Easy Hot and Sour Soup Recipe for Everyone

The aroma of spices wafts through the air as this steaming bowl of hot and sour soup comes into view. Picture tender mushrooms mingling with crunchy bamboo shoots in a broth that’s both fiery and tangy—a true delight for the senses! Each spoonful promises a delightful dance of flavors that warms your heart (and maybe makes you sweat a little).

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I remember the first time I tried making this hot and sour soup recipe; it was during one of those chilly evenings when you just want to curl up under a blanket. My friends were coming over for dinner, and I thought, “Why not impress them with my culinary skills?” Spoiler alert: they were impressed! This is the kind of dish that turns any gathering into a cozy celebration.

I still chuckle when I think about my friend who took one sip too many of the spicy broth; his face turned redder than a ripe tomato! But hey, that’s part of the fun!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Mushrooms: Fresh shiitake or button mushrooms work wonders; they add texture and earthy flavor.
• Bamboo Shoots: Opt for canned bamboo shoots—they’re convenient and add an enjoyable crunch.
• Tofu: Firm tofu gives body to the soup; make sure to press it well before adding.
• Vegetable Broth: Homemade or store-bought broth can elevate your flavors—go low-sodium if needed.
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still delivering umami goodness.
• Rice Vinegar: This adds the signature sour kick; don’t skimp on it!
• Chili Paste: Adjust according to your heat tolerance—this is where the “hot” comes from!
• Cornstarch: Mix with water for thickening; it creates that luscious texture we crave in soups.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions on top add freshness; be generous with them!
• Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle at the end brings everything together with its nutty aroma.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and green onions. Press tofu to remove excess moisture before cutting it into cubes.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle some oil. Add green onions (reserve some for garnish) until fragrant—about a minute.

Add Vegetables: Toss in mushrooms and bamboo shoots next. Sauté them until they soften slightly—around 3-4 minutes—releasing their enticing aromas.

Create the Broth: Pour vegetable broth into the pot along with soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and tofu cubes. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.

Thicken It Up: Mix cornstarch with equal parts water until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to your simmering pot while stirring continuously until your soup thickens slightly—this should take about 5 minutes.

Finish Off: Add sesame oil just before serving for that final touch of richness. Taste-test and adjust seasoning if needed—then proudly ladle into bowls!

There you have it—a delightful hot and sour soup ready in no time! Perfect for chilly nights or whenever you feel like warming up from the inside out.

Now go ahead! Gather your loved ones around this comforting dish. Whether it’s family dinner night or just you treating yourself after a long day, this hot and sour soup will surely bring smiles all around!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing aromatics like garlic and ginger first, then add broth and vegetables to enhance flavors efficiently.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap proteins, like chicken or tofu, and add mushrooms or bok choy for extra flavor and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove for best results.

Sharing this hot and sour soup recipe reminds me of cozy nights spent with friends, slurping bowls while trading stories.

FAQ

Can I make this hot and sour soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and tofu instead of meat for a delicious vegetarian version.

What can I do if my soup is too spicy?

Add more broth or coconut milk to balance out the heat if it becomes overwhelming.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days without losing flavor.

Print

Hot and Sour Soup

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• Author: homerecipeseasy
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Hot and sour soup is a tantalizing blend of spicy and tangy flavors that warms the soul. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, ready in just 30 minutes!

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Ingredients

• Fresh shiitake or button mushrooms
• Canned bamboo shoots
• Firm tofu
• Vegetable broth
• Low-sodium soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Chili paste
• Cornstarch
• Green onions
• Sesame oil

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Instructions

1. Chop mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and green onions. Press tofu to remove excess moisture and cut into cubes.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté green onions until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add mushrooms and bamboo shoots; sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Pour in vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and tofu cubes. Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
5. Mix cornstarch with water until smooth; gradually add to the pot while stirring until the soup thickens (about 5 minutes).
6. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup or 240g
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added protein, substitute chicken for tofu or include bok choy for extra texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat on the stove for best results.