Description
Craving a bold and flavorful soup? This Authentic Chinese Hot & Sour Soup is the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory! Packed with shiitake mushrooms, tofu, bamboo shoots, and a rich broth, this restaurant-quality soup is easy to make at home. Whether you enjoy it mild or extra spicy, this dish is perfect for a cozy meal.
✨ Save this recipe and try it tonight! Do you like your hot & sour soup spicy or mild? Let me know in the comments!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup Base:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Soup Filling:
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- ½ cup bamboo shoots, julienned
- ½ cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with ¼ cup water (slurry)
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth and water to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, white pepper, black pepper, sugar, and sesame oil. Stir well.
- Add the sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, tofu, and carrot. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously until the soup thickens.
- Reduce heat to low, then slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the soup while stirring gently to create egg ribbons.
- Simmer for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Notes
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap chicken broth for vegetable or mushroom broth and ensure your soy sauce and chili paste are plant-based.
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the white pepper and chili paste to make it milder or spicier.
- Get the Perfect Texture: Stir gently when adding the egg to create delicate egg ribbons, and add the cornstarch slurry gradually for ideal thickness.
- Storage Tip: Refrigerate for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth if needed.
- Customize It: Add shredded chicken, pork, or shrimp for extra protein, or make it low-carb by skipping the cornstarch.
🍜 Enjoy your homemade hot & sour soup! Don’t forget to pair it with spring rolls or dumplings for the ultimate meal!