Mizutaki Chicken Hot Pot

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs) 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs)
• 4 cups (950 ml) chicken stock 4 cups (950 ml) chicken stock
• 1 cup (240 ml) water 1 cup (240 ml) water
• 1 cup (240 ml) mirin 1 cup (240 ml) mirin
• 1 cup (240 ml) soy sauce 1 cup (240 ml) soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 onion, sliced 1 onion, sliced
• 2 carrots, sliced 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 leeks, sliced 2 leeks, sliced
• 1 napa cabbage, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 napa cabbage, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 block tofu, cut into cubes 1 block tofu, cut into cubes
• 4 shiitake mushrooms, sliced 4 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 4 green onions, chopped 4 green onions, chopped
• Ponzu sauce, for dipping Ponzu sauce, for dipping

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 8g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, combine the chicken stock, water, mirin, soy sauce, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken pieces to the pot and simmer for 10 minutes, skimming off any impurities that rise to the surface.
3. 3.
   Add the onion, carrots, leeks, and napa cabbage to the pot. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
4. 4.
   Gently add the tofu, shiitake mushrooms, and green onions to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. 5.
   Serve the Mizutaki Chicken Hot Pot in individual bowls, along with ponzu sauce for dipping.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken — For the best flavor and tenderness, use bone-in chicken pieces such as thighs and drumsticks.
• Tofu — To prevent the tofu from breaking apart during cooking, use firm tofu and handle it gently when adding it to the pot.
• Ponzu sauce — You can find ready-made ponzu sauce in most Asian grocery stores, or you can make your own by combining citrus juice (such as lemon or lime) with soy sauce and a touch of sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor of the broth, you can add a few slices of ginger and garlic to the pot while simmering.
• Customize the vegetables according to your preference and seasonal availability.
• For a heartier meal, you can add udon noodles or cooked rice to the hot pot.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for another delicious meal.
• Don't forget to enjoy the dipping sauce! Dip the cooked ingredients into the ponzu sauce before taking a bite for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Mizutaki Chicken Hot Pot as a centerpiece on the dining table. Each person can take their desired ingredients from the pot and dip them into the ponzu sauce before enjoying. Encourage sharing and conversation as everyone savors the comforting flavors together.

Presentation advice

Present the Mizutaki Chicken Hot Pot in a traditional Japanese donabe (earthenware pot) or a large ceramic pot. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a pop of color. The steam rising from the pot will create an inviting and appetizing presentation.