This Hot and Sour Soup balances the perfect combination of spicy heat and tangy flavor, delivering a delightful kick with every bite. The richness of the mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots is complemented by the silky texture of the egg ribbons that float gracefully in the broth. The soup is further enhanced with the fragrant touch of sesame oil and garnished with fresh green onions and cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Whether you’re enjoying this dish as a quick lunch or as part of a cozy dinner, Hot and Sour Soup brings comfort and warmth to any occasion. Its bold flavors are perfect for those who love a little spice in their lives, and it’s an easy recipe that you can adjust to your preferred level of heat. Serve it with some steamed rice, and you’ve got a delicious meal in no time.
Full Recipe:
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6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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1/2 cup dried shiitake mushrooms
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1/2 teaspoon white pepper
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1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to your heat preference)
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200g firm tofu, sliced into strips
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1/2 cup bamboo shoots, julienned
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1/4 cup wood ear mushrooms, shredded
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2 tablespoons cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
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2 eggs, beaten
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2 tablespoons sesame oil
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2-3 green onions, chopped
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Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions:
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Soak dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water for 15 minutes. Drain and slice them.
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In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
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Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, white pepper, and chili paste, and stir to combine.
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Add bamboo shoots, wood ear mushrooms, and soaked shiitake mushrooms. Simmer for 5 minutes.
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Stir in tofu and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
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Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry and add it to the soup, stirring until the soup thickens slightly.
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Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the soup while stirring gently to form egg ribbons.
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Remove from heat and stir in sesame oil.
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Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Hot and Sour Soup: A Flavorful Delight from Chinese Cuisine
Hot and Sour Soup is a staple in Chinese cuisine, renowned for its bold, aromatic flavors. This dish is the perfect balance of spicy heat and tangy sourness, offering a unique and satisfying experience for your taste buds. Originating from the Sichuan and Jiangsu provinces of China, this soup has become popular across the world for its boldness and complexity. It combines a rich broth with a variety of ingredients, often including tofu, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and sometimes meat, creating a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor.
The Flavors of Hot and Sour Soup
What sets Hot and Sour Soup apart from other soups is the harmonious blend of its two main flavor profiles: spiciness and sourness. The spicy element is typically introduced through chili paste or white pepper, while the sourness comes from rice vinegar or sometimes even pickled vegetables. This combination creates a dynamic, bold taste that can be adjusted according to individual preferences, making it both a versatile and comforting dish.
The richness of the broth adds a deep umami flavor, often enhanced by soy sauce and sometimes mushroom stock. The addition of tofu adds a smooth, creamy texture, which contrasts beautifully with the crunchy bamboo shoots and wood ear mushrooms. Together, these elements create a soup that’s vibrant, hearty, and nourishing.
Cultural Significance of Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and Sour Soup holds an important place in Chinese cuisine, with its roots deeply embedded in the country’s rich culinary history. The soup is a beloved dish in Chinese households and restaurants, often served as an appetizer in banquets or meals. It reflects the Chinese culinary principle of achieving balance—both in terms of flavor and nutrition.
In Chinese medicine, foods with hot and cold properties are believed to have specific health benefits. Hot and Sour Soup is thought to have a balancing effect on the body, especially in the colder months. The heat from the chili peppers stimulates circulation, while the sourness from the vinegar aids digestion, making this dish not only flavorful but also functional. This combination of nourishment and taste has made Hot and Sour Soup a go-to choice for many.
Different Variations of Hot and Sour Soup
One of the beautiful aspects of Hot and Sour Soup is its adaptability. While the traditional version includes ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots, many variations exist depending on the region and personal preferences. Some versions might incorporate meat, such as pork or chicken, to add richness and protein. In some places, the soup is made spicier or milder, depending on the diner’s taste.
For example, in Sichuan cuisine, Hot and Sour Soup is typically much spicier, with the addition of Sichuan peppercorns to provide a numbing heat alongside the traditional spiciness. In contrast, other regions may opt for a more delicate flavor profile, focusing more on the sourness and subtle spices.
In addition to meat-based versions, there are also vegetarian takes on Hot and Sour Soup. Tofu remains a common ingredient in these variations, providing a rich, soft texture that complements the crunchy vegetables and mushrooms. Some recipes even omit certain ingredients like bamboo shoots or wood ear mushrooms and substitute them with others like carrots or baby corn, giving the soup a more personalized touch.
Health Benefits of Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and Sour Soup is not just a delight to the taste buds—it’s also packed with health benefits. The combination of ingredients in the soup offers a wealth of nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a light yet satisfying meal. The mushrooms provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, which support overall health. Tofu, a great source of plant-based protein, is another key component that contributes to the soup’s nutritional profile.
The spicy elements of the soup, particularly the chili paste or white pepper, can boost metabolism and promote digestion. Chili peppers are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in reducing muscle pain. Meanwhile, the vinegar in the soup helps with digestion and can act as a natural detoxifier for the body. The addition of green onions and fresh cilantro as garnishes offers a fresh, zesty contrast, and their vitamins contribute further to the dish’s health benefits.
Serving Suggestions for Hot and Sour Soup
Hot and Sour Soup can be served as a standalone dish or paired with other items for a more substantial meal. It is often enjoyed with a bowl of steamed rice or noodles, allowing you to soak up the delicious broth. You can serve it as an appetizer before a main course, or as a comforting meal during cold weather.
The soup’s versatility means it can be customized to suit different dietary needs. For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit any meat, making it a hearty and satisfying dish without compromising on flavor. For a gluten-free option, ensure the soy sauce is tamari-based, which is naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion: Why Hot and Sour Soup is a Must-Try
Hot and Sour Soup is a must-try dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and comforting, hearty meals. Its balance of spicy and sour elements, combined with its health benefits and versatility, makes it an ideal dish for a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional version or experimenting with variations, this soup is sure to provide a satisfying culinary experience.
Its rich cultural history and ability to be customized make Hot and Sour Soup a perfect addition to any meal plan. So, whether you’re craving something spicy and warming, or simply looking for a delicious and nutritious dish to add to your rotation, Hot and Sour Soup is a flavorful and satisfying choice that won’t disappoint.