Classic Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of classic hot and sour soup with tofu and mushrooms

Table of Contents

Why Make This Recipe

Classic Hot and Sour Soup is a popular dish that warms the soul and satisfies the taste buds. It’s a perfect balance of spicy and tangy flavors, making it a favorite in many households and restaurants. This comfort food is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With its combination of healthy ingredients, it can be part of a balanced meal. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in, this soup is sure to please.

How to Make Classic Hot and Sour Soup

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 cup tofu, cubed
  • 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Salt to taste

Directions:

  1. In a pot, combine chicken broth and water, and bring to a boil.
  2. Add sliced mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots; simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and white pepper.
  4. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the soup while stirring.
  5. Once thickened, slowly pour in the beaten eggs while stirring to create ribbons.
  6. Add green onions and salt to taste.
  7. Serve hot.

How to Serve Classic Hot and Sour Soup

Serve Classic Hot and Sour Soup in bowls while it is still steaming. You can garnish it with extra sliced green onions or a dash of chili oil for some added heat. This soup pairs well with rice or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.

How to Store Classic Hot and Sour Soup

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool down and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until hot. Note that the texture may change slightly after storing, but it will still taste great.

Tips to Make Classic Hot and Sour Soup

  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less white pepper or chili oil.
  • For a thicker soup, increase the amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
  • Feel free to add other ingredients like carrots or bell peppers for more variety.

Variation

You can customize Classic Hot and Sour Soup by adding different proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also try different vinegars or soy sauces to create your own unique flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the eggs or replace them with a vegan alternative.

Q: How spicy is this soup?
A: The heat level depends on the amount of white pepper you use. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.

Q: Can I freeze the leftover soup?
A: It is not recommended to freeze hot and sour soup, especially if it contains tofu, as the texture may change when thawed. It’s best to enjoy it fresh!

Print
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Classic Hot and Sour Soup


  • Author: lydia
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A comforting and flavorful balance of spicy and tangy flavors, perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 cup tofu, cubed
  • 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. In a pot, combine chicken broth and water, and bring to a boil.
  2. Add sliced mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots; simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and white pepper.
  4. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the soup while stirring.
  5. Once thickened, slowly pour in the beaten eggs while stirring to create ribbons.
  6. Add green onions and salt to taste.
  7. Serve hot.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust spice levels according to taste.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

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Pro Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Lydia, the passionate culinary creator behind Ninja Machine Recipes! I firmly believe that amazing food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here at Ninja Machine Recipes, I share my favorite recipes that bring loved ones together around the dinner table – from quick weeknight solutions to special celebration treats.

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