How to Say Hotpot in Chinese

Are you a fan of the deliciously steaming hotpot? Well, if you find yourself in China or simply want to impress your Chinese friends, it’s essential to know how to say “hotpot” in Chinese. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to say it, highlight some regional variations, and provide you with useful tips and examples. So, let’s dive in and uncover the secrets of expressing your love for hotpot in Chinese!

Formal Ways to Say Hotpot

If you’re looking to use formal language or communicate in more official settings, here are a few commonly used terms for hotpot:

1. Shuān yáng ròu (涮羊肉): This term literally translates to “swishing mutton” and is often used in northern China, where mutton-based hotpot is popular.
2. Huǒ guō (火锅): The most commonly used term for hotpot across China, huǒ guō means “fire pot,” referring to the hotpot’s heated pot in which the ingredients are cooked. This term is widely understood and used throughout the country.
3. Rè cháng huǒ guō (热辣火锅): This phrase directly translates to “spicy and hot hotpot” and is particularly suitable if you prefer your hotpot with a spicy kick. It emphasizes the spiciness and heat that hotpot often brings to the table.

Informal Ways to Say Hotpot

If you’re in a more casual setting or talking with close friends, you may prefer to use more informal terms to express your craving for hotpot. Here are some options:

1. Huǒ guō ba (火锅吧): Adding “ba” at the end of the phrase gives it a more casual and conversational tone. This phrase is similar to saying “Let’s grab some hotpot!” in English.
2. Shuān guō (涮锅): This shorter and slightly less formal term can be used when referring to hotpot in a more relaxed context. It’s commonly understood, and you’ll likely hear it in local eateries or among friends.
3. Huǒ guō dīn (火锅店): This phrase means “hotpot restaurant” and can be used when discussing specific places to eat hotpot. It’s a casual and straightforward way to express your desire to visit a hotpot establishment.

Regional Variations

While the term “huǒ guō” is commonly used throughout China, there are regional variations in hotpot styles. Here are a few examples:

Sichuan Hotpot

Sichuan hotpot, also known as “málà huǒ guō” (麻辣火锅), is a signature dish from Sichuan province known for its numbing and spicy sensation. When referring to Sichuan hotpot specifically, it’s best to use the term “málà huǒ guō” to capture its unique characteristics.

Chongqing Hotpot

Chongqing hotpot, or “xiāng là huǒ guō” (香辣火锅), is another popular style characterized by its fragrant and spicy flavors. “Xiāng là” translates to “fragrance and spiciness,” so make sure to use this term when discussing Chongqing hotpot.

Beijing Hotpot

Beijing hotpot, or “Běijīng hú guō” (北京砂锅), is often associated with traditional Mongolian-style lamb hotpot. Although the term “huǒ guō” is still widely used to discuss hotpot in Beijing, specifying “Běijīng hú guō” might further indicate the regional flavors and customs associated with this variety.

Cantonese Hotpot

Cantonese hotpot, or “gwō choi” (火锅), is popular in the southern region of China, especially in Hong Kong and Guangdong. The term “gwō choi” is the Cantonese pronunciation of “huǒ guō” and reflects the regional variation.

Tips for Ordering Hotpot in Chinese

Now that you’ve learned how to say “hotpot” in Chinese, here are some handy tips to enhance your hotpot ordering experience:

• Specify the broth: When ordering hotpot, you can choose from a variety of broths, such as spicy, mild, or herbal. You can say “wǒ xiǎng yào (flavor) huǒ guō” to express your broth preference. For example, “wǒ xiǎng yào là de huǒ guō” means “I want spicy hotpot.”
• Choose your ingredients: Hotpot offers a vast array of ingredients, including meat, vegetables, and seafood. If you want a specific ingredient, say “wǒ xiǎng yào (ingredient) huǒ guō.” For instance, “wǒ xiǎng yào xuě yú huǒ guō” would mean “I want fish hotpot.”
• Request spice levels: If you prefer a milder or spicier hotpot, you can use “bù yào là” for no spice, “yào xiǎo là” for less spice, or “yào dà là” for extra spice. For example, “wǒ yào xiǎo là de huǒ guō” means “I want hotpot with less spice.”
• Enjoy local dipping sauces: Each region in China has its own unique dipping sauce to complement hotpot. Ask for local recommendations such as “Nálǐ de běnsuān (region) jiān jiàng” to discover the best sauce for your hotpot experience. For instance, in Sichuan, you may ask “Nálǐ de běnsuān Sìchuān jiān jiàng?” which means “What is the local Sichuan sauce here?”

Now, equipped with the knowledge of how to say hotpot in Chinese and some ordering tips, you are ready to embark on a hotpot adventure in China or impress your Chinese friends. Explore the fascinating world of hotpot variations, savor the rich flavors, and enjoy the lively atmosphere that hotpot brings. Enjoy!