"Hot pot" in Chinese is huǒguō (火锅), literally:
'fire pot'. It has a history of more than 1000 years, and
China is regarded as the home of hotpot. It is generally assumed that the
hotpot tradition came from Mongol warriors and horsemen who camped outside
and had dinner together circled around a pot on the fire – it was a way to
keep warm, while eating at the same time.
A big pot filled with simmering broth is placed at the middle of the
table, accompanied by plates of various meats, vegetables, noodles,
condiments, and dipping sauces. The ingredients are to be placed in the
broth, cooked, and then taken out and dipped into the chosen sauce before
eating.