Natasha Pickowicz, Hot-Pot Alchemist

The New Yorker

by Charlotte Goddu

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Natasha Pickowicz, a James Beard-nominated chef and cookbook author, has found her true calling in the simple yet satisfying art of hot pot. Known for her elaborate desserts in her first cookbook, *More Than Cake*, Pickowicz made a bold pivot with her latest book, *Everyone Hot Pot*, which celebrates the communal joy of soup-centered meals. While some might shy away from such a drastic change, Pickowicz embraces it with enthusiasm, calling hot pot her “secret to happiness.” She finds fulfillment in sharing this versatile and accessible cooking tradition, which requires minimal preparation but maximum connection. Pickowicz’s journey to hot pot began during her childhood, when she enjoyed the dish at home rather than in restaurants. As an adult, living in a Bushwick loft and working as a pastry chef, she hosted elaborate soup feasts featuring thinly sliced meats, offal, and bones supplied by her butcher boyfriend. Her love for hot pot deepened after moving to Long Island City, where she shopped at H Mart—a store reminiscent of the 99 Ranch Market she frequented as a child in San Diego. The wide aisles and array of ingredients evoke a sense of nostalgia, inspiring her to experiment with new flavors and combinations. Hot pot, Pickowicz explains, is a meal that adapts effortlessly to various needs—whether vegan, budget-friendly, or meant for a large group. While she enjoys the occasional indulgence of luxurious ingredients like king crab and ribeye, she emphasizes that hot pot can also be simple and affordable. Her go-to sauce, a blend of white sesame and cumin, reflects her preference for control while allowing guests to personalize their experience. She finds joy in observing how people naturally embrace “effortlessly Chinese” gestures, like offering food to others, which highlights the communal spirit of hot pot. For Pickowicz, hot pot is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural bridge that challenges stereotypes and fosters connection. By sharing her passion for this tradition, she hopes to bring people together, regardless of their background. Her approachable yet thoughtful take on hot pot makes it accessible to everyone, proving that simplicity can be deeply fulfilling.

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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/23/2026