Low Carbs / Keto Made Fun – Hotpot Edition

Hotpot – The Game Changer

For those who think keto or going low carbs means sacrificing flavor or social dining, hot pot flips the script. Let’s break down why hot pot is a game changer and how to optimize it for low-carb success.

Why Hot Pot Works for Keto

1. Total Ingredient Control
Hot pot’s DIY nature lets you prioritize keto/low carbs staples: fatty meats, seafood, and leafy greens. Skip startchy / carby add-ons like noodles or dumplings, and focus on proteins and low-carb veggies.

2. Naturally Low-Carb Foundation
Traditional broths (bone-based, tomato based, garlic-ginger, or mushroom-infused) are inherently low in carbs.

3. Social Flexibility
Hot pot accommodates mixed diets effortlessly. While others add carbs, you can simmer keto-friendly proteins and veggies in shared broth without cross-contamination.

How to Build a Keto Hot Pot

Broth Basics

• Best choices: Clear bone broths (chicken, beef, or pork) with garlic, ginger, and mushrooms.
• Avoid: Broths with added sugar, cornstarch, or sweet sauces.

Proteins

• Fatty cuts: Ribeye, pork belly, lamb, chicken thighs.
• Seafood: Shrimp, scallops, fish fillets.
• Plant-based: Firm tofu, tempeh, or keto-friendly mock meats.

Veggies & Carbs

• Go-to greens: Spinach, bok choy, napa cabbage, mushrooms.
• Low-carb swaps: Shirataki noodles, zucchini spirals, or thinly sliced daikon.
• Skip: Rice noodles, rice, dumplings, taro, and sweet corn.

Fat Boosters

• Stir in a pat of butter, lard, beef tallow, or extra sesame oil to increase satiety.
• Use fatty dipping sauces like chili oil or mayo-based blends.

Pro Tips for Success

At Home

• Broth hack: Simmer chicken bones with ginger and shiitake mushrooms for a collagen-rich base.
• Prep smart: Pre-slice meats and spiralize veggies for easy assembly.

Dining Out

• Ask for modifications: Request extra greens, no noodles, no rice, and sugar-free sauces.
• Sauce station: Mix soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes—avoid hoisin or sweet dips.

Final Thoughts

Hot pot isn’t just meal prep—it’s a culinary experience that aligns perfectly with keto and low carbs principles. By focusing on high-quality fats, proteins, and fiber-rich veggies, you can enjoy a flavorful, social meal without compromising your goals.