Beef hotpot, a traditional and comforting dish originating from China, has gained immense popularity in the UK. This hearty, flavorful stew is perfect for a cold winter's night, and its rich broth and tender beef chunks will leave you craving for more. In this article, we'll explore a simple and delicious beef hotpot recipe that you can easily prepare in the comfort of your own home in the UK.
To make this mouth-watering dish, you'll need the following ingredients:
Now that you have all the ingredients, let's dive into the cooking process:
Step 1: Heat the oil in a large pot or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: In the same pot, add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced ginger and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Add the star anise, cloves, and cinnamon stick to the pot and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and Shaoxing wine to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, until the sauce is bubbly.
Step 5: Add the beef broth and water to the pot, and bring to a boil. Return the beef to the pot and simmer for 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Step 6: Season the hotpot with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve with steamed rice or noodles.
To take your beef hotpot game to the next level, here are some tips and variations to consider:
Use a variety of mushrooms, such as shiitake or cremini, for added texture and flavor.
Add some diced bell peppers or carrots to the pot for a pop of color and added nutrition.
For a spicier hotpot, add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the pot.
Experiment with different types of protein, such as pork or chicken, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Make the hotpot more substantial by adding some noodles, such as udon or rice noodles, to the pot.
With this simple and delicious beef hotpot recipe, you'll be transported to the heart of China, right in the comfort of your own home in the UK. So gather your friends and family, and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of beef hotpot on a cold winter's night.