Easy Hot and Sour Soup Recipe for Flavor Lovers

The steam wafts up from the bowl, wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. That first spoonful of hot and sour soup hits your taste buds with a delightful punch—it’s like a flavor party where tartness meets fire in an epic showdown. With each slurp, you can almost hear the ingredients cheering on their delicious union.

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I remember the first time I tried this vibrant dish; it was during a casual dinner with friends who insisted that I simply *had* to try it. One bite in, my soul was instantly warmed by the comforting broth—it’s perfect whether you’re nursing a cold or just wanting to feel cozy on a rainy afternoon.

There’s something special about sharing food with loved ones; it sparks joy and laughter. I can still hear my friend’s exaggerated slurps as they tried to cool down their fiery mouth after taking too big of a bite!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Chicken or Tofu: Choose boneless chicken or firm tofu for protein; both absorb flavors beautifully.
• Mushrooms: Fresh shiitake mushrooms add umami depth; dried ones can work in a pinch.
• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep things balanced; homemade is great if you have it!
• Tamarind Paste: This ingredient gives that signature sour note; it’s worth seeking out.
• Chili Paste: Add according to your spice tolerance; this is where the heat comes from!
• Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for its zesty kick; it brightens up the whole dish.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions are perfect for garnish; they add color and crunch.
• Rice Vinegar: This adds tanginess; adjust based on personal preference.
• Cornstarch: A little mixed with water helps thicken the soup; it makes it silky smooth!
• Eggs (optional): Beaten eggs create lovely ribbons in the broth if you’re feeling fancy!

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

Let’s Make It Together

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients so you can easily access them while cooking. Chop your veggies and proteins into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Prepare Your Broth Base: In a large pot over medium heat, pour in vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. The aroma will start filling your kitchen like magic!

Add Your Flavors : Stir in tamarind paste, chili paste, freshly grated ginger, soy sauce, and rice vinegar into the simmering broth. Taste as you go—this is where you create your flavor masterpiece!

Add Proteins & Veggies : Toss in chicken or tofu cubes along with sliced mushrooms and let everything cook together until tender about 5-7 minutes should do it.

Thicken It Up : Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the simmering soup until you achieve your desired thickness creamy but not pudding-like!

Add Finishing Touches : For those who want eggs ribbons, slowly drizzle beaten eggs into the hot soup while stirring gently. Top off with chopped green onions before serving the visual pop is stunning!

Your warm bowl of hot and sour goodness is ready! Serve immediately and watch everyone dive in like it’s been ages since their last meal!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing all your ingredients before cooking to streamline the process. Sauté garlic and ginger first, add broth next, then incorporate vegetables and proteins for optimal flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out proteins like chicken or tofu based on your preference. Experiment with different mushrooms or even toss in some fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently over medium heat to preserve the soup’s texture and flavor without boiling it away.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of the first time I made it for friends; they were blown away by its bold flavors and kept asking for seconds!

FAQ

What’s the best way to adjust spice levels in my hot and sour soup?

Add chili paste or sliced jalapeños gradually until you reach your desired heat level.

Can I make hot and sour soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and tofu instead of meat for a delicious vegetarian option.

How can I thicken my hot and sour soup?

Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering soup until thickened.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Hot and Sour Soup

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• Author: tastyfoodonly
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Warm up with our easy hot and sour soup recipe that combines spicy and tangy flavors for a comforting dish, perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends.

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Ingredients

• Chicken or Tofu
• Fresh Shiitake Mushrooms
• Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth
• Tamarind Paste
• Chili Paste
• Fresh Ginger
• Green Onions
• Rice Vinegar
• Cornstarch
• Eggs (optional)

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Instructions

1. Gather and chop all your ingredients.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, bring vegetable broth to a gentle simmer.
3. Stir in tamarind paste, chili paste, grated ginger, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning.
4. Add chicken or tofu and mushrooms; cook until tender (5-7 minutes).
5. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and gradually stir into the soup until thickened.
6. If desired, drizzle beaten eggs into the soup while stirring gently. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 50mg