Sichuan Hot Pot: Navigating The Gluten-Free Landscape

Sichuan hot pot is a popular dish that originated in China. It typically involves dipping raw ingredients such as thinly sliced meats, vegetables, and noodles into a flavorful broth. While it can be a challenging dish to make gluten-free due to the inclusion of wheat-based ingredients like doubanjiang and Shaoxing wine, it is possible to make gluten-free versions by substituting certain ingredients. For example, dry sherry can be used instead of Shaoxing wine, and a gluten-free Doubanjiang can be sourced. Some restaurants that serve Sichuan hot pot may also offer gluten-free options, but it's important to check with the staff to ensure that the food is safe for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Gluten-free hot pot bases

Hot pot is a fun and interactive meal that can be made gluten-free. While hot pot soup bases sold in stores almost always contain gluten, there are several gluten-free options available, including some that can be purchased and others that can be made at home.

Some options for gluten-free hot pot bases that can be purchased include:

• Little Sheep hot pot flavor – one of their flavors is reportedly gluten-free.
• Trident brand noodle soups – these are gluten-free and can be purchased in single-portion sizes.
• Fody chicken and veggie soup bases – these are certified gluten-free.
• Boiling Point Curried Tofu Hot Pot Soup & Seasoning Base – this vegan and gluten-free option is available on Amazon.

If you prefer to make your own gluten-free hot pot base at home, there are several recipes available online. Here are some ideas for gluten-free hot pot bases:

• Chicken broth – this can be made more flavorful by adding dried chillies, sliced ginger, shiitake or straw mushrooms, bamboo, and other vegetables.
• Gluten-free tomato base – this can be purchased on Amazon (Mike Chen brand).
• Kimchi base – this is a good option if you want spicy hot pot without the work of making a hot and numbing base.
• San J tamari (certified GF), squid brand fish sauce (no gluten ingredients), and lao gan ma chili crisp (no gluten ingredients) – these can be combined with low-sodium chicken broth for a gluten-free hot pot base.
• Sichuan hot pot soup base – this can be made gluten-free by using dry sherry instead of Shaoxing wine and a gluten-free doubanjiang, such as a Japanese brand.
• Chinese herbal soup base – a recipe for this can be found on The Chinese Soup Lady website.
• Vegan Japanese nabemono – a recipe for this can be found on Veggiekins.
• Cambodian hot pot ya hon – a recipe for this can be found on Ann Ledo's website (use gf fish sauce).
• Milky white yakuzen medicinal hot pot – this Japanese version uses soymilk instead of dairy milk and can be made gluten-free by using gf ponzu.
• Sichuan hot pot soup base – a gluten-free version of this can be found on the Woks of Life website (use gf doubanjiang).
• Vietnamese vegan hot pot – a recipe for this can be found on The Viet Vegan website.
• Cantonese-style hot pot – a recipe for this can be found on Made with Lau's website (use gf soy and oyster sauce).

Gluten-free dipping sauces

While hot pot is a great gluten-free option for those who are looking to avoid wheat, it's important to be cautious of the dipping sauces that often accompany it. Many store-bought hot pot soup bases and dipping sauces contain gluten, so it's best to make your own at home if you're looking for a gluten-free option.

Beijing Hot Pot Dipping Sauce

This sauce is easy to make gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce. It is a great option for those who enjoy a more savoury and spicy sauce.

Creamy Garlic and Sesame Dipping Sauce

Another delicious option that can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce. The creaminess of this sauce comes from blending garlic with sesame, resulting in a rich and savoury flavour.

Coriander Chilli Hot Pot Dipping Sauce

For those who enjoy a spicy kick, this sauce can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce. It's a perfect blend of spicy and savoury, with a hint of coriander to add a refreshing twist.

Thai Dipping Sauce

This sauce is a refreshing blend of lime juice, coriander, ginger, and sugar substitute. It's easy to make gluten-free and is perfect for those who enjoy a tangy and slightly spicy dip.

Tahini Dipping Sauce

A simple yet delicious option, this sauce is made with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. It's a great choice for those who are looking for a creamier and slightly tangy dip.

Spinach Dip

A tasty and healthy option, this spinach dip is made with only seven ingredients and is naturally gluten-free, low carb, and keto-friendly. It's a great choice for those who want a nutritious and delicious dip.

Guacamole

Guacamole is a classic dip that is naturally gluten-free and can be made in just 5 minutes. It's a perfect option for those who want a fresh and easy-to-make dip to pair with their hot pot.

Hummus

Hummus is another popular dip that can be easily made gluten-free by using gluten-free ingredients. It's a healthy and delicious option that can be enjoyed with various dippers.

Gluten-free doubanjiang

Most doubanjiang contains wheat, but there is a Japanese brand called Youki Sichuan Doubanjiang that is gluten-free. This can be hard to source and requires careful label reading in stores. Other recommended brands include Mong Lee Shang, Six Fortune, and Master, which are also gluten-free.

If you are feeling ambitious, you can make your own gluten-free doubanjiang at home. It is a lengthy process, but a rewarding one for those who want to ensure their hot pot is gluten-free. Simply substitute rice flour for wheat flour in the recipe. You can also make a quick version using Chinese chilli paste, ancho or negro chillies, preserved salted black beans, gluten-free tamari, Chinese five-spice powder, ground Sichuan pepper, cardamom, and ginger.

There are also substitute options for those who can't find gluten-free doubanjiang. One substitute option is to use gluten-free gochujang (Korean chilli bean paste) and add tamari and chopped olives. Another option is to use a combination of gluten-free miso paste, tamari, sambal oelek, and chopped olives in equal parts.

Gluten-free hot pot at restaurants

Hot pot is a popular dish, especially in China, and it involves tableside cooking by dipping raw ingredients into a broth. While hot pot can be a gluten-free meal, as you get to choose the ingredients you want to cook and eat, there are some things to keep in mind when ordering hot pot at a restaurant.

Broth

The broth or soup base is an important component of hot pot, and it is usually made with gluten-containing ingredients such as wheat noodles, dumplings, fish cakes, and fish balls. However, you can make gluten-free broth at home or find gluten-free options at some restaurants. When dining out, it is essential to ask the restaurant staff about the ingredients used in their broth to ensure it is safe for celiacs or those with gluten intolerance.

Dipping Sauces

Most hot pot dipping sauces contain gluten, as they typically include soy sauce, oyster sauce, black vinegar, Shaoxing wine, or ponzu. It is crucial to inquire about the ingredients in the dipping sauces and opt for gluten-free substitutes if necessary.

Ingredients to Avoid

When enjoying hot pot at a restaurant, it is best to avoid certain ingredients that typically contain gluten. These include wheat noodles, dumplings, fish cakes, and fish balls. Instead, opt for gluten-free alternatives such as rice noodles, fresh meats, and vegetables.

Gluten-Free Hot Pot Options

Some restaurants may offer gluten-free hot pot options or be willing to accommodate special requests. It is always a good idea to call ahead and inquire about their gluten-free options and the steps they take to prevent cross-contamination.

Customizing Your Hot Pot

The beauty of hot pot is that you can customize it to your preferences and dietary needs. If you are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease, be sure to choose gluten-free ingredients and ask the restaurant about any gluten-containing additives in the broth or sauces.

Homemade Hot Pot

If you are unsure about the gluten-free options at restaurants, you can always make hot pot at home. By making your own hot pot, you have complete control over the ingredients and can ensure it is safe for your gluten-free diet. There are many gluten-free hot pot base and dipping sauce recipes available online.

In conclusion, while hot pot can be a fun and interactive gluten-free dining experience, it is important to be cautious when ordering at restaurants. Always inquire about the ingredients used and opt for gluten-free alternatives when necessary. With careful planning and ingredient selection, you can safely enjoy hot pot, whether dining out or cooking at home.

Making gluten-free hot pot at home

Ingredients

Firstly, you will need to gather your ingredients, keeping in mind that traditional hot pot bases and dipping sauces often contain gluten. For a gluten-free hot pot, opt for gluten-free alternatives where possible.

For the soup base, you will need:

• Spices: Sichuan peppercorns, dried chilli peppers, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, and fermented black beans (or black bean paste/sauce).
• Oils: Rapeseed oil, or a neutral oil like grapeseed or canola oil. For a richer taste, you can use tallow (beef fat).
• Aromatics: Garlic, ginger, and green onions.
• Seasonings: Rock sugar (or white sugar), gluten-free soy sauce, dry sherry or Shaoxing wine, and mushroom or chicken bouillon powder.

For the hot pot:

• Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth.
• Meat: Thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken thighs or your choice of protein such as beef, pork, lamb, or seafood.
• Noodles: Gluten-free bean thread noodles, rice noodles, or udon noodles.
• Vegetables: Bok choy (or baby bok choy), green onions (scallions), mung bean sprouts, mushrooms, napa cabbage, watercress, spinach, or fresh herbs.

Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients, it's time to start cooking!

• Combine all the spices in a blender or food processor and blend until they form small flakes.
• Heat the oil in a pot over low heat and add the aromatics (garlic, ginger, and green onions). Cook until fragrant, stirring frequently.
• Add the doubanjiang (fermented black beans) and cook for another minute.
• Mix in the blended spices and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the oil turns a vibrant orange-red colour.
• Add the sugar, Shaoxing wine or dry sherry, and mushroom or chicken bouillon powder. Stir until dissolved.
• Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool for 10-20 minutes.
• Once cooled, blend the mixture until the oil is emulsified.
• Pour the soup base into a container and refrigerate. It will form a thick paste, which can be portioned and stored for future use.
• To use the soup base, dilute it with broth and heat it up.
• Bring the broth to a boil and add your choice of protein and noodles. Simmer until cooked through.
• Serve the hot pot by allowing each person to fill their bowls with fresh vegetables and a gluten-free dipping sauce, if desired.
• Ladle the scalding hot soup over the veggies and let them sit for a few minutes before enjoying.

Tips and Variations

• It is recommended to use whole spices instead of ground spices for maximum taste.
• Ensure your Sichuan peppercorns are fresh, as they are one of the main ingredients and add a unique tingling sensation.
• If you cannot find Chinese dried chilli peppers, Korean dried chilli peppers can be used as a substitute.
• For a vegan hot pot, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the meat. You can add extra-firm tofu or root vegetables like sweet potato.
• Hot pot is a versatile dish, so feel free to add other ingredients like leafy greens, dumplings, or chilli oil for extra spice.
• The broth can be made in advance, and it will develop a richer flavour when stored in a sealed container in the fridge.

Enjoy your delicious gluten-free hot pot!

Frequently asked questions