Shabu Shabu
しゃぶしゃぶ
Shabu shabu しゃぶしゃぶ is a Japanese dish that belongs to the category of nabemono 鍋物. It is a type of meat fondue where thinly sliced meat, usually beef, is cooked in a pot of boiling water or broth. The name shabu shabu mimics the sound made when the meat is swished back and forth in the hot water.
The preparation of shabu shabu is a communal experience, where guests dip the meat and various vegetables such as tofu 豆腐, shiitake 椎茸, enoki えのき, and napa cabbage 白菜 into the broth and then remove them after a short time. After cooking, the ingredients are dipped into various sauces, such as ponzu ポン酢 or sesame sauce.
Historically, shabu shabu has its roots in Chinese cuisine, specifically the Mongolian hot pot, but it became popular in Japan in the mid-20th century. It is a versatile dish that can include not only meat but also seafood and vegetarian options.