Nabe, short for "nabemono," is a traditional Japanese hot pot dish that is popular during colder months. It typically consists of a variety of ingredients such as vegetables, tofu, and meat or seafood, all cooked together in a simmering pot of broth. Nabe is often enjoyed communally, with diners cooking their food at the table and sharing the meal, making it a social dining experience.
There are many regional variations of nabe, each featuring unique ingredients and flavors. Some well-known types include sukiyaki, which uses a sweet soy sauce-based broth, and shabu-shabu, where thinly sliced meat is quickly cooked in a light broth. Nabe is not only a comforting dish but also a versatile one, allowing for creativity in ingredient selection.