Hot and Sour Soup the Perfect Bowl of Comfort
Recipe Introduction: Get Ready for a Flavour Explosion!
Fancy a bowl that kicks you in the taste buds? Does it make you warm and happy? Then Hot and Sour Soup is your answer, mate! I remember the first time I tried it.
It was a cold, rainy night in London. Honestly, one spoonful and I was hooked! It was a taste like nothing else.
Quick Hook: The Tangy Tingler
This isn't your average soup. It's an adventure in a bowl! Homemade Hot and Sour Soup is a whirlwind of spicy, sour, and salty goodness.
It's like a culinary hug. Only this hug bites back a little.
Brief Overview: A Taste of the East
This soup has roots in Chinese cuisine. It's been enjoyed for centuries. It's surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe is rated medium difficulty.
Expect it to take around 45 minutes from start to finish. The recipe yields around 4 to 6 servings. Perfect for a family dinner, or a night in.
Main Benefits: Health and Happiness in a Bowl
One of the best things is the health boost. Packed with mushrooms and tofu, it's a good source of protein and nutrients.
So, you can enjoy it guilt free! And it's just the ticket when you're feeling a bit under the weather. This Authentic Hot and Sour Soup brings happiness with every spoonful.
Ready to spice things up in the kitchen? Let's dive into the Hot and Sour Soup Ingredients .
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Hot and Sour Soup
Alright, let's talk ingredients. Honestly, this Homemade Hot and Sour Soup is all about getting the balance right. You know? That perfect dance between spicy, sour, salty, and a touch of sweet.
Don't stress too much; it's easier than you think.
Main Ingredients: The Flavour Foundation
- Broth: 6 cups (1.4 liters) of chicken or vegetable broth. Go for good quality, yeah? Makes a difference.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: 4 dried (30g) or 8 fresh (80g) , thinly sliced. Dried ones need rehydrating first. I once forgot to rehydrate them and ended up gnawing on them like leather! Not fun.
- Rice Vinegar: 1/4 cup (60 ml) . Don't skimp! It's where the sour comes from.
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons . Low sodium is your mate here.
- Chili Garlic Sauce: 1-2 tablespoons . This is where the Hot Spicy Soup action happens. Adjust to your taste. I use Lee Kum Kee.
- White Pepper: 1 teaspoon . Don't skip this. It's key for that unique flavour.
- Ground Ginger: 1/2 teaspoon . Fresh is great, but ground works too.
- Sugar: 1/4 teaspoon . A tiny bit to balance the sour.
- Cornstarch Slurry: 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water . This thickens the soup.
Soup Add-Ins: The Good Stuff
- Tofu: 4 oz (115g) firm or extra firm, thinly sliced. This makes Hot and Sour Soup With Tofu so good!
- Bamboo Shoots: 1/2 cup (40g) , thinly sliced. Get 'em in a tin from your local Tesco, easy peasy.
- Wood Ear Mushrooms: 1/4 cup (20g) , rehydrated and sliced (optional). Adds a lovely texture.
- Green Onions: 2 , thinly sliced (for garnish).
- Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten.
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tbsp .
Seasoning Notes: Tweaking the Taste
Essential spice combinations for the authentic Chinese Hot and Sour Soup involves white pepper, ginger and chili! For a Hot and Sour Soup Recipe Vegetarian or even Hot and Sour Soup Vegan make sure your Chili Garlic Sauce is suitable for vegans! I find a dash of sesame oil adds a wonderful layer of flavour!
If you're missing an ingredient, a tiny splash of fish sauce (if you aren't after Hot and Sour Soup Vegan ) adds some umami.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
Honestly, you don't need fancy gadgets. Essential tools only will do.
- Large pot: A big one, like a Dutch oven if you have one, for making all this Soup Hot And Sour
- Small bowl: For the cornstarch slurry.
- Cutting board & sharp knife: Obvious, right?
- Ladle: For serving, obviously!
If you're lacking something, don't fret. A regular saucepan will do, and a spoon works instead of a ladle. This Easy Hot and Sour Soup Recipe does not require that much! The most important thing is tasting and adjusting the seasoning as you go.
It is just like the Authentic Hot and Sour Soup you can get from your favourite chinese restaurant!
Hot and Sour Soup: Your New Favourite Comfort Food
Oh my gosh, you guys! Ever get that craving for something that's both comforting and kinda punches you in the face with flavour? Well, let me tell you, Hot and Sour Soup is exactly what you need.
It's like a hug from the inside, but a spicy, tangy hug, you know? Like a proper Chinese Hot and Sour Soup from your favourite takeaway, but way better because you made it yourself! It's the perfect bowl of comfort if you ask me.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Sorted
Right, before we get down to the nitty gritty, let's talk prep. Having everything chopped, measured, and ready to go makes the whole process so much smoother.
Think of it like getting your ducks in a row before the race proper organized.
- Essential Mise en Place: Slice your mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots. Mix your cornstarch slurry. Get your broth ready. Honestly, it makes all the difference.
- Time Saving Organization Tips: I like to rehydrate my dried shiitake mushrooms the night before. That way, they're super plump and ready to go. Plus, you get that extra mushroom-y water to add to the broth - bonus!
- Safety Reminders: Be careful when slicing those mushrooms, yeah? Keep those fingers tucked in, or you will be sorry! A blunt knife is a dangerous knife, so keep yours sharp, guv'nor!.
From Simmer to Slurp: step-by-step Easy Hot and Sour Soup Recipe
Okay, here's where the magic happens. Don't worry, it's easier than you think!
- Soak the Mushrooms : Rehydrate those dried shiitakes in warm water.
- Build the Broth : In a large pot, add your broth, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, white pepper, and sugar. Bring it all to a simmer.
- Tofu Time : Gently slide in those tofu strips. Be gentle!
- Thicken It Up : Slowly pour in your cornstarch slurry while stirring. Keep stirring until it thickens.
- Egg Drop Drama : Drizzle in the beaten egg while stirring gently. Watch those egg ribbons form!
- Taste and Tweak : Season to perfection. More chili garlic sauce for heat or a dash of rice vinegar for that Authentic Hot and Sour Soup tang? Go wild! I'm going to spice it up so it becomes a Hot Spicy Soup .
Secret Weapons: Pro Tips for Soup Hot And Sour Perfection
Want to take your Homemade Hot and Sour Soup to the next level? Of course you do!
- Balance is Key: The secret? Taste, taste, taste! Adjust the vinegar and chili garlic sauce until it's just right.
- Avoid Slurry Disaster : Make sure that slurry is smooth before you pour it in. Lumpy soup is a no-go.
- Spice Control: Not a fan of crazy heat? Start with a little chili garlic sauce and add more to your taste. Some like it hot, I love it burning!
So there you have it. Now go forth and make some amazing Hot and Sour Soup With Tofu . You won't regret it! If you're looking for a Hot And Sour Soup Recipe Vegetarian , simply swap out the Chicken Broth for a Vegetable Broth.
Enjoy your Hot And Sour Soup Vegan creation!
Recipe Notes
Right, so you've got the basics down. But like any good recipe, there's always room for tweaking and making it your own.
Let's have a chinwag about a few handy tips to nail that perfect bowl of Homemade Hot and Sour Soup .
Serving Suggestions: Sorted!
Alright, presentation is key, innit? I reckon a lovely deep bowl is the way to go. A sprinkle of fresh spring onions brightens things up a treat.
You could even add a swirl of sesame oil, if you're feeling fancy. For sides? Oh my gosh! Spring rolls or potstickers are a perfect match.
Some steamed rice or noodles are also a solid choice, turning this into a proper meal.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh
Listen, no one wants soggy leftovers. Once it's cooled down, bung your Chinese Hot and Sour Soup in an airtight container. It'll keep in the fridge for about 3 days, tops.
Freezing? Honestly, I wouldn't recommend it. The texture can change a bit when it thaws, especially the tofu. Reheating instructions: Gently does it! Heat it up slowly on the hob or in the microwave until it's piping hot.
Remember food safety Temperature must be 75° C .
Variations: Mix It Up, Mate!
Fancy a bit of a change? No worries.
- Vegetarian or Vegan Hot and Sour Soup ? Easy peasy. Just use vegetable broth and make sure your chili garlic sauce is vegan friendly. You can easily make Hot and Sour Soup Vegan this way.
- Seasonal swap? Try adding some butternut squash in the autumn for a bit of sweetness. It'll add a lovely creamy texture. Looking for Hot and Sour Soup Recipe Vegetarian ? You're in the right place.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
Honestly, Hot and Sour Soup is surprisingly good for you. It's packed with veggies, which are full of vitamins. Plus, the broth is super hydrating.
Just watch out for the sodium content, especially if you're using shop bought broth. The Hot Spicy Soup has a ton of benefits! As a guide, this bowl of Soup Hot And Sour has about 150-200 calories, 10-12g of protein, 5-7g of fat, and 12-15g of carbs per serving.
Right then, there you have it! All the tips and tricks you need to make the Authentic Hot and Sour Soup .
Don't be afraid to experiment and have a bit of fun with it. After all, cooking should be enjoyable. Get in the kitchen and give it a go! You got this! And don't forget your Hot and Sour Soup Ingredients !
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Hot and Sour Soup? It sounds a bit... intense!
Well, think of it as a Chinese culinary rollercoaster! Hot and Sour Soup is a flavour explosion that perfectly balances spicy and tangy notes, hence the name. It's usually made with a savoury broth, mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots, all brought together with vinegar and chili.
Like a proper cuppa, it's got a bit of everything to get you going!
How spicy should my Hot and Sour Soup be? I don't want to blow my head off!
The spice level is entirely up to you, mate! Start with a small amount of chili garlic sauce (a teaspoon or two) and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can't take it away. If you're a bit of a chilli wimp, keep a glass of milk handy, or use a milder chilli paste to build the flavour gradually.
Can I make Hot and Sour Soup ahead of time? Does it keep well?
You certainly can! Hot and Sour Soup is often even better the next day after the flavours have had a chance to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, bring it to a gentle simmer on the stovetop or microwave until piping hot, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Be aware that the tofu may become a bit softer over time.
I'm a vegetarian/vegan. Can I still enjoy Hot and Sour Soup? What are the best substitutions?
Absolutely! Hot and Sour Soup is easily adaptable. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure your chili garlic sauce is vegan friendly (some contain fish sauce). You can also add extra mushrooms, bamboo shoots, or other veggies like carrots or bell peppers to bulk it up.
For a vegan protein source, try using fried tofu puffs for a nice chewy texture.
The recipe mentions cornstarch slurry. What is that and why do I need it for my Hot and Sour Soup?
A cornstarch slurry is simply a mixture of cornstarch and cold water, used as a thickening agent. It's crucial for achieving that lovely, slightly thickened texture in Hot and Sour Soup. Make sure the water is cold to prevent the cornstarch from clumping.
Pour it into the simmering soup slowly while stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. It's a bit like making a good gravy, really!
I made too much! Can I freeze Hot and Sour Soup?
Freezing Hot and Sour Soup is possible, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The tofu, in particular, can become a bit spongy. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer safe containers or bags. Leave some room for expansion.
Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly. It's still perfectly edible and delicious, just maybe not quite as good as fresh. Best enjoyed within 2-3 months for the best quality.
Hot And Sour Soup The Perfect Bowl Of Comfort
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 150-200 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 5-7g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |
