Low Sodium Classic Hot Pot Broth

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Low Sodium Classic Hot Pot Broth—a wholesome, lighter take on the beloved Chinese hot pot base. Designed to deliver rich, aromatic depth without excessive salt, this broth combines low sodium chicken stock with layers of umami from dried shiitake mushrooms, a touch of warmth from ginger and garlic, and the bold scents of Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, and cinnamon. A splash of low sodium soy sauce and rice vinegar adds a gentle tang that perfectly balances the spices. Ready in just under an hour, this simple yet flavorful broth makes the ideal foundation for your favorite hot pot additions, whether thinly sliced meats, vibrant vegetables, or silky noodles. Perfect for communal dining or cozy meals, this hot pot broth is a delicious way to prioritize both health and authentic, home-cooked flavor.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 8 cups water
• 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 6 pieces dried shiitake mushrooms
• 1 inch large piece of ginger, sliced
• 4 pieces garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 pieces green onions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns
• 1 piece star anise
• 1 piece cinnamon stick

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot, combine 8 cups of water with 4 cups of low sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the dried shiitake mushrooms to the pot and simmer for 10 minutes to rehydrate them, allowing the rich umami flavor to infuse into the broth.

Step 3

While the mushrooms are simmering, slice a 1-inch piece of ginger into thin slices and smash 4 cloves of garlic.

Step 4

Add the prepared ginger slices and smashed garlic cloves to the pot along with 2 chopped green onions.

Step 5

Stir in 2 tablespoons of low sodium soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar for a subtle tang and depth.

Step 6

Add the Sichuan peppercorns, star anise, and cinnamon stick to the broth. Simmer for an additional 25 minutes to allow the spices to flavor the broth fully.

Step 7

Taste the broth and adjust seasoning as desired, keeping in mind the low sodium profile. If necessary, a small amount of low sodium soy sauce can be added.

Step 8

Before serving, remove the shiitake mushrooms, ginger slices, garlic, and whole spices from the broth using a slotted spoon or by straining the broth for a smoother texture.

Step 9

Divide the broth among serving pots or bowls, and your Low Sodium Classic Hot Pot Broth is ready to be enjoyed with your choice of hot pot ingredients.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3073.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	409.1

Total Fat 2.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 0.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3516.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 84.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 22.3g	0%
Total Sugars 6.2g
Protein 27.5g	0%

Vitamin D 924IU	0%
Calcium 321.2mg	0%
Iron 8.1mg	0%
Potassium 2090.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 4.6%

Protein: 23.5%

Carbs: 71.9%