Nabemono

Nabemono 鍋物 are traditional Japanese hot pot dishes that are especially popular during the winter months. The term nabemono is composed of the words nabe 鍋, meaning “pot,” and mono 物, meaning “things.” These dishes are typically prepared and consumed in a communal pot at the dining table, creating a convivial and shared dining experience.

There are many variations of nabemono, which vary according to region and personal preferences. Among the most well-known are sukiyaki すき焼き, a sweet-savory hot pot made from thinly sliced beef, tofu, and vegetables, and shabu-shabu しゃぶしゃぶ, where thin slices of meat and vegetables are cooked in a light broth.

The base of nabemono is usually a broth made from dashi, soy sauce, and other seasonings. This broth can be enriched with various ingredients such as meat, fish, seafood, vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms. After cooking, the ingredients are often dipped into a flavorful sauce, such as ponzu or sesame sauce.