Hot And Sour Soup Recipe

Hot and sour soup recipe is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its balanced combination of heat and tanginess. With its rich broth, a variety of vegetables, and hearty proteins, this soup is a perfect option when you crave something both warming and vibrant. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it as an appetizer or a light meal, hot and sour soup can be made easily at home with a few basic ingredients.

A Brief History of Hot and Sour Soup:

Hot and sour soup originates from China, specifically from the Sichuan province, where bold flavors are common in the local cuisine. The dish is a staple in many Chinese households and restaurants worldwide, but it has different variations depending on the region. While the Chinese version is usually made with ingredients like tofu, wood ear mushrooms, and vinegar, you’ll also find versions in Thailand and other Asian countries that incorporate different spices and herbs. Despite these variations, the essence of the soup—a balance of spicy heat and tangy vinegar—remains the same.

Hot And Sour Soup Recipe

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Hot and sour soup originates from China, specifically from the Sichuan province, where bold flavors are common in the local cuisine. The dish is a staple in many Chinese households and restaurants around the world, but it has different variations depending on the region.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Chinese

Servings 4

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Medium-sized pot
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Small bowl (for cornstarch mixture)
• Ladle

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons of water)
• 1 tablespoon chili paste or sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 cup firm tofu (cubed)
• ½ cup mushrooms (shiitake or wood ear mushrooms, sliced)
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• ½ cup bamboo shoots (thinly sliced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
• Pinch of sugar (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

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Instructions

 

• Prepare the Broth:

  Start by heating the chicken or vegetable broth in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Once it starts to simmer, add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir gently to combine.
• Add the Aromatics:

  Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, infusing the broth with their flavors.
• Incorporate Vegetables:

  Add the sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu cubes to the broth. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the tofu is warmed through.
• Adjust the Flavor:

  Mix in the chili paste or sriracha to give the soup its signature heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference. Then, sprinkle the ground white pepper and add a pinch of sugar if you want to balance the flavors.
• Thicken the Soup:

  In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup while stirring continuously. The soup will begin to thicken slightly.
• Add the Egg:

  Using a whisk or fork, gently stir the soup in one direction. While stirring, slowly drizzle in the beaten egg to create delicate egg ribbons throughout the soup. Cook for an additional minute.
• Garnish and Serve:

  Remove the soup from heat and ladle it into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Video

Keyword Hot And Sour Soup Recipe

Similar Recipes:

– Egg Drop Soup: Another popular Chinese soup with delicate egg ribbons in a savory broth.
– Tom Yum Soup: A Thai soup known for its hot and sour flavors, made with lemongrass, lime juice, and chili.
– Miso Soup: A Japanese staple that’s lighter in flavor but equally comforting, made with miso paste, tofu, and seaweed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hot And Sour Soup Recipe:

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip any meat-based ingredients.

2. How can I adjust the spice level?

You can add more or less chili paste or sriracha depending on your heat preference.

3. Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Yes, you can use any mushrooms you like, but shiitake or wood ear mushrooms are most traditional.

4. What can I substitute for tofu?

If you don’t like tofu, you can use cooked chicken, pork, or even shrimp as a substitute.

5. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

6. Can I freeze hot and sour soup?

Yes, but the texture of the tofu might change. If freezing, leave out the egg and tofu, and add them fresh when reheating.

7. What’s the purpose of the cornstarch in this recipe?

Cornstarch helps to thicken the soup and gives it a slightly glossy finish.

8. Can I skip the egg?

Yes, the egg is optional. If you prefer a vegan version, simply omit it from the recipe.

Conclusion:

Hot and sour soup is a perfect balance of heat, tang, and savory goodness, making it a delightful choice for any meal. With just a few ingredients and a simple process, you can enjoy this restaurant favorite right at home. Whether it’s a cold winter day or you’re craving a bold and comforting soup, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

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