Description
Hot and Sour Soup is a classic Chinese dish known for its bold, tangy flavors and spicy kick. Made with a rich broth, a mix of vegetables, mushrooms, tofu, and seasoned with soy sauce, vinegar, and white pepper, this comforting soup is both hearty and satisfying. Itโs quick to prepare and perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup shiitake or wood ear mushrooms, sliced
- 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, cut into thin strips
- 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp chili paste or chili oil (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1 tsp white pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth:ย In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth and water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add Vegetables:ย Stir in the mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and carrots. Let them simmer for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Season the Soup:ย Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, white pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- Add Tofu:ย Gently add the tofu strips to the soup and simmer for another 3-4 minutes.
- Thicken the Soup:ย Stir the cornstarch slurry to ensure it’s smooth, then slowly pour it into the soup while continuously stirring. Allow the soup to thicken slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the Eggs:ย Slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the soup while stirring gently to create silky egg ribbons.
- Finish with Flavor:ย Remove from heat, drizzle with sesame oil, and give it a final stir.
- Garnish and Serve:ย Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with green onions and cilantro if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Protein Boost:ย Add shredded chicken, pork, or shrimp for extra protein.
- Vegan Option:ย Use vegetable broth and skip the eggs for a vegan-friendly version.
- Adjust Spice Level:ย Add more chili paste or fresh chilies for an extra kick.
- Mushroom Swap:ย If you can’t find shiitake or wood ear mushrooms, button mushrooms work as a substitute.