Dinner

Classic Hot and Sour Soup

Name: Classic Hot and Sour Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup firm or extra firm tofu, cubed; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or wood ear); 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, sliced; 1/3 cup carrots, diced; 1/3 cup green peas; 2 eggs, beaten; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 tablespoons water (for slurry); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon white pepper; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

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Classic Hot and Sour Soup is a delightful balance of flavors and textures that can warm your soul on a chilly day or provide a comforting meal anytime. This dish combines the heat of white pepper with the tanginess of rice vinegar, creating a harmonious blend that delights the senses. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or a quick weeknight dinner.

Why Make This Classic Hot and Sour Soup

There are countless reasons to whip up a steaming pot of Classic Hot and Sour Soup. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful – the rich umami from the mushrooms and soy sauce contrasts beautifully with the vinegar’s acidity. Plus, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients like tofu, vegetables, and protein from the eggs. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

This soup is also extremely versatile; you can customize it based on what you have on hand. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or a milder touch, adjusting the ingredient ratios can create the perfect bowl tailored to your taste. Furthermore, it’s quick to prepare, taking just under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.

How to Make Classic Hot and Sour Soup

Making Classic Hot and Sour Soup is straightforward and rewarding. Start by bringing the vegetable broth to a simmer. As the broth heats, a lovely aroma fills your kitchen, promising a delicious meal ahead. Layer in the mushrooms, bamboo shoots, carrots, and peas for a colorful presentation and flavorful depth. The tofu adds a creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the crunchy vegetables.

As you build the soup, remember that the key to its signature hot and sour flavor lies in the balance of white pepper and rice vinegar. Stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup, adding to its comforting consistency. Finally, drizzle in beaten eggs to create delightful ribbons in your bowl. This simple process creates a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Ingredients:

4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup firm or extra firm tofu, cubed
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or wood ear)
1/2 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
1/3 cup carrots, diced
1/3 cup green peas
2 eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 tablespoons water (for slurry)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Directions:

Bring vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and white pepper.
Add mushrooms, bamboo shoots, carrots, and peas. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Gently stir in tofu and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add to the pot. Stir until thickened.
Slowly drizzle in beaten eggs while stirring to create ribbons.
Finish with sesame oil. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (about 1.5 cups):

Calories: 180
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Sodium: 800mg

This soup is ideal for those looking to enjoy a flavorful, nutrient-rich meal without excessive calories.

How to Serve Classic Hot and Sour Soup

Classic Hot and Sour Soup excels as a starter or a centerpiece for a meal. Serve it in stone bowls for that authentic restaurant vibe! Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or crusty bread to soak up every last drop. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider rounding out the meal with spring rolls or dumplings for a delicious spread. This soup is fantastic for lunch the next day, as the flavors deepen over time.

How to Store Classic Hot and Sour Soup

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the soup as needed. For longer storage, freeze it in portioned containers for up to three months. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight.

Expert Tips for Perfect Classic Hot and Sour Soup

Choose Your Mushrooms Wisely: Shiitake mushrooms provide a deeper flavor, while wood ear mushrooms bring a unique texture. Feel free to mix both for a robust taste.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier soup, add a dash of chili oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance the heat without overwhelming the established flavors.
Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies! Bell peppers, baby corn, or bok choy can elevate the dish even further.

Delicious Variations

Vegetable Hot and Sour Soup: Omit the tofu and add more veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a lighter dish.
Meat Lovers’ Version: Enhance the soup by adding sliced cooked chicken or pork for added protein.
Miso Hot and Sour Soup: Add a tablespoon of miso paste to the broth for a richer umami flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! This recipe already uses vegetable broth and tofu, making it naturally vegetarian. Ensure any additional ingredients you use, such as soy sauce, are also vegetarian.
Can I substitute the tofu?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use tofu, cooked chicken or shrimp works as a tasty alternative, or you could leave it out completely for a lighter soup.
How can I add more heat?
If you like your soup extra spicy, increase the white pepper, or add fresh diced chili peppers or chili oil when serving for a flavorful kick.

Conclusion

Making Classic Hot and Sour Soup at home is a fulfilling experience that brings together a perfect medley of flavors and textures. Not only is this dish hearty and satisfying, but it’s also nourishing and easy to prepare. We encourage you to try your hand at this beloved recipe! You’ll impress your family and friends with a bowl of this delightful soup. So gather your ingredients, bring some love into the kitchen, and get cooking! We’d love to hear how yours turns out, so don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations!