EXO Chanyeol's Korean-Style Malatang (마라탕)
Why this food?
Malatang is the spicy-numbing Chinese hotpot that conquered Korea and became a K-pop obsession — celebrities like Chanyeol can't get enough. This interactive, DIY broth lets you customize every ingredient while experiencing the addictive 'má-là' (numbing-spicy) sensation that's taken Seoul by storm. Perfect for K-pop fans wanting that authentic Korean street food experience at home.
🇰🇷 K-Culture Tip
Malatang arrived in Korea around 2015 but exploded in popularity by 2020, becoming a staple among Gen Z and K-pop idols. The 'má-là' sensation comes from Sichuan peppercorns that create a tingling numbness on your tongue — it's not just heat, it's a unique flavor experience Koreans call '얼얼함' (eol-eol-ham). Korean versions are often less intense than authentic Chinese versions, making them perfect for building heat tolerance.
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Substitute Ingredients
All available at Walmart
| Original | Substitute |
|---|---|
Chicken Broth 닭 육수 | Great Value Low Sodium Chicken Broth Great Value (Walmart) Use low-sodium to control saltiness and let the Sichuan peppercorn flavor shine through Shop at Walmart |
Sichuan Peppercorns & Chili Crisp 화자오 / 마라 향신료 | Walmart Spice Aisle Sichuan Peppercorns + Crispy Chili Oil McCormick or Store Brand The peppercorns create the numbing sensation; chili crisp adds heat. Start conservatively — you can always add more but can't remove it Shop at Walmart |
Malatang Add-Ins (Vegetables, Tofu, Protein) 마라탕 재료 (야채, 두부, 고기) | Walmart Fresh Vegetables Bundle + Silken Tofu + Protein Choice Great Value or Fresh Produce Choose 4-5 ingredients you enjoy. Popular Korean choices: enoki mushrooms, bok choy, fish cakes, thinly sliced beef, or silken tofu. Prep by slicing thin so items cook quickly in 2-5 minutes Shop at Walmart |
🛒 Can't find it at Walmart? Try a Korean grocery store
Your Shopping List
Walmart edition
- 8 cups (64 oz / two 32oz cartons) Great Value Low Sodium Chicken Broth
- 3 tablespoons total (2 tbsp peppercorns, 1 tbsp chili crisp) Walmart Spice Aisle Sichuan Peppercorns + Crispy Chili Oil
- 3-4 cups mixed (your choice: spinach, mushrooms, carrots, tofu, chicken, shrimp, etc.) Walmart Fresh Vegetables Bundle + Silken Tofu + Protein Choice
Instructions
- 1
Step 1: Pour the Walmart Great Value Chicken Broth into a large pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of the Sichuan peppercorns and 1 tablespoon of the chili crisp, stirring well to infuse the broth with that signature numbing-spicy flavor.
- 2
Step 2: Reduce heat to medium and let the broth simmer for 5 minutes so the peppercorns release their oils. This builds the intensity of the 'má-là' sensation that makes malatang addictive.
- 3
Step 3: While broth simmers, prepare your add-ins: slice vegetables, tofu, mushrooms, or any protein you have on hand. Korean malatang is all about customization — this is where you control the heat level.
- 4
Step 4: Carefully add your ingredients to the simmering broth in batches, starting with harder items (carrots, potatoes) first, then softer items (mushrooms, leafy greens). Each item cooks in 2-5 minutes.
- 5
Step 5: Taste the broth after 3-4 minutes of cooking and adjust heat by adding more chili crisp if needed. Serve in individual bowls with the broth and strained ingredients, letting everyone customize their spice level like true malatang fans do.
