Hot and Sour Soup is a classic Chinese dish known for its comforting flavors of tangy broth, hearty ingredients, and aromatic spices. Here’s a simple recipe to help you make this flavorful soup at home:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup firm tofu, diced into small cubes
- 1/4 cup wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated and thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili paste or Sriracha sauce for added heat
Instructions:
- Prepare the Broth:
- In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat.
- Season the Broth:
- Add rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ground white pepper to the simmering broth. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Thicken the Soup:
- In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering broth while stirring continuously. Allow the soup to thicken slightly.
- Add Vegetables and Tofu:
- Stir in bamboo shoots, diced tofu, and wood ear mushrooms (if using). Simmer for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Add Beaten Eggs:
- Slowly pour the lightly beaten eggs into the soup while stirring gently in a circular motion. This will create ribbons of egg throughout the soup.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and additional pepper if needed. If you prefer a spicier soup, add chili paste or Sriracha sauce according to your preference.
- Serve Hot:
- Ladle the hot and sour soup into bowls and garnish with thinly sliced green onions.
Tips:
- Variations: Feel free to customize your hot and sour soup by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for additional protein and flavor.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can adjust the amount of cornstarch slurry used.
- Storage: Hot and Sour Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Hot and Sour Soup as a starter or a main dish, perfect for warming up on chilly days!