheating. It is important to ensure proper ventilation when using butane burners indoors, as there is a potential for carbon monoxide buildup.

Electric Burners

Electric burners offer a modern alternative to butane burners and are generally considered safer for indoor use. They often feature temperature control settings, making it easier to regulate the heat. Electric burners can also be more powerful, with some models offering up to 15,000 BTUs of cooking power. Additionally, electric burners are easy to clean and maintain, making them a convenient choice for regular use.

One downside of electric burners is their higher upfront cost. They tend to be more expensive than butane burners, and the price can be a barrier for those on a tight budget. However, electric burners are generally more efficient in the long run, as they do not require the ongoing purchase of fuel canisters.

Both butane and electric burners have their advantages and disadvantages. Butane burners are inexpensive, portable, and great for outdoor use, but they come with safety risks. Electric burners, on the other hand, offer temperature control, higher power output, and easier maintenance, but they are more costly upfront. Ultimately, the decision between butane and electric burners depends on your specific needs, budget, and intended usage.

Broths: Mala Beef vs. Herbal Mushroom

Hot pot is a fun and social way of cooking and eating. It involves a pot of flavoured broth, placed on a burner at the centre of the table, into which raw ingredients are added and cooked. The cooked ingredients are then removed from the broth and eaten with dipping sauces.

The broths are the building blocks of a hot pot meal. A spicy Mala Beef broth is a fiery red colour and worth the effort it takes to prepare. An Herbal Mushroom broth is vegan and provides a refreshing contrast to the Mala Beef broth.

Mala Beef Broth

This broth is inspired by Taiwanese beef noodle soup. It is a labour of love, but it's worth it for the rich, fiery base it provides for your hot pot spread.

Herbal Mushroom Broth

This vegan broth is umami-rich and full of flavour. It's a great option for vegetarians and provides a refreshing break from a spicy broth.

Hot Pot Ingredients

The beauty of hot pot is its versatility. You can choose whatever ingredients you like, but a good hot pot spread will include a variety of textures and flavours.

Meat

Meat is a great addition to hot pot as it adds flavour to the broth. Options include:

• Beef short ribs
• Presliced fatty beef (usually brisket or chuck)
• Leg of lamb
• Presliced pork belly

Seafood

Seafood adds a briny, balanced note to your hot pot. Try:

• Manila clams
• Shrimp

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens provide an herbal flavour and fresh texture. Options include:

• Napa cabbage
• Chrysanthemum greens
• Yu choy

Hardy Vegetables

Hardy vegetables provide a textural contrast to the meal. Try:

• Mountain yam
• Taro
• Lotus root
• Celtuce
• Kabocha squash
• Potato

Mushrooms

Mushrooms add a grassy flavour and chewy texture. They're also a great meat substitute for vegetarians. Options include:

• Enoki and beech mushrooms
• Shiitake mushrooms
• King oyster mushrooms

Accessories

Accessories are not necessary but will make your hot pot better. Try:

• Fried bean curd rolls
• Fish tofu
• Fish balls
• Beef balls
• Frozen tofu
• Egg dumplings

Starch

Starch is a great way to round out your hot pot meal. Options include:

• Instant ramen
• Rice
• Glass noodles
• Dumplings

Prepping and cooking meats

Prepping and cooking meat is an important part of the process when it comes to serving up a delicious meal. Here are some tips to help you prepare and cook meat safely and effectively.

Safe Meat Handling

It is important to follow manufacturer guidelines when storing and handling raw meat. Always thaw frozen meat in the fridge or on a reduced heat setting in the microwave; never leave it on the counter. Wash your hands and tools in hot, soapy water before prepping meat, and keep raw meat separate from other foods. Only prepare meat alongside other foods once it has reached the proper internal temperature.

Beef

When preparing beef patties, handle the meat as little as possible and add seasonings sparingly to preserve tenderness. When grilling, keep the heat at a medium temperature and refrain from pressing the meat with a spatula to retain its juices. For steak, allow it to sit outside the fridge for around 30 minutes while the grill heats up. Trimming any excess fat will also help maintain tenderness.

Pork

Brining or marinating pork will help keep the fat moist during cooking. Dry rubs are another great way to enhance flavour. Aim for an internal temperature of no higher than 160° F to preserve juiciness.

Poultry

Raw poultry should be stored separately at the bottom of the fridge to prevent dripping onto other items. Always wash your hands and prep station before and after handling raw poultry. Brining or marinating can enhance flavour and moisture.

Freezing Meat

If you plan to freeze meat, use fresh (not previously frozen) meat to avoid food safety issues and changes in texture. For raw meat, freeze on a parchment-lined plate or cookie sheet for 30 minutes to an hour before transferring to a freezer container or bag. For cooked meat, cool it down and then store it in the freezer or fridge.

Marinating Meat

Marinating is a great way to prep meat in advance, enhancing the flavour and tenderness of the cut. However, be careful not to leave tender meats in acidic liquids for too long.

Cooking Meat

When cooking meat, it is crucial to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature to avoid foodborne illnesses. For beef, this typically means cooking it until it is browned, with an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare and 160°F for medium. Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F, while poultry should reach 165°F.

Prepping and cooking seafood

Seafood is a versatile and delicious choice for any meal, and with its fast cook time, it's perfect for meal prep. Here are some tips and recipes to help you prep and cook seafood like a pro.

Choosing the Right Seafood

When it comes to seafood, freshness is key. Opt for fresh seafood over frozen whenever possible, and make sure to check the smell and appearance to ensure it's in good condition. If you're on a budget, tilapia is a great choice, while salmon and tuna offer a range of health benefits.

Safe Storage

Seafood is highly perishable, so proper storage is crucial. Use thawed seafood within a couple of days, and always trust your nose – if it smells off, it's best to discard it.

Cooking Tips

Seafood cooks quickly and can easily become overcooked. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, and be mindful that seafood continues to cook even after being removed from the heat source.

Meal Prep Ideas

Baked Salmon with Butternut Squash

This meal is a great option for a light and refreshing lunch. Simply bake your salmon and pair it with parmesan butternut squash noodles for a low-carb, nutritious dish.

Tilapia with Zucchini and Bell Peppers

One-pan meals are convenient and help you focus on getting the cook on the fish just right. This dish combines tilapia with zucchini and bell peppers for a healthy and tasty weeknight dinner.

Air Fryer Shrimp and Pineapple Kebabs

Impress your family or guests with this tropical treat. Shrimp and pineapple kebabs are not only delicious but also simple to make. They're sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Grilled Balsamic Salmon with Watermelon Salad

This unique combination of flavours and colours is sure to delight your taste buds. The balsamic drizzle brings together the savoury notes of the salmon and the sweetness of the watermelon for a refreshing meal.

Baked Pine Nut Crusted Tilapia with Spinach

For a low-carb, keto-friendly option, try this pine nut-crusted tilapia. It's quick to make and pairs well with sautéed spinach for a healthy dose of greens.

Smoked Salmon and Fruit Salad

This salad is an unexpected pairing that works surprisingly well. The smoky, salty flavour of smoked salmon blends beautifully with the sweetness of fruits and veggies, creating a refreshing and satisfying dish.

Shrimp Ramen

On cooler days, warm up with a bowl of shrimp ramen. It's an easy-to-make comfort food that's loaded with healthy ingredients like mushrooms and bok choy, providing you with antioxidants and vitamins.

Blackened Salmon Kale Caesar Salad

Salmon and kale come together in this nutritious and tasty salad. It's a great option for meal prep, offering a good balance of protein and greens.

Shrimp and Artichoke Salad

This scrumptious salad combines fresh ingredients and pantry staples for an easy, filling, and make-ahead lunch option. It's perfect for those who want a quick and satisfying meal.

Sheet-Pan Tilapia + Veggies

Tilapia and veggies are a match made in heaven, and this sheet-pan meal makes prep and cleanup a breeze. Simply reheat and enjoy throughout your busy workweek!

Tuna and White Bean Salad

For a budget-friendly option, try this tuna and white bean salad. It costs around $1 per meal and takes just 15 minutes to toss together. It's a tasty and economical choice.

Salmon and Asparagus

Salmon and asparagus is a hearty and nutritious combination that will keep you full and satisfied throughout the week. It's a great option for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious and healthy lunch every day.

Shrimp Zucchini Noodles

If you're craving a low-carb, quick, and healthy meal, this shrimp scampi with zucchini noodles is the perfect choice. It's a tasty and guilt-free treat that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Sweet Chili Salmon Meal Prep Bowls

These flavour-packed bowls can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it easy to have a delicious and nutritious lunch on hand throughout the week.

Tips for Success

• Don't overcook your seafood – it can become dry and chewy.
• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible.
• Experiment with different types of seafood to find your favourites.
• Store seafood properly to maintain freshness.
• Include a variety of vegetables and grains to create well-rounded meals.

Using a slow cooker to keep food warm

A slow cooker is a great way to keep food warm, especially if you're serving a large group of people. Here are some tips for using a slow cooker to keep your food warm:

• Understand your slow cooker and its settings. Most models bring the mixture to a boil and then either boil or simmer it for the programmed time. The high and low settings determine how quickly the mixture comes to a boil or how hard it boils.
• If you're using your slow cooker to keep food warm, it's best to use the "Keep Warm" setting. This will maintain a safe temperature for your food until you're ready to eat. However, keep in mind that some "keep warm" settings may continue to boil the food, so it's a good idea to test this out before your event.
• When using a slow cooker to keep food warm, start with warm food. If you're using it to keep food like mashed potatoes warm, make sure they are served at 140°F or higher to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Warm the potatoes in the oven or microwave before transferring them to the slow cooker.
• Keep the slow cooker on a low setting to prevent the food from drying out. If the food starts to dry out, you can add a small amount of liquid, such as milk or broth, to moisten it.
• If you're using a slow cooker to keep food warm, make sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the sides of the cooker and to ensure even heating.
• Slow cookers are great for keeping dishes warm, but they may not be suitable for all types of food. Delicate foods may be better suited for other warming methods, such as a double boiler.

Frequently asked questions