Indulge in the vibrant world of hot and sour soup, a classic dish that marries the boldness of heat with a delightful tang. This soup is not only comforting but also invigorating, making it a favorite in many Asian cuisines. Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, this soup is sure to warm your heart and soul. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 cup tofu, diced
– 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 egg, beaten
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 1 teaspoon white pepper
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving of hot and sour soup contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 10g
– Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 12g
This nutritional value is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and bamboo shoots, and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tofu and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Mix in soy sauce and rice vinegar for seasoning.
5. Slowly add the cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly until the soup thickens.
6. Reduce heat and slowly pour in the beaten egg, stirring gently to create ribbons.
7. Add white pepper and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Remove from heat and stir in chopped green onions.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken or vegetable broth with mushroom broth for a vegetarian option. Tofu can be replaced with shredded chicken or shrimp for a non-vegetarian alternative. Feel free to adjust the vinegar and pepper levels to match your taste preferences.
Serving and Pairings
Hot and sour soup pairs well with steamed rice or crispy spring rolls. For a complete meal, serve alongside a side of stir-fried vegetables or dumplings.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover hot and sour soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a pot over medium heat until warmed through. It is not recommended to freeze this soup as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the tofu can make it too soft.
– Not stirring the cornstarch mixture can lead to lumps.
– Adding vinegar too early may diminish its flavor.
– Using too little broth can make the soup too thick.
– Forgetting to garnish can affect presentation.
Helpful Tips
– Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Allow the soup to cool before storing.
– Experiment with different vegetables for variety.
FAQs
What makes hot and sour soup spicy?
The heat in hot and sour soup primarily comes from white pepper, which adds a distinct flavor and spice level that can be adjusted to personal preference.
Can I make hot and sour soup vegetarian?
Yes, by using vegetable broth and omitting any meat or seafood, you can easily create a delicious vegetarian version of hot and sour soup.
How can I thicken my hot and sour soup?
Cornstarch mixed with water is commonly used to thicken hot and sour soup. Gradually add it to the boiling soup, stirring continuously until it reaches the desired consistency.
Is hot and sour soup healthy?
Hot and sour soup can be healthy, as it is low in calories and fat, especially if made with tofu and plenty of vegetables. It also offers a good source of protein.
How long can hot and sour soup be stored?
When stored in an airtight container, hot and sour soup can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
Hot and sour soup is a delightful dish that combines the perfect balance of flavors, making it a staple in many households. With its rich taste and comforting warmth, it’s a dish you’ll want to share with family and friends. Enjoy this recipe and customize it to your liking!
Hot And Sour Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup tofu diced
- 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 egg beaten
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add sliced mushrooms and bamboo shoots, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tofu and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Mix in soy sauce and rice vinegar for seasoning.
- Slowly add the cornstarch mixture, stirring constantly until the soup thickens.
- Reduce heat and slowly pour in the beaten egg, stirring gently to create ribbons.
- Add white pepper and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped green onions.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
