Hot and sour soup is a classic Chinese dish known for its perfect balance of spicy heat and tangy flavors. This authentic version captures the essence of the traditional recipe, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This authentic hot and sour soup is a harmonious blend of spicy, sour, and savory notes, making it a flavorful appetizer or light meal. Packed with mushrooms, tofu, and a variety of vegetables, it provides a hearty and nutritious option for those seeking meatless dishes.
The recipe is straightforward, requiring simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, making it accessible even for novice cooks. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine or exploring new flavors, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup shiitake or button mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, julienned
- 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, combine the vegetable broth and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add Vegetables and Tofu
Once the broth is boiling, add the sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, tofu cubes, and julienned carrots. Stir well and reduce the heat to medium. Let the soup simmer for about5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld together.
Season the Soup
Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste or sriracha, and ground white pepper. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding salt or more soy sauce for saltiness, more vinegar for acidity, or additional chili paste for heat.
Thicken the Soup
Give the cornstarch and water mixture a quick stir to recombine, then slowly pour it into the soup while continuously stirring. This will prevent lumps from forming. Continue to simmer the soup for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, achieving a silky consistency.
Finish with Aromatics
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the sesame oil, which adds a rich, nutty aroma to the soup. Ladle the hot and sour soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro, if using.
Serve Immediately
Enjoy the soup while it’s hot. It pairs well with steamed rice or as a starter to a larger meal featuring other Chinese-inspired dishes.
Tips and Variations
- Mushroom Variety: While shiitake mushrooms offer a deep, earthy flavor, you can substitute or combine them with other varieties like cremini or oyster mushrooms based on availability and preference.
- Adjusting Heat Levels: Customize the spiciness by varying the amount of chili paste or sriracha. For a milder version, reduce the quantity; for extra heat, consider adding freshly chopped chili peppers.
- Vinegar Choices: Rice vinegar provides a subtle acidity, but you can experiment with black vinegar or white vinegar for a different tangy profile.
- Protein Additions: For added protein, consider incorporating edamame or chickpeas. Ensure they are cooked before adding them to the soup.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make this soup suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
This vegetarian hot and sour soup offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a comforting dish for any occasion. Its simplicity and versatility allow for easy customization, ensuring it can cater to various taste preferences and dietary needs.
Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive starter for guests, this soup delivers both taste and satisfaction.
