The Key to the Perfect Fall Soup Is in the (Spicy) Details

As temperatures start to drop, soup pots start heating up — and we can’t wait! Here’s a fun way to spice up your seasonal soup cravings. Inspired by the DIY style of Mongolian and Shabu Shabu hot pots, thinking backwards will create a festive, forward-thinking soup fiesta.

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Some say it’s all in the broth. There are a million ways to go with this one. From Asian and Thai to Italian or Mexican, your stock base is the starting point. In true DIY fashion, this is your foundation from where you build so make it a good one!

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Place your massive communal pot of piping hot broth in the center of your table. Surround it with a vast assortment of complimentary herbs, spices, and fixings for your guests to dole into their bowls. Think ginger, lemongrass, orange zest, scallions, tofu, beef, chicken, cabbage, anise, and don’t forget chili oils!  Your guests will be off to the races pairing together funky combinations and experimenting new tastes.

Photo: Thinkstock