There’s a certain warmth that envelops the kitchen when a pot of soup simmers on the stove, isn’t there? The delightful aroma of mushrooms mingling with spices is enough to whisk me away to my favorite Asian bistro. On a particularly chilly evening, I decided to recreate that cozy experience at home, leading me to discover my ultimate Easy Chinese Hot and Sour Soup Recipe.
This gem of a dish, elevated with earthy mushrooms, silky tofu, and a hint of tangy vinegar, proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. In just a few simple steps, you can create a vibrant soup bursting with flavor, transforming your weeknight meal or impressing guests at your next gathering. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty dish that doesn’t compromise on health. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone seeking refuge from fast food, this recipe is bound to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your soul. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into a bowl of tasty goodness!
Why is this Easy Chinese Hot and Sour Soup Recipe a must-try?
Comforting, delightful aroma: The minute you simmer this soup, your kitchen will be infused with an irresistible blend of spices and mushrooms.
Nutritious simplicity: With fresh ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a nourishing dish without fussing over complicated processes.
Variety of textures: Enjoy the contrast of silky tofu and crunchy bamboo shoots, making each bite a delicious adventure.
Health-conscious indulgence: This soup is light yet satisfying, perfect for cozy nights without weighing you down.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it to friends or family, and you’ll earn rave reviews as everyone dives in for seconds! If you’re looking for more comforting recipes, check out my post on simple homemade soups to warm your evenings!
Easy Chinese Hot and Sour Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavor-packed masterpiece!
For the Broth
- Chicken stock – 1 ½ liters of rich flavor that serves as the base of your easy Chinese hot and sour soup recipe.
- Light soy sauce – 2 tablespoons for a savory, umami kick.
- Shaoxing wine – 2 tablespoons to add depth and a touch of authenticity to your soup.
For the Flavor Makers
- Carrot – 1 julienne, bringing a hint of sweetness and vibrant color to your dish.
- Enoki mushroom – 1 bunch, offering a delicate crunch that enhances the overall texture.
- Wood ear mushroom – 4 rehydrated and thinly sliced, adding an earthy flavor and unique chewiness.
- Shiitake mushroom – 4 rehydrated and thinly sliced, providing a robust taste and aroma.
- Bamboo shoots – 1 cup, thinly sliced for a delightful crunch in every spoonful.
- Firm tofu – ½ block, thinly sliced, offering a creamy element that absorbs the broth’s flavors.
For the Final Touches
- Chinese black vinegar – 2 tablespoons for a tangy balance to the soup’s richness.
- Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon to finish with a nutty aroma that brightens the flavors.
- White pepper – 1 teaspoon for a warming spice that compliments the mushrooms.
- Salt – to taste; adjust according to your preference for a perfect seasoning.
For Thickening and Garnish
- Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons, mixed with 3 tablespoons of water to give your soup a silky texture.
- Eggs – 2 beaten, gently swirled in for a soft, silky finish.
- Cilantro or green onion – for garnish, adding freshness that elevates each bowl.
- Chili oil – optional, if you like a bit of heat!
Dive into this wholesome recipe, and let the comforting flavors envelop you as you enjoy your homemade soup!
How to Make Easy Chinese Hot and Sour Soup
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Prepare the broth: In a large pot, pour 1 ½ liters of chicken stock and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. The comforting aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
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Add the ingredients: Stir in 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of Shaoxing wine, julienned carrot, enoki mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and sliced tofu. Let everything meld together beautifully.
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Season it up: Pour in 2 tablespoons of Chinese black vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of white pepper, and add salt to taste. Give the soup a good stir, adjusting the seasoning to suit your preference.
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Thicken the soup: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water to create a smooth slurry. Gradually add it to the pot, stirring gently until the soup thickens slightly.
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Add the eggs: Carefully drizzle in your 2 beaten eggs, swirling them into the soup. Let them cook for about a minute, just until they form delicate ribbons, then remove the pot from heat.
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Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro or sliced green onion. Drizzle with chili oil if you crave a little extra heat!
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Chinese Hot and Sour Soup
Fridge: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Leave some space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Serving Tip: If you’ve added the eggs, consider serving immediately after cooking for the best texture, as they can become less delicate upon freezing and reheating.
What to Serve with Mushroom and Tofu Soup?
A warm, comforting soup deserves equally delightful companions that awaken the senses and elevate the meal experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, subtly fragrant rice soaks up the savory broth, balancing the soup’s richness beautifully. Pairing it with the soup creates a warm, filling dish.
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Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy, fresh, and light, these rolls add a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness to your meal. Plus, the dipping sauce complements the soup’s flavors perfectly.
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Garlic Sesame Noodles: The nutty notes and garlicky kick of sesame noodles provide contrasting flavors that enhance the comforting soup experience. A lovely duo for a cozy dinner!
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Pickled Cucumber Salad: Bright and tangy, this crunchy salad cleanses the palate between bites, refreshing your taste buds as you enjoy the soup.
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Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly stir-fried bok choy with a hint of garlic brings a pleasing crispness and earthy taste, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Chili Oil: Serve alongside for those who enjoy a bit of heat, allowing each spoonful to take on a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the soup’s warmth.
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Chrysanthemum Tea: A fragrant herbal tea sets a lovely mood, balancing the meal’s savory aspects while offering a relaxing finish to your dining experience.
Expert Tips
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Quality Stock Matters: Use homemade or high-quality chicken stock for a richer flavor. Store-bought versions can lack depth, making your easy Chinese hot and sour soup less satisfying.
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Mushroom Variety: Don’t feel limited to the recipe’s mushrooms; experiment with different varieties you love! Just remember that each type brings a unique flavor and texture.
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Thickening Consistency: If your soup becomes too thick after adding the cornstarch, simply add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency for the easy Chinese hot and sour soup recipe.
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Balance Flavors: Taste and adjust your seasoning frequently. A bit more vinegar or soy sauce can transform the soup, ensuring it remains perfectly balanced.
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Egg Technique: When adding the beaten eggs, stir gently to create delicate ribbons. Avoid adding them too quickly or they may clump together.
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Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro or green onion not only adds color but elevates the flavor, making each bowl of soup visually appealing and delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Chinese Hot and Sour Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and tofu up to 24 hours in advance; just ensure you store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the broth can be prepared 3 days ahead; simply cool it down and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the broth on the stove, add the prepped vegetables and tofu, thicken with the cornstarch slurry, and swirl in the eggs. With these make-ahead steps, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of comforting soup that tastes just as vibrant and flavorful as if freshly made, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
Easy Chinese Hot and Sour Soup Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this comforting soup, enhancing flavors and accommodating your cravings!
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Vegan Option: Substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock and use silken tofu for a lighter texture. The flavors will still be fabulous!
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Gluten-Free: Switch light soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, ensuring a gluten-free dish that everyone can enjoy.
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Extra Protein: Add shredded chicken or cooked shrimp for a heartier soup. The added protein elevates the meal while keeping the flavors vibrant.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced fresh jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat. Adjust to your preferred spice level and enjoy the delightful warmth!
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Herbal Freshness: Toss in fresh basil or mint at serving for a fragrant lift. It brightens the dish and adds a refreshing twist.
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Coconut Cream: Drizzle a bit of coconut cream on top for a creamy finish. This adds a unique flavor dimension that pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Mushroom Medley: Use a variety of mushrooms like portobello or cremini for an earthy richness. Each type brings different qualities, creating a flavorful experience.
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Zesty Citrus: A squeeze of lime or lemon just before serving brightens the soup’s flavors beautifully. It adds a refreshing zing that complements the other ingredients!
Easy Chinese Hot and Sour Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken stock is best for the soup?
Absolutely! Using high-quality homemade chicken stock will bring an incredible depth of flavor to your easy Chinese hot and sour soup recipe. If you’re short on time, look for low-sodium, flavorful store-bought options, but avoid those with artificial additives for a more authentic taste.
Can I substitute ingredients if I can’t find them?
Very! Feel free to get creative with your mushrooms; oyster or button mushrooms can be excellent alternatives. If you’re avoiding soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos work well for a gluten-free option. Just remember, each substitute will slightly change the flavor profile, but with fresh, vibrant ingredients, you’ll still end up with a delicious soup!
How should I store leftovers of this soup?
For sure! Store your easy Chinese hot and sour soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to retain its freshness. Moreover, if you find yourself with more soup than you can finish, it freezes well too!
What are the freezing instructions for this soup?
Absolutely! To freeze your soup, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion. Your easy Chinese hot and sour soup will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Can my pet have any of the ingredients?
Very! While the vegetables and mushrooms are generally safe for pets, it’s best to avoid giving them soy sauce or any added spices. Always check with your vet before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet. Keeping them safe while enjoying your soup is a must!
Easy Chinese Hot and Sour Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, pour 1 ½ liters of chicken stock and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of Shaoxing wine, julienned carrot, enoki mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and sliced tofu.
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of Chinese black vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of white pepper, and add salt to taste.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water to create a smooth slurry. Gradually add it to the pot, stirring gently until the soup thickens slightly.
- Carefully drizzle in your 2 beaten eggs, swirling them into the soup. Let them cook for about a minute.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro or sliced green onion. Drizzle with chili oil if you crave a little extra heat!