Irresistible Hot and Sour Soup Recipe for Comforting Flavors

Hot and Sour Soup is a delightful explosion of flavors that dances on your taste buds. The vibrant mix of spices, tangy vinegar, and zesty peppers creates a warm embrace that wraps you in comfort. Imagine slurping up a steaming bowl, the aroma wafting through the air and teasing your senses.

I still remember the first time I tackled this recipe. My kitchen transformed into a mini Asian bistro, and as my family gathered around the table, their eyes lit up with anticipation. Hot and Sour Soup makes for an ideal dish on chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

I once made this soup for a family gathering, and everyone couldn’t get enough of it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Chicken or Tofu: Choose boneless chicken breast or firm tofu for protein; both soak up flavor beautifully.

• Mushrooms: Fresh shiitake mushrooms add depth; dried ones can work too if soaked properly.

• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness without sacrificing flavor.

• Rice Vinegar: This adds the perfect tang; adjust based on how hot or sour you like it.

• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best to keep the dish balanced.

• Cornstarch: Essential for thickening the soup; mix with water before adding to avoid lumps.

• Chili Oil: A drizzle of chili oil gives an extra kick; adjust based on spice tolerance.

• Spring Onions: These add freshness; slice them thinly for garnish right before serving.

• Eggs: Whisked eggs create beautiful ribbons in the soup; beat them just before adding them in.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping chicken or tofu into bite-sized pieces while slicing mushrooms and spring onions. Gather all other ingredients to streamline your cooking process. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.

Cook Your Base: In a large pot over medium heat, combine vegetable broth and soy sauce. Bring it to a gentle simmer while enjoying the savory aroma filling your kitchen.

Add Veggies and Protein: Toss in sliced mushrooms and chicken or tofu into the simmering broth. Cook until everything is tender—about 5-7 minutes should do it!

Create That Signature Flavor: Stir in rice vinegar and chili oil according to your taste preference. The balance between hot and sour should start to awaken your senses now.

Thicken It Up: Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly pour it into the soup while stirring constantly until you achieve your desired thickness—this takes about 1-2 minutes.

Add Eggs: Reduce heat slightly before drizzling whisked eggs into the soup, stirring gently to create beautiful ribbons. Watch those golden strands dance through your pot!

Serve immediately with spring onions sprinkled on top for that extra pop of color. Enjoy this comforting bowl of Hot and Sour Soup that warms both heart and soul!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your ingredients: chop vegetables, slice tofu, and mix sauce ingredients. Cook the mushrooms first, then add the other veggies followed by broth for a harmonious blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Hot and Sour Soup by adding proteins like shrimp or chicken, swapping tofu for meat, or tweaking the spice levels to suit your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat to keep flavors intact without overcooking.

I remember the first time I made Hot and Sour Soup for my friends; they were blown away by how vibrant and flavorful it was! We devoured every last drop and ended up sharing stories late into the night.

FAQ

What is Hot and Sour Soup?

Hot and Sour Soup is a traditional Chinese soup known for its spicy and tangy flavor profile.

Can I make Hot and Sour Soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth and omit any animal proteins for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I thicken my Hot and Sour Soup?

You can thicken it by adding cornstarch mixed with cold water during cooking for a silky texture.