Hot and Sour Soup is a beloved Chinese dish that balances savory, spicy, and tangy flavors. With its warming broth, fragrant spices, and wholesome ingredients, this soup is not only satisfying but also nourishing. Whether you’re looking to replicate restaurant-quality flavors or warm up on a cold day, this recipe is perfect for you.
Ingredients:
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup rice vinegar
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp white pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp sesame oil
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup firm tofu, diced
2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
Prepare the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Vegetables: Add the bamboo shoots and shiitake mushrooms, stirring for 2-3 minutes to soften.
Mix the Broth: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken or vegetable broth, rice vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, white pepper, and cayenne pepper until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
Simmer the Soup: Pour the broth mixture into the pot, bringing it to a boil. Lower the heat to medium-low, letting it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the soup thickens.
Finish the Soup: Stir in the sesame oil, beaten egg, diced tofu, and sliced green onions. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the egg is fully set, and the tofu is heated through.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra green onions or a drizzle of soy sauce, if desired.