Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Authentic Chinese Hot & Sour Soup


  • Author: Christopher

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

  1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth and water to a gentle boil over medium heat.
  2. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, white pepper, black pepper, sugar, and sesame oil. Stir well.
  3. Add the sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, tofu, and carrot. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
  4. Slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously until the soup thickens.
  5. Reduce heat to low, then slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the soup while stirring gently to create egg ribbons.
  6. Simmer for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
  7. 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!