Yin-Yang Hot Pot (Heavy Gauge Stainless Steel)

This stainless-steel "yin yang" hot pot is custom made for The Mala Market in Sichuan. Unlike other steel hot pots found in the U.S., this one is made from heavy-gauge, triple-layer stainless steel and weighs in at almost 5 pounds.

This hot pot features a hammered-steel edge around the top of the pot and decorative "ear" handles that are securely bolted to the sides. It is brushed stainless on the inside and highly polished on the outside. Its bottom is induction-compatible magnetic steel, so it can be used on induction or gas heat sources.

The securely welded yin-yang divider separates the pot so it can be used for two different soups, which is popular in Chengdu and Chongqing style hot pot. One side is for the numbing and spicy mala broth and the other side is for a mild mushroom, herbal or bone broth.

The soup bowl has a diameter of 13 inches, and each side of the pot holds 8 cups (about 2 liters) of soup broth, for 4 liters total. Considered a medium pot, it serves 4 people comfortably and is recommended for up to 6 people. 

Elegant and unique yet tough, this hotpot is built to last a lifetime without discoloration, dents, wobbly handles or leakage. 

Recommended by NYT's Wirecutter: "A gorgeous split hot pot: This beautiful pot is pricey, but for any household that makes a communal meal often—or entertains with it—this piece is a worthwhile splurge."

See the Mala Market recipe for mala hot pot from scratch here.

Purchase a readymade mala hot pot soup base from Chengdu here. 

See a report on hot pot as it's eaten in Chengdu here.

Dimensions: 19 x 15 x 4.5 inches; holds 4 liters; serves up to 6 people