Haidilao Introduces Guizhou Sour Soup Hotpot to Thailand: A Tangy Culinary Masterpiece

China’s rich culinary tapestry, woven from the diverse flavors of its regional cuisines, has carved out a place on the global stage, allowing food enthusiasts from across the world to savor authentic dishes reminiscent of those found in China. Among the many gastronomic adventures, Sichuan-style hotpot has notably captured the hearts of many in Thailand. Riding this wave of culinary popularity, Haidilao proudly presents a new sensation to the Thai palate: the Guizhou Sour Soup Hotpot. This offering is not just a novel flavor to tantalize taste buds but also an auspicious debut for Guizhou cuisine in Thailand. By introducing the Guizhou Sour Soup base, Haidilao adds another gem to its international flavor portfolio, enriching diners’ experiences with the diverse wonders of Chinese cuisine.

The Ancient Craft of Guizhou Sour Soup in China

Guizhou Sour Soup (Gui Zhou Suan Tang Guo) hails from the southeastern provinces of China, particularly cherished by the Miao, Dong, and other ethnic groups. With a rich history spanning thousands of years, this traditional dish is a culinary artifact of cultural heritage. The defining characteristic of Guizhou Sour Soup is its zesty tanginess that dances on the palate, balanced by a subtle mineral saltiness, and supported by a rich, mellow texture.

Vibrantly red and visually enticing, the soup owes its tang to fermented tomatoes and chili peppers—a simple yet ingenious process where these ingredients are chopped, mixed with salt, and left to ferment naturally in sealed jars. The result is a bright, tantalizing, and aromatic soup base that stands out for its healthiness and originality.

Compared to the spiciness of Haidilao’s classic hotpot base, Guizhou’s fermented sour soup brings a fresh, sharp, and appetizing flavor, well-suited for health-conscious eaters. It appeals to a broad spectrum of age groups and meets family dining needs impeccably.

More than just its delectable taste, the Guizhou sour soup carries with it deep cultural connotations. Guizhou is a melting pot of various ethnic traditions, each contributing unique culinary practices. As a flag-bearer of Guizhou’s cuisine, sour soup epitomizes the collective culinary wisdom of these communities. Within Miao culture, sour soup is a staple not only of daily meals but also of communal gatherings, symbolizing family unity and hospitality. This flavorful soup mirrors Guizhou’s natural beauty and embodies a profound respect for nature and life itself. Bringing this cultural treasure to the world, Haidilao Thailand proudly names it “Guizhou Red Sour Soup.”

From Regional Delight to Global Fame

Guizhou sour soup, celebrated in China for its unique sour and fresh flavor, now takes a step onto the global culinary stage. Aligning naturally with the Thai preference for sour tastes, Haidilao has meticulously chosen high-quality ingredients to pair with the sour soup, promising an unforgettable dining experience for Thai patrons. Peppercorn beef tongue, with its aromatic spiciness, adds depth to the tangy broth, while tender beef slices enhance its fresh notes. The inclusion of seafood like scallops, prawns, and shrimp paste, along with vegetables such as bamboo shoots, sweet potato noodles, bean sprouts, and golden slices, ensures that each bite is a delightful surprise.

Innovative Localisation Strategy: The Key to Global Success

Operating globally under Superhi International, Haidilao commits to offering an exceptional dining experience by localizing its menu to resonate with the tastes of each country it serves. This strategy of customization has been instrumental in expanding Haidilao’s culinary horizons. In the first half of 2024 alone, Tehai International launched over 500 new products, catering to diverse regional preferences. These include Pepper Chicken Soup base and Golden Sour Fish soup base in East Asia, Saffron Chicken Soup base in the UAE, and Spicy Lamb Scorpion hotpot in the UK.

Having established its presence in Thailand in 2019, Haidilao quickly won hearts with its unique service philosophy and excellent dining experience, promoting the idea that “Food is the simplest and most effective way of cultural exchange.” By introducing the Tom Yum soup base and tailoring dishes and condiments to suit local preferences, Haidilao has successfully married its brand’s essence with Thai tastes, offering a novel culinary experience to its customers. In terms of service, the brand has adapted its model and staff training to fit into the local culture, overcoming language and cultural barriers and establishing a strong foothold in the Thai market.

With the introduction of the Guizhou Sour Soup base, Haidilao further enriches its menu, presenting an authentic Chinese flavor that resonates remarkably with the traditional Thai palate. Haidilao aspires that this traditional Chinese dish will act as a bridge, enhancing the culinary connection between China and Thailand. In a world that grows more interconnected by the day, Haidilao will continue to explore and promote regional Chinese delicacies on the global stage, inviting food enthusiasts everywhere to savor the profound heritage and unique charm of Chinese cuisine.