Quick Chinese-Style Hot and Sour Soup that Warms the Soul

A comforting and customizable Chinese-Style Hot and Sour Soup that balances tangy and spicy notes.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Soups

Cuisine: Chinese

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Broth

6 cups chicken broth Vegetarian or vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
3 tablespoons soy sauce Low-sodium soy sauce can be used for a healthier option.
1/4 cup rice vinegar Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can be used as substitutes.

For the Soup Base

1 cup sliced mushrooms Substitute with canned or dried mushrooms (soak dried in water first).
1 cup bamboo shoots Julienne if fresh; otherwise, canned works well.
1 cup tofu Can be replaced with cooked chicken or shrimp for non-vegetarian versions.

For Thickening and Flavor

2 tablespoons cornstarch Ensure it's mixed with water before adding to prevent clumping.
2 teaspoons chili paste Sriracha can be used as a milder alternative.

For Garnishing

1 large egg Can be omitted for a vegan option; try a tofu egg substitute.
2 tablespoons chopped green onions Can also use chives or shallots.

Equipment

Large pot

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large pot, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and place it over medium-high heat. Bring the broth to a rolling boil, which should take about 5–7 minutes.
Once boiling, add in 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, 1 cup of bamboo shoots, and 1 cup of cubed tofu. Let your soup simmer for about 5 minutes.
Stir in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of rice vinegar, and 2 teaspoons of chili paste. Continue to simmer for another minute.
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water until smooth. Gradually pour this mixture into the simmering soup while stirring vigorously.
Beat 1 egg in a separate bowl and slowly drizzle it into the pot while stirring gently. Allow the soup to cook for an additional minute.
Remove the pot from heat and ladle the hot soup into bowls. Sprinkle with chopped green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables to customize the soup to your liking.

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