A Guide to Wagyu Shabu-Shabu: What You Need to Know
Wagyu beef is a deliciously marbled type of beef that comes from Japanese cows that are raised using a unique method. One popular cut of Wagyu is shabu-shabu–however, not everyone knows what shabu-shabu is.
Shabu-shabu is a delicious version of hotpot with wagyu beef and can be served with other accompaniments. Keep reading to learn more about this dish, what makes this cut of meat special, and other valuable information.
What is Shabu-Shabu?
Shabu-shabu Wagyu is a specific type of meat used in the shabu-shabu iteration of Hotpot. The meat is sliced paper thin and served with a hot broth, which individuals utilize to cook the meat with veggies and other accompaniments. Shabu-shabu is a variation of hotpot consisting of meat and vegetables cooked and swirled in broth.
Shabu-shabu's ingredients, from the meats to the veggies, are served raw with a pot of broth. Individuals cook them as they go, which makes for an enjoyable and interactive experience. It’s like a form of fondue where savory ingredients are the primary aspect of the meal.
Often, the ingredients in shabu-shabu are customized to meet individual tastes. Wagyu shabu-shabu contains wagyu meat.
What is the Difference Between Shabu-Shabu and Hotpot?
Shabu-shabu is a unique name, but the dish is one of many versions of hotpot available. They typically go with each other. However, there are some significant characteristics that separate the two.
Hotpot is the general name of the dish, which involves taking ingredients and cooking them in boiling broth. The term is used across Asia and can refer to several dish options in various countries with similar techniques.
On the other hand, shabu-shabu is a specific type of Japanese hotpot that involves swishing the meat in the boiling broth. It is also more customizable than many forms of hotpot.
At its core, shabu-shabu is simply another version of hotpot. However, it is of Japanese origin and is a unique method of cooking wagyu meat and veggies.
What Makes Shabu-Shabu Special?
Some individuals will always choose shabu-shabu, and other hotpots, over other forms of eating out. For those who have never heard of the experience, it might seem strange. However, there are many ways shabu-shabu stands out in a crowd of eating experiences.
Here are some of the most common reasons people love shabu-shabu:
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It’s a communal experience: When enjoying shabu-shabu, you get to sit around a table and enjoy the meal and cooking experience together.
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It’s customizable: Shabu-shabu allows you to swap in various veggies and proteins for an experience that will benefit everyone at the table.
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It’s DIY: The individuals eating the meal get to cook it, making easy to cook meat to your own specifications (i.e. rare vs well done)
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It’s fresh: Shabu-shabu is well-known for providing fresh ingredients that are lighter and healthier than what you would find on most menus.
Shabu-shabu, especially the iteration with Wagyu, is an experience you will never forget. When you have high-quality ingredients and the right atmosphere and friends, it makes all the difference.
How Do You Eat Shabu-Shabu?
Shabu-shabu can be intimidating to those who have never had it before, especially individuals who are new to the hotpot experience. Luckily, it’s simple to get the hang of shabu-shabu and enjoy wagyu and other delicious accompaniments.
Here are the fundamentals of enjoying shabu-shabu:
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Wait for the brother to simmer: The broth will first come to a boil and then must be brought down to a simmer. Don't drink the broth before cooking.
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Cook the veggies: Add the veggies first, starting with the hard and moving to softer veggies.
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Cook the meat: While the veggies cook, pick up one piece of meat at a time and swirl it in the broth until cooked. Repeat until all the meat is done.
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Dip and enjoy: Dip the veggies and meat in the provided sauces, add it to a bed of rice, and enjoy your meal.
You now have a savory, delicious plate of steaming veggies and meat. The accompaniments served, and cooking style can vary depending on your restaurant location. However, these are the basics you should see at more shabu-shabu hotpot spots. For the best experience, look for wagyu shabu-shabu with marbled cuts of meat for delicious bites every single time.
What Part of the Cow is Wagyu Shabu-Shabu?
There are specific areas of the cow cut for wagyu shabu-shabu, especially since the slice of meat added to the pot is so thin. The location of the cut will influence the flavor, texture, and general experience at hotpot.
Some of the most common cuts for wagyu shabu-shabu include the following:
All are excellent. Ultimately, it’s up to you to experiment with Wagyu and determine which cut best matches your flavor preferences.
Can You Use Shabu-Shabu Wagyu for Philly Cheesesteak?
Maybe you like shabu-shabu but also want to know if there’s something else you can make with the thin slices of meat. For those who want something different with their thin wagyu, consider using any leftover meat to make a Philly Cheesesteak. The iconic city dish works perfectly with the hotpot cut.
When using shabu-shabu wagyu, each bite in your Philly Cheesesteak will be soft and easy to enjoy. Plus, it makes the cooking process much simpler. The meat pairs perfectly with a soft hoagie bun, sliced provolone cheese, and sauteed onions. There are endless ways to use leftover shabu-shabu wagyu.
Where Can You Find Quality Wagyu?
Wagyu is one of the trickiest meats to locate if you want quality, especially at a local grocery store or butcher. Unfortunately, many online stores aren’t super reliable. If you want to use quality wagyu for your shabu-shabu, where can you invest in top-notch wagyu beef products and beyond?
If you want excellent wagyu and other accompaniments for your shabu-shabu experience, consider the offerings available from Kolikof Caviar & Gourmet. You can have your wagyu delivered right to your doorstep, cold and fresh. It’s ready to be sliced and prepared for an unforgettable shabu-shabu hotpot experience with friends and loved ones.