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Hot and Sour Soup is a beloved dish that perfectly balances spicy and tangy flavors, making it a favorite in many Asian cuisines. This comforting soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a hearty meal. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or impress your guests with a flavorful starter, this Hot and Sour Soup recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup tofu, cubed
- 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons chili paste (adjust to taste)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium heat. This will serve as the flavorful base of your Hot and Sour Soup.
- Add Vegetables: Once boiling, add the sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and cubed tofu to the pot. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Season the Soup: Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. These ingredients will provide the signature hot and sour flavor profile that makes this soup so special.
- Thicken the Soup: Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the pot while stirring continuously. This will help thicken the soup to your desired consistency.
- Add Spice: Mix in the chili paste, adjusting the amount to suit your heat preference. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Incorporate the Egg: Slowly pour the beaten egg into the soup while stirring gently. This will create beautiful egg ribbons throughout the soup.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the chopped green onions. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
FAQs
What makes Hot and Sour Soup hot?
The heat in Hot and Sour Soup typically comes from chili paste or white pepper, giving it a spicy kick that balances the sourness from the vinegar.
Can I customize the ingredients in Hot and Sour Soup?
Absolutely! You can add or substitute vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers, and use different proteins like chicken or shrimp to suit your taste.
Is Hot and Sour Soup gluten-free?
To make Hot and Sour Soup gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
How can I store leftovers of Hot and Sour Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Can I freeze Hot and Sour Soup?
While you can freeze Hot and Sour Soup, it’s best to freeze it without the tofu and egg, as they may change in texture when thawed. Thaw and reheat gently before adding fresh tofu and egg.
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