Name: Delicious Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium preferred); 1 cup water; 1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms (fresh or rehydrated dried); 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into thin strips; 1 medium carrot, julienned; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or black vinegar for more authenticity); 1 teaspoon white pepper (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry); 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional); Salt to taste

If you’re searching for a soup that offers the perfect balance of spice and tang, look no further than this Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup. Packed with comforting ingredients and ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a delightful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Imagine enjoying a bowl of this distinctive soup on a cool evening – the rich, warm broth, the bite of the black vinegar, and the silky ribbons of egg all come together to create a wellness-boosting bowl that can rival any takeout option.

This soup is not just about flavors; it also boasts a plethora of health benefits. With key ingredients like tofu and mushrooms, it’s naturally vegetarian and rich in proteins, making it a satisfying meal all on its own. Whether you’re under the weather or simply looking for a quick yet hearty meal, this soup gives you that nourishing feeling you crave. So grab your favorite soup pot and let’s create this savory and satisfying dish!

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

Quick and Easy: Whip up this delightful soup in just 25 minutes.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein-rich tofu and nutrient-filled vegetables.
Authentic Taste: Enjoy the rich flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine right at home.
Customizable: Adjust spice levels and ingredients to suit your taste.
Comfort Food: Ideal for a cozy night in or a comforting meal need.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this wonderful soup recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and workspace. Start by gathering all your ingredients so that they are within reach. This will help streamline the cooking process, especially since this recipe comes together quite quickly.

A large soup pot is required, as you’ll need enough space for the broth and all the flavorful ingredients to mingle. A sharp knife and cutting board will also make quick work of slicing your vegetables and tofu. If you have them, prep bowls can help keep your ingredients organized and ready to add at a moment’s notice. Prepare your cornstarch slurry ahead of time by mixing the cornstarch and water; this will save you a step during cooking.

Ingredients

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
1 cup water
1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms (fresh or rehydrated dried)
1/2 cup bamboo shoots, thinly sliced
1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into thin strips
1 medium carrot, julienned
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or black vinegar for more authenticity)
1 teaspoon white pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by bringing your chosen broth (chicken or vegetable) along with water to a gentle boil in your large soup pot over medium heat. This foundational step is crucial since it helps dissolve the flavors and prepares your palette for the explosion of taste to come.

Step 2: Add the Veggies and Tofu

Once your broth is bubbling away, it’s time to introduce the heartier components of this soup. Add in the sliced shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, julienned carrots, and thin strips of tofu. Allow everything to simmer together for about 5 to 7 minutes. This simmering time allows all the ingredients to soften while infusing the broth with their rich flavors.

Step 3: Spice it Up

As your vegetables start to tenderize, mix in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, white pepper, and any optional chili oil for an extra kick. Let the mixture simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes; the perfect timing will ensure that every ingredient releases its full flavor potential.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

To achieve that perfect consistency, slowly pour in your cornstarch slurry while gently stirring the soup. This step is vital; the cornstarch will thicken the broth, making it hearty and luxurious, much like a restaurant-quality dish.

Step 5: Create Egg Ribbons

With the heat reduced to low, gently stir the soup in a circular motion and drizzle in the beaten eggs to form lovely ribbons. This cooking technique creates an elegant finish that adds both texture and visual appeal to your dish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, once the eggs are lightly cooked through, turn off the heat. Just before serving, enhance the flavor by drizzling in a touch of sesame oil and garnishing your soup with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy the wonderful medley of flavors!

Variations

Protein: Swap out tofu for chicken, shrimp, or even a meat alternative like tempeh for variety.
Vegetables: Incorporate other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or bok choy for added nutrition.
Spices: Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing chili oil as per your heat preference or explore different types of pepper.

Cooking Notes

For an authentic taste experience, using Chinese black vinegar can elevate the soup’s flavor profile.
Stir constantly when adding cornstarch slurry to prevent any lumps and achieve the desired consistency.
To ensure perfect egg ribbons, control your heat and pour the eggs in gradually while stirring softly.
Feel free to make it your own by playing around with ingredient quantities according to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this soup with steamed rice or crispy spring rolls for a complete meal.
Serve it alongside a light Asian salad to balance the bold flavors of the soup.

Tips

Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end to suit your preferences.
Prepare ingredients ahead of time for a quicker cooking process when you’re ready to enjoy the soup.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; simply reheat on the stove.
Experiment with garnishes like cilantro or chopped peanuts for an exciting twist!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 120
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 720mg
Sugar: 3g
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 10g

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, the soup can be made in advance. However, the eggs should be added just before serving for the best texture.

What can I substitute for tofu?

If you’re not a fan of tofu, consider substituting with chicken, shredded beef, or even a different plant protein like tempeh.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup can be gluten-free if you use tamari in place of soy sauce.

Can this soup be frozen?

While you can freeze the soup, it’s best to exclude the eggs. Freeze the base and add fresh eggs when reheating for optimal texture.

Conclusion

This Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup is a promise of warmth, flavor, and satisfaction. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also exceptionally healthy, making it an excellent choice for any day of the week. With a blend of nourishing ingredients and the chance to customize to your preference, it’s destined to become a go-to recipe in your household. Don’t hesitate to mix things up and try different variations, or double the recipe for a cozy gathering with family and friends. We would love to hear about your creations and any adjustments you made; feel free to share in the comments below. Enjoy the comforting goodness of this soup, and happy cooking!