What is malatang?

Malatang is a popular type of Chinese street food, originating from the Sichuan and Chongqing regions known for their spicy cuisine. The name "malatang" comes from two Chinese characters: "mala" (麻辣), which means "numbingly spicy," and "tang" (汤), which means "soup." The dish is characterized by its flavorful and often very spicy broth made with Sichuan peppercorns and dried chili peppers, which give the dish its signature numbing and spicy sensation.

Malatang is typically served in a communal hot pot style, where diners can select from a wide variety of raw ingredients to be cooked in the spicy broth. Common ingredients include various types of meat (such as beef, lamb, and chicken), seafood, tofu, and a plethora of vegetables, noodles, and mushrooms. Once the ingredients are chosen, they are boiled in the broth until cooked and served either in the broth or on a skewer.

This dish has become very popular outside of China as well, with many restaurants offering malatang in other Asian countries and even in Western countries. The level of spiciness can often be adjusted based on personal preference, making it an adaptable dish for different palates.

Malatang also features a range of dipping sauces, allowing diners to further customize their flavors. These sauces often include sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, chili oil, and fresh herbs. The combination of spicy broth and the customization options make malatang a unique and interactive dining experience.