Name: Spicy & Tangy Hot & Sour Soup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or black vinegar for authentic flavor); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; ½ teaspoon white pepper (adjust for spice level); 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry); 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced (or wood ear mushrooms); ½ cup bamboo shoots, julienned; ½ cup firm tofu, cubed; 1 egg, lightly beaten; ½ teaspoon chili paste or Sichuan chili oil (optional, for heat); 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Hot and sour soup is a flavorful and aromatic Asian dish known for its perfect balance of spiciness and tanginess. Made with a rich broth, mushrooms, tofu, bamboo shoots, and eggs, this comforting soup is enhanced with soy sauce, vinegar, and white pepper. Often enjoyed as an appetizer, this dish is quick to make and bursting with bold flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Asian Flavors – The perfect combination of heat from white pepper and sourness from vinegar.
Quick and Easy – A restaurant-quality soup that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Customizable Ingredients – Adjust the spice, protein, and vegetables to your taste.
Healthy and Satisfying – Packed with nutritious ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, and eggs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken or vegetable broth
Shiitake mushrooms (or wood ear mushrooms)
Bamboo shoots (julienned)
Firm tofu (cubed)
Soy sauce
Rice vinegar or black vinegar
White pepper
Chili paste or chili oil (optional, for extra heat)
Cornstarch (for thickening)
Eggs (lightly beaten)
Green onions (for garnish)
Sesame oil

Directions

Prepare the Broth – In a pot, bring the broth to a simmer and add mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu.
Season the Soup – Stir in soy sauce, vinegar, white pepper, and chili paste if using.
Thicken the Soup – Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then slowly add to the soup while stirring.
Add the Eggs – Slowly drizzle in beaten eggs while stirring to create egg ribbons.
Final Touches – Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Meat Lover’s Version – Add shredded chicken or pork for extra protein.
Spicier Soup – Increase the chili paste or add fresh chili slices.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option – Use vegetable broth and replace eggs with a cornstarch slurry for thickness.
Extra Umami – Add dried shiitake mushroom soaking water for deeper flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating – Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Freezing – Not recommended, as the texture of tofu and eggs may change when thawed.

FAQs

What makes hot and sour soup hot?

White pepper and chili paste or chili oil provide the heat in this soup.

Can I use different mushrooms?

Yes, shiitake, wood ear, or button mushrooms all work well.

How do I make this soup less spicy?

Reduce the white pepper and omit the chili paste for a milder flavor.

What’s the best vinegar to use?

Chinese black vinegar is traditional, but rice vinegar is a great substitute.

Can I add noodles to this soup?

Yes, adding rice noodles or glass noodles makes it a heartier dish.

Why is my soup not thick enough?

Make sure to add enough cornstarch slurry and stir well while cooking.

Can I use fresh bamboo shoots?

Yes, but blanch them first to remove any bitterness.

Is hot and sour soup gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your vinegar is gluten-free.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, but add the eggs and cornstarch just before serving for the best texture.

What pairs well with hot and sour soup?

Serve with dumplings, spring rolls, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Hot and sour soup is a bold, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s quick and easy to make at home. With its perfect balance of spiciness and tanginess, this classic Asian soup is sure to satisfy your cravings. Try this simple recipe and enjoy a warm, delicious bowl anytime!