Authentic Chinese Hot and Sour Soup Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

If you’re looking for a flavorful journey, this Chinese Hot and Sour Soup is a must-try. It’s a vibrant addition to the realm of international soups, showcasing bold flavors that excite the palate. This specialty soup balances the heat of white pepper with the tanginess of vinegar, creating a delightful contrast that warms you from the inside out.

This soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes the soul, making it a perfect dish for chilly evenings or when you’re feeling under the weather. With an array of textures from mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots, each spoonful is a delightful experience.

The Best Chinese Hot and Sour Soup Recipe

A bowl of Chinese Hot and Sour Soup with mushrooms, tofu, and bamboo shoots, garnished with green onions.

This authentic Chinese Hot and Sour Soup is a perfect blend of spicy and tangy flavors. It features a rich broth filled with tender mushrooms, silky tofu, and crunchy bamboo shoots, delivering a satisfying and complex taste that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
1 cup bamboo shoots, julienned
1 cup firm tofu, cubed
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 tablespoon white pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
2 green onions, chopped
1 egg, beaten (optional)
Salt to taste
Sesame oil for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat.
Add Ingredients: Stir in the sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu. Allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
Season the Soup: Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and white pepper to the pot. Adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
Thicken the Soup: Gradually stir in the cornstarch mixture, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.
Add Egg: If using, slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the soup while stirring gently to create egg ribbons.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and drizzle with sesame oil if desired. Serve hot.