For ethnic cuisines, navigating the balance between authenticity and adaptation can be tricky. While there’s a strong urge to stay true to the original recipe, compromises have to be made to appeal to the local palate. But Jia, the founder of a Chinese sauce brand called Hotpot Queen, doesn’t want to play it safe and aspires to bring the boldest Sichuan flavors to Americans’ plates — from sandwich to ice cream. Besides the unapologetic spiciness and numbness, her sauce has a secret element that adds a kick — the love and passion passed down through her mom and generations of Chongqing women. 

In this episode, Lulu talks with Jia, the founder of Hotpot Queen, whose fiery personality tastes just like her sauces. You’ll hear about: 

• How do brands get the most out of Natural Products Expo West?
• What are the top organic food trends for 2023?
• What makes Hotpot Queen different from other hot sauce brands?
• Which foods pair surprisingly well with hot sauce?

Never want to miss an episode? Search for “dedicated lulu” on ⁠Apple Podcast⁠ or ⁠Spotify⁠, and subscribe to the show!

⁠Twitter⁠/⁠Instagram⁠: @dedicatedfm

Email: ⁠dedicatedfm2022@gmail.com⁠

Music Credits:

Arimura Taishi - Hot pot quartet 

Keep It Spicy!

Website: www.hotpotqueen.com

Instagram: @hotpotqueen