Hot and Sour Soup – A Flavorful and Comforting Chinese Soup

Hot and Sour Soup is a popular Chinese dish that is beloved for its bold, tangy flavors and comforting warmth. This soup is easy to make at home, and the combination of ingredients creates a perfect balance of spicy, sour, and savory tastes. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or want to try a new Chinese dish, Hot and Sour Soup is a must-try recipe.

To make Hot and Sour Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 pound of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
  • 1/4 cup of soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup of rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
  • 1 cup of sliced shiitake mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup of canned bamboo shoots, drained and sliced
  • 1/2 cup of canned water chestnuts, drained and sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped scallions

Here is how to make Hot and Sour Soup:

  1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ginger and garlic, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and water chestnuts to the pot, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until smooth.
  4. Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, and bring to a simmer.
  5. Pour the soy sauce mixture into the pot, and stir to combine.
  6. Add the white pepper and red pepper flakes to the pot, and let the soup simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  7. Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the pot while stirring the soup gently.
  8. Add the cubed tofu to the soup, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.

Hot and Sour Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any time of year. With its bold and tangy flavors, it is sure to become a favorite in your Chinese recipe collection. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or want to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup, Hot and Sour Soup is a dish you won’t want to miss.