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Hotpot: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿฒ
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hotpot

[หˆhษ’tpษ’t ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food

A Chinese stew consisting of a simmering metal pot of stock at the center of the dining table, and ingredients such as thinly sliced meat, leafy vegetables, mushrooms, wontons, and seafood surrounding it. The ingredients are cooked at the table by the diners.

Synonyms

Chinese hotpot, steamboat.

Examples of usage

  • Let's go out for hotpot tonight!
  • I love the variety of ingredients you can choose for hotpot.
Context #2 | Noun

British slang

A situation or place that is dangerous or unpleasant.

Synonyms

dangerous place, unpleasant situation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hotpot

This term could also be misused or confuse people as it generally has a positive connotation related to food. Instead, use 'hotpot' in the correct context as a communal meal.

  • N/A
dangerous place

Use this term when describing locations that pose a physical threat or risk to safety.

  • Be careful when walking through that alley at night; it's known to be a dangerous place.
  • After the earthquake, the city was declared a dangerous place due to unstable buildings.
unpleasant situation

This phrase describes scenarios that are uncomfortable, troublesome, or distressing, though not necessarily dangerous.

  • Getting caught in a lie can create a very unpleasant situation.
  • Losing your wallet while traveling can lead to an unpleasant situation.

Examples of usage

  • That neighborhood is a real hotpot.
  • The club turned into a hotpot after midnight.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Origins

  • The concept of hot pot can be traced back to ancient China, particularly during the Han Dynasty as a communal dining experience.
  • In Chinese culture, hot pot is often enjoyed during family gatherings, symbolizing unity and togetherness.
  • Different regions of China have their unique styles of hot pot, such as Sichuan spicy hot pot and Cantonese herbal hot pot.

Cultural Significance

  • In Taiwan, hot pot is often served with a variety of dipping sauces, allowing individuals to customize their meal to their liking.
  • Hot pot is celebrated in other East Asian countries too, with variations like Japanese shabu-shabu and Korean jeongol, showcasing local ingredients and flavors.
  • The practice of sharing a hot pot meal fosters social connections, as diners cook and eat together, enhancing the experience.

Health and Nutrition

  • Using fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and stocks can make hot pot a wholesome meal option, rich in nutrients and flavors.
  • The cooking method allows for quick preparation, helping retain texture and nutrients in ingredients, making it a healthy choice.
  • Diners often have control over portion sizes and ingredients, which can aid in mindful eating practices.

Pop Culture

  • Hot pot has gained popularity internationally, appearing on food shows and in trendy restaurants, positioning it as a culinary experience rather than just a meal.
  • In many cities outside of Asia, dedicated hot pot restaurants are thriving, offering diverse broths and ingredients to cater to different tastes.
  • Online trends often showcase unique hot pot creations, revealing new flavors and ingredients that captivate food enthusiasts worldwide.

Science of Cooking

  • The use of a boiling pot promotes a quick cooking process, allowing for proteins to be cooked through while retaining moisture.
  • The steaming broth extracts flavors from the ingredients, creating a rich and delicious soup that enhances the overall dining experience.
  • Studies show that communal cooking and eating, like with hot pot, can improve mood and strengthen relationships among participants.

Translations

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Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,372, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.