Hot and Sour Soup is a beloved dish that showcases the perfect balance of spicy and tangy flavors, making it a comforting yet invigorating choice for any meal. This delicious soup is characterized by its rich broth, filled with a medley of ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots, all simmered to perfection. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a flavorful pick-me-up, this hot and sour soup recipe will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This hot and sour soup recipe is not only bursting with flavor but is also incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a quick dish that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The balance of heat from white pepper and the tang from vinegar creates a harmonious flavor profile that suits a variety of palates. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe that can easily accommodate different dietary needs, making it a fantastic addition to your meal rotation.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your hot and sour soup, consider these tips:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh mushrooms and bamboo shoots will provide more depth than canned options.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of white pepper. Start with a small amount and add more to your liking.
- For a richer broth, you can add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil for an umami boost.
- If you want a thicker soup, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the broth as it simmers.
Make Ahead Tips
If you’re looking to save time, consider prepping some ingredients ahead:
- Chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
- The broth can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use, which enhances the flavor as it rests.
- If you plan to make a large batch, portion the soup into containers and refrigerate or freeze for easy meals throughout the week.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your hot and sour soup to your taste:
- Swap out the mushrooms for other varieties, such as shiitake or enoki, for different textures.
- For a heartier soup, add shredded chicken or shrimp.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
- Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider or balsamic, for a unique twist.
How to Serve
To serve your hot and sour soup, ladle it into deep bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro for a pop of color. Consider serving it with a side of steamed jasmine rice or spring rolls to complement the flavors. For an authentic touch, drape a few crispy wontons on top for added crunch.
Pairing Suggestions
For a delightful pairing, consider serving your hot and sour soup with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced green tea or ginger ale would complement the soup beautifully. For dessert, a light mango pudding or coconut milk jelly would round out the meal perfectly.
How to Store
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so slowly on the stovetop to preserve the flavors and textures.
Equipment Needed
You will need:
- A large pot or Dutch oven for making the soup.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- A whisk for mixing cornstarch into the broth.
Alternatives: If you don’t have a Dutch oven, any heavy-bottomed pot will work just fine.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version of this hot and sour soup, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the eggs. Use tofu as your protein source. To make it gluten-free, ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your vinegar is gluten-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the winter months, consider adding hearty vegetables such as carrots and kale to the soup. During summer, fresh corn and bell peppers can add sweetness and crunch. You can also use seasonal herbs like basil or mint for a fresh finish.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I substitute the tofu? Yes, you can use shredded chicken, tempeh, or even leave it out for a lighter soup.
- How long does it take to make? The entire process takes about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
- Can I use store-bought broth? Absolutely! Store-bought broth can save time and still yield delicious results.
- What if I don’t have white pepper? You can use black pepper as a substitute, keeping in mind it will slightly change the flavor profile.
How To Make hot and sour soup recipe
Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and Sour Soup is a beloved dish that showcases the perfect balance of spicy and tangy flavors, making it a comforting yet invigorating choice for any meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
- 1 cup firm tofu, cubed
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon white pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and bamboo shoots to the pot and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cubed tofu, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and white pepper. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the soup while stirring continuously until the soup thickens slightly.
- If using, gently pour in the beaten eggs in a thin stream while stirring the soup to create silky strands.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 424Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 15gCholesterol 220mgSodium 744mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 44g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making hot and sour soup at home is not only rewarding but also a delightful way to explore bold flavors in your cooking. With its customizable nature and quick preparation time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal, this comforting soup is perfect for any occasion. Embrace the adventure of cooking, and enjoy every spoonful of your delicious creation!
