Hot pot is a delicious, comforting choice, especially when the weather is cooler. Plus, getting to cook the meats and vegetables in a tasty broth is a fun way to ensure everything is to your taste. If it’s your first time, use these do’s and don’ts to make the most of the experience.

Do:

Use multiple chopsticks.

Preparing hot pot involves handling raw meat. To protect yourself from foodborne illnesses, use one pair of chopsticks to add the raw meat to the pot, then a clean pair to remove it when it’s thoroughly cooked.

Try the split pot.

With so many ingredients and combinations from which to choose, if you’re undecided, ask the restaurant staff for a split pot. The divided pot lets you try two different broths in which you can put any combination of meats, vegetables, and noodles. You can decide which you like best and maybe opt for a full pot next time.

Taste all the sauces.

While eating hot pot, you get to mix condiments to create your own dipping sauce. Try each option before settling on a combination. If you want to stick with a more traditional approach, most restaurants will have base sauces that you can add ingredients to, like cilantro or chili.

Don’t:

Overdo the noodles.

With so much flavor in a hot pot, you don’t want to fill up on the noodles. As tasty as they are, save them for the end after you’ve tried everything else. Instead, level up the broth’s flavor with veggies like bok choy and green onion first, then dip your meats in.

Leave the meat.

Add the meat when the broth is bubbling, but keep in mind that it won’t take long to cook. If you leave it in too long, you risk overcooking it and ending up with a rubbery, chewy result. The thinly sliced meats usually only need a few swipes through the hot soup.

Mix proteins.

If you want to try different proteins, ask for a split pot and cook them in different broths, particularly when you order seafood and red meat. Seafood’s powerful flavor may affect the taste of the other meats.

When you crave hot pot, head to New Shilawon Korean Restaurant. The family-owned Korean BBQ spot has been a Honolulu favorite since 1994. In addition to shabu shabu, they’re known for their all-you-can-eat yakiniku. Call the Korean restaurant at (808) 944-8700 or email Reservations@NewShilawonHonolulu.com to make a reservation, and visit them online for the menu. You can also check out their dishes on Facebook, Yelp, and Instagram.