Hot Pot Burner Buying Guide: Finding The Perfect Hot Pot Setup

If you're looking to buy a hot pot burner, you'll be pleased to know that there are many options available to you. You can choose from a variety of fuel sources, including butane, electricity, and induction.

For a butane burner, the Iwatani VA-30 Portable Butane Stove is a great option. It's cordless, quiet, and can work with non-magnetic pots. However, you'll need to procure butane canisters, which can be a hassle and add to the overall cost.

If you prefer an electric burner, the Dezin Electric Mini Pot is an affordable and compact option. It has two temperature settings and can be used for boiling broth, cooking noodles, or even sautéing.

For an induction burner, the Duxtop 9600LS is a popular choice. It's safe, efficient, and versatile, but keep in mind that it requires pots made of magnetic materials with completely flat bottoms.

When choosing a hot pot burner, consider your preferred fuel source, the size of your pot, the number of temperature settings, and whether you want additional accessories or functions. You can find these burners at various retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Target.

Electric vs. traditional hot pots

Electric hot pots are great for hosting communal dinners and are perfect for a hot pot, Japanese-style shabu-shabu, or even Swiss fondue. They are easy to plug in and operate, with simple dials to adjust the heat. They are also wide and shallow, making them ideal for communal cooking and dining.

When choosing an electric hot pot, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, material: aluminium is more lightweight, heats faster, and is usually cheaper, while stainless steel is more durable but takes longer to heat. Secondly, capacity: a 6-quart pot is suitable for larger groups, while a 2-quart pot is ideal for one or two people. Thirdly, temperature range: look for a pot with multiple heat settings to safely cook your ingredients. Finally, accessories: some electric hot pots come with grill and griddle inserts, allowing you to grill and sear meats and vegetables.

If you're looking for a traditional hot pot experience, a tabletop burner is key. A portable butane stove or a portable induction cooktop are two popular options. Butane burners are cordless, quieter, and work with any kind of flat-bottomed pot, while induction burners are safer, more efficient, and don't require butane canisters.

Aroma Housewares Grillet 3-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill

• Pros: Affordable, versatile, easy to clean, large capacity (3 quarts), adjustable temperature control, automatic shut-off feature
• Cons: May need frequent refills when cooking for a crowd

Dezin Electric Mini Pot

• Pros: Affordable, compact, multi-functional, two temperature settings
• Cons: Small size (1.6 quarts), only two temperature settings

Zojirushi Gourmet d'Expert Electric Skillet

• Pros: Multi-functional, adjustable temperature, magnetic cord for safety, cool handles, easy to clean
• Cons: Cannot be used with metal utensils

Aroma Housewares Stainless Steel Hot Pot

• Pros: Dual-bowl allows for two types of soup, large capacity (5 quarts), impressive power (1500 watts), five heat settings, dishwasher-safe
• Cons: Bowls heat at different rates, bowls cannot be separated

Where to buy hot pot burners online

Hot pots are a great way to connect with friends and family over a communal cooking experience. There are many options available online for hot pot burners, with a variety of features and at different price points. Here are some places where you can buy hot pot burners online:

Amazon

Amazon offers a wide range of electric hot pots, with various features and price points. Some popular options include:

• Dezin Hot Pot Electric: This hot pot has a 1.5L capacity and is perfect for cooking noodles, eggs, soup, and more. It has dual power settings and is portable, making it ideal for dorm rooms or small spaces.
• Electric Hot Pot with Divider: This 6L hot pot is BPA-free and has a non-stick coating. It is perfect for Shabu Shabu and comes with two silicone ladles.
• TOPWIT Hot Pot Electric: This 4L electric pot has a non-stick coating and dual power settings. It is perfect for deep frying, steak, pasta, and other dishes.
• Sonya Shabu Shabu Hot Pot Electric Mongolian Hot Pot: This hot pot has a divider, allowing you to cook two different broths at the same time. It is made of stainless steel and is perfect for family gatherings.

The Mala Market

The Mala Market offers a beautiful and functional split hot pot. It is made of triple-layered stainless steel, with a hammered edge and bolted handles. This pot is perfect for communal dining and can add a touch of elegance to your hot pot experience.

Aroma Housewares

Aroma Housewares offers a variety of electric hot pots, including the Stainless Steel Hot Pot and the Grillet 3-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill. The stainless steel hot pot has a dual-bowl design, allowing you to cook two types of soup at the same time. It has a capacity of 5 quarts and 1,500 watts of power. The Grillet 3-in-1 is a versatile option that can also be used for grilling, steaming, and slow cooking. It has a 3-quart capacity and adjustable temperature control.

Zojirushi

Zojirushi offers a multi-functional electric skillet that can be used for hot pot, grilling, steaming, and more. It has a deep inner pan, a tempered glass lid, and a titanium-ceramic non-stick plate. The pot has an adjustable temperature range of 176 to 430 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for a variety of cooking needs.

The Spruce Eats

The Spruce Eats provides reviews and recommendations for a variety of electric hot pots, including:

• Dezin Electric Mini Pot: This compact and affordable hot pot has a 1.6-quart capacity and two temperature settings. It can be used for boiling, simmering, sautéing, and more.
• Aroma Housewares Grillet 3-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill: This versatile hot pot has a 3-quart capacity and adjustable temperature control up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. It comes with a grill plate and is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
• Sunpentown Multi Cooker Shabu Shabu and Grill: This multi-functional hot pot comes with a variety of accessories, including a shallow grill pan, a steaming rack, and a strainer basket. It has a 3-quart capacity and is relatively inexpensive.

The best budget hot pot burners

Hot pot is a popular option for casual family dinners and social events. A simmering pot of liquid placed in the centre of a table, everyone cooks their serving of meat, seafood, and vegetables in the broth. The pot evolves into an aromatic soup as it takes on the flavours of the spices and foods being cooked in it.

If you're looking for a budget hot pot burner, here are some great options:

Dezin Electric Mini Pot

Dezin's hot pot looks and functions like a small saucepan. Instead of placing it on a stovetop to heat, you plug it in and turn a dial on the handle. It's perfect for boiling broth for hot pot, cooking noodles, or frying eggs. Its compact size makes it ideal for small spaces such as dorm rooms. The major downside is its size—it can only hold 1.5 litres, enough for two people at most. It also only has two temperature settings: low for simmering/slow cooking and high for boiling/sautéing. However, at $38, it's an excellent value for its versatility and functionality.

Imusa Electric Single Burner

When cost is a key consideration, this small burner from Imusa is a great option. Priced at just $15, it offers variable temperature control, allowing you to set the knob anywhere between low and high heat. Despite its size, it packs a surprising amount of power at 1,100 watts. However, its coil burner is only 5.5 inches in diameter, limiting its use to small pans. It's also not designed for long, slow cooking, as it should not be left on for more than 60 minutes in a two-hour period, and it shuts off automatically when overheated.

Aroma Housewares Grillet 3-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill

The Aroma Housewares Grillet is a versatile and affordable option for hot pot enthusiasts. It holds up to 3 quarts of liquid, making it suitable for small groups. Its 10-inch diameter provides ample space for multiple diners to navigate with chopsticks. In addition to hot pot, it can be used for fondue, slow cooking stews, and steaming dumplings. It features adjustable temperature control up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and has an automatic shut-off feature for safety. The nonstick pot, grill plate, and tempered glass lid are all dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. It's currently priced at $32, down from $40.

Duxtop 8100MC Cooktop Burner

The Duxtop induction burner is a safe and easy-to-use option for hot pot preparation. It's priced at $54.99, and you'll need to purchase a compatible pot separately. Induction burners are generally more expensive than other options, but they offer precise temperature control and safety features. They are also more powerful than traditional stovetops and can be used as an extra cooking zone in the kitchen.

Iwatani VA-30 Portable Butane Stove

If you're looking for a cordless option, the Iwatani VA-30 Portable Butane Stove is a great choice. It offers the romance and simplicity of a live flame and complete portability. Butane burners are quiet, easy to use, and compatible with any flat-bottomed pot that is safe for a stove. They are also more affordable than induction burners, although you'll need to purchase butane canisters separately, which can be a drawback. Chef Tadashi Ono recommends the Iwatani portable stove, and at a relatively inexpensive price, it's a well-built, reliable, and easy-to-use option.

The best multi-purpose hot pot burners

Hot pots are a great way to connect with friends and family over a warm, communal meal. If you're in the market for a multi-purpose hot pot burner, here are some excellent options to consider:

Electric Multi-Cookers

If you're looking for efficiency, safety, and ease of cleaning, then electric multi-cookers are the way to go. They are also more affordable than other options and can be used for various cooking purposes, making them a handy addition to your kitchen. Here are some recommendations:

• The Aroma Houseware 'Super Pot' is a great option, retailing at around $32. It offers slow cooking, simmering, grilling, and steaming functions.
• The Tayama brand has a range of electric hot pot cookers, with prices starting at $51.53.
• The Zojirushi large multi-functional electric skillet is perfect for larger groups due to its bigger size. It's also highly versatile, justifying its price of $93.19.
• The Sonya Shabu Shabu Electric Mongolian Hot Pot is affordable at $66.99 and has received good reviews on Amazon.

Induction Burners

Induction burners are another popular choice for hot pot enthusiasts. They are safe, powerful, and easy to use. You will need to purchase a compatible pot separately. Here are some recommendations:

• Duxtop 8100MC Cooktop Burner, priced at $54.99.
• Tayama Induction Cooker with a cooking pot, priced at $46.99.
• HCX 30 cm Dual-Sided Hot Pot, priced at $29.00, is perfect for those who want to enjoy two different broths simultaneously.

Butane Burners

Butane burners are ideal if you prefer the romance of a live flame or want complete portability. They are quieter than induction burners and typically more affordable. However, the biggest drawback is the need to procure butane canisters, which can be inconvenient and require proper disposal. Here is a recommended option:

Iwatani VA-30 Portable Butane Stove. This burner is well-built, reliable, and easy to use.

When choosing a multi-purpose hot pot burner, consider your intended usage, the number of people you plan to cook for, and your budget. Remember to prioritize safety and always follow the proper care and usage instructions for your chosen product. Happy cooking and enjoy your hot pot meals!

Safety considerations when buying a hot pot burner

Safety is a key consideration when buying a hot pot burner. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Type of Burner

There are two main types of burners for hot pots: butane burners and induction burners. Butane burners use a live flame and are completely cordless, offering greater portability. They are also quieter and tend to be more affordable. However, the main drawback is the need to procure and dispose of butane canisters properly. On the other hand, induction burners are electric and offer safety, efficiency, and precision. They generate heat directly in the pot itself, keeping the burner surface relatively cool. Induction burners require magnetic cookware and a nearby power outlet, and they tend to be more expensive.

Safety Features

When purchasing a hot pot burner, look for safety features such as automatic shut-off, which turns off the burner if it overheats or is left on for too long. Additionally, consider a burner with a magnetic cord that easily detaches if someone accidentally yanks on the pot. This feature can help prevent accidents and spills. For butane burners, ensure you have proper ventilation and follow safety guidelines for using an open flame indoors.

Proper Use and Maintenance

It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for using and maintaining your hot pot burner to ensure safety. This includes allowing adequate ventilation, using the correct type of cookware, and regularly cleaning the burner to prevent the buildup of grease or food debris, which could pose a fire hazard. Always supervise children and pets when the burner is in use, and ensure the burner is turned off and properly cooled down before cleaning or storing it.

Size and Placement

Choose a burner that is appropriately sized for your hot pot and the number of people you plan to serve. Larger burners can accommodate bigger pots and groups, but they may also require more ventilation and space. Ensure you place the burner on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from flammable objects and materials that could be knocked over. Keep the burner away from the edges of tables or counters to prevent accidental knocks or spills.

User-Friendly Controls

Look for a burner with intuitive controls that are easy to understand and operate. Complicated controls may lead to incorrect usage, which could be unsafe. A simple dial that allows you to turn the burner on and adjust the temperature is generally safer and more user-friendly than one with multiple buttons and settings.

Frequently asked questions