Delight your senses with the exquisite flavors of Hot and Sour Soup, a beloved Asian classic that tantalizes the taste buds with its perfect balance of heat and tanginess. This aromatic soup, rich in umami and complexity, is a comforting bowl of warmth that invites you on a culinary journey.

Crafted with a flavorful broth, this soup features an ensemble of ingredients that contribute to its distinctive character. Sliced shiitake mushrooms, delicate tofu, bamboo shoots, and water chestnuts create a harmonious medley, while rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic infuse the broth with depth and richness. The addition of white pepper and chili oil imparts the signature heat that makes Hot and Sour Soup so captivating.

For those who prefer a heartier texture, a cornstarch slurry can be added to thicken the soup, enhancing its comforting appeal. The crowning touch comes with the slow incorporation of beaten eggs, creating silky ribbons that add both visual allure and a luxurious mouthfeel.

As you ladle this steaming elixir into bowls, the vibrant aroma of the soup is complemented by the freshness of chopped green onions and cilantro, offering a burst of color and herbaceous notes. Each spoonful carries the complex symphony of flavors, from the savory umami of mushrooms to the bright acidity of rice vinegar, leaving your palate satisfied and invigorated.

With approximately 150-200 calories per serving, this Hot and Sour Soup is not only a sensory delight but also a nutritious option that nourishes both body and soul. Whether enjoyed as a starter to a larger meal or as a stand-alone dish, this culinary masterpiece promises to transport you to the comforting embrace of Asian kitchens, where the art of balancing flavors is a true culinary art form. Warm your senses and savor the complexity of Hot and Sour Soup, a timeless classic that brings joy with every spoonful.

Hot and Sour Soup

Ingredients:

  • 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup sliced tofu
  • 1/4 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
  • 1/4 cup sliced water chestnuts
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili oil (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 2 beaten eggs
  • Chopped green onions and cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Broth:
    • In a pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat.
  2. Add Ingredients:
    • Add shiitake mushrooms, tofu, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, white pepper, and chili oil to the simmering broth.
  3. Thicken Soup (Optional):
    • If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the soup and let it simmer until thickened.
  4. Add Beaten Eggs:
    • Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the soup while stirring gently to create silky egg ribbons.
  5. Adjust Seasonings:
    • Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings, adding more soy sauce, rice vinegar, or chili oil if desired.
  6. Serve:
    • Ladle the hot and sour soup into bowls, garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Information (approximate, per serving):

  • Calories: ~150-200
  • Protein: ~10g
  • Fat: ~8g
  • Carbohydrates: ~15g
  • Fiber: ~2g
  • Sugars: ~4g

Please note that the nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Adjustments can be made based on your dietary preferences and needs. Enjoy this Hot and Sour Soup as a flavorful and comforting dish, perfect for warming up on chilly days or satisfying your craving for a delicious and nutritious soup.