Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

“A classic, tangy, and slightly spicy soup packed with bold flavors, tofu, and fresh veggies. Perfect for warming up your taste buds and your soul!”

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (adjust for spice level)
• 1 teaspoon ground white pepper (optional, for authentic flavor)
• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, diced into small cubes
• 1 cup mushrooms, thinly sliced (shiitake, button, or wood ear)
• 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, julienned
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

For Garnish:

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Additional chili oil or soy sauce, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. In a large pot over medium heat, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil.
2. Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili garlic sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed to achieve your desired level of heat and tanginess.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Tofu

1. Add the mushrooms, bamboo shoots, carrot, and tofu to the pot.
2. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup

1. Stir in the cornstarch slurry, mixing continuously to avoid lumps.
2. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, until the soup thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

1. Reduce the heat to low and slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the soup in a thin stream while gently stirring with a fork or chopsticks to create silky egg ribbons.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with green onions and fresh cilantro, and drizzle with additional chili oil or soy sauce if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!

Pro Tips

1. Customize the Heat: Add more chili garlic sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice.
2. Protein Options: Swap tofu for cooked chicken, shrimp, or pork for a heartier soup.
3. Make It Authentic: Include wood ear mushrooms and lily buds for a more traditional touch.

This Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup is a deliciously comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Serve it as a starter or a light meal, and enjoy the dynamic flavors in every spoonful! 🍲✨