Fish Hot Pot

Fish Hot Pot

　　Haikou locals have always loved eating fish, but they prefer to stew it in soup or combine it with other ingredients. Thus, the most famous traditional dish of old Haikou is fish hot pot, found in every alley and lane. Each chef has their own secret recipe, giving the flavor a unique twist.

　　A fish hot pot contains many ingredients—no less than seven or eight kinds. The fish is the main component, which can be ordered by the piece or by weight. Every fish hot pot is layered with vegetables and tofu at the bottom. Glass noodles, tofu, and fried tofu skin all play their roles, offering distinct flavors. Seasonings like Sichuan peppercorn, pepper, ginger, and garlic are essential components of the dish. While the basic ingredients across different shops are quite similar, what really hooks diners is how well the chef balances these seasonings.

　　The fish hot pot on Yulong Road is the most famous.