Authentic Hot and Sour Soup : Easy Chinese Soup Recipe

When you’re craving something comforting, flavorful, and packed with a balance of tangy and spicy notes, nothing satisfies quite like Hot and Sour Soup. This iconic Chinese dish is a restaurant favorite, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home with just a handful of ingredients.

The beauty of this soup lies in its contrast: bold peppery heat balanced with vinegar’s sharp tang, all layered over a savory broth. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but light enough to serve as an appetizer. Whether you’re new to Chinese soup recipes or you’ve tried making them before, this version will quickly become your go-to.

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Why You’ll Love This Authentic Hot and Sour Soup

This soup has something for everyone:

• Quick to prepare: Ready in under 40 minutes.
• Nutritious and hearty: Packed with protein, mushrooms, and vegetables.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice, vinegar, or protein to your liking.
• Restaurant quality at home: Taste authentic Chinese flavors without takeout.

If you already enjoy Chinese-inspired comfort food like Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken or warm brothy dishes such as Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, this soup will hit the spot.

What is Hot and Sour Soup?

Hot and Sour Soup is a traditional Chinese soup recipe known for its bold flavors and silky texture. The “hot” comes from white pepper and sometimes chili oil, while the “sour” comes from rice vinegar. Traditionally, it includes tofu, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and egg ribbons swirled into a savory broth.

This dish is not only popular in China but also across Chinese restaurants worldwide. Its balance of heat, acidity, and umami makes it stand out among other Asian soup recipes like wonton soup or miso soup.

Key Ingredients for Hot and Sour Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate the authentic flavor at home:

• 6 cups chicken stock or vegetable broth (for vegetarian option)
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced (dried or fresh)
• ½ cup bamboo shoots, julienned
• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, cut into strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or more, to taste)
• 1 teaspoon white pepper (for heat)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Optional: pork strips or chicken breast can be added for extra protein.

If you like keeping pantry-friendly recipes on hand, you’ll also love Vegetarian Pasta Primavera and Vegetable Casserole—both versatile and wholesome like this soup.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Making Chinese soup recipes doesn’t require much equipment. Here’s your checklist:

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Ladle for serving
• Whisk for the egg ribbons
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Sharp knife and cutting board

With these basics, you’ll be ready to prepare everything from this soup to other classics like Crockpot Fajitas.

How to Make Hot and Sour Soup at Home

1. Prepare the Broth
   In a large soup pot, bring chicken or vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add Flavor
   Stir in soy sauce, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.
3. Season with Heat and Tang
   Add rice vinegar and white pepper. Taste and adjust to balance sourness and spice.
4. Thicken the Soup
   Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Slowly whisk it into the pot until the soup thickens slightly.
5. Create Egg Ribbons
   Reduce heat to low. While stirring the soup gently in circles, slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs. They’ll form silky ribbons instantly.
6. Finish and Serve
   Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with green onions. Serve hot.

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Health Benefits of Hot and Sour Soup

This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s also nourishing:

• Low in calories but filling thanks to protein-rich tofu and eggs.
• Boosts immunity with mushrooms and nutrient-dense broth.
• Easily adaptable to vegetarian or gluten-free diets.

For another nutrient-packed option, check out Healthy Veggie Egg Scramble.

Flavor Profile Explained

The key to an authentic hot and sour soup recipe lies in balance:

• Hot: White pepper delivers heat that lingers in the back of the throat rather than a chili burn.
• Sour: Vinegar brings a clean tanginess that cuts through the richness.
• Savory: Soy sauce, mushrooms, and broth create umami depth.

Together, these elements make the soup bold yet comforting.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and omit meat.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili oil or Sriracha for extra heat.
• Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken or pork.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

If you enjoy versatile dishes, you’ll also love Stuffed Acorn Squash for a hearty, customizable dinner.

Serving Suggestions

Hot and Sour Soup pairs perfectly with:

• Steamed white rice or fried rice
• Vegetable spring rolls
• Stir-fried noodles
• Steamed dumplings

Pair it with a fresh salad like Cucumber Dill Salad to balance the flavors.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze without the eggs (they don’t reheat well). Add fresh eggs when reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding eggs too quickly: Pour slowly to create ribbons, not clumps.
• Over-vinegaring: Start with less vinegar and adjust.
• Too much cornstarch: It should thicken slightly, not become gloopy.
• Overcooking mushrooms: Add them early, but don’t simmer too long or they’ll lose texture.

For another lesson in balance, try Sweet Chili Meatballs—sweet, savory, and perfectly glazed.

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Hot and Sour Soup FAQs

Is Hot and Sour Soup healthy?
Yes! It’s low in calories and high in protein and nutrients.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely—just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip meat.

What’s the best vinegar to use?
Rice vinegar is traditional, but white vinegar works in a pinch.

Can I prepare it ahead?
Yes, but add the eggs just before serving for best texture.

Why This Recipe Works

This Hot and Sour Soup recipe balances traditional flavors with easy-to-find ingredients. It’s quick, customizable, and tastes just like the one you’d order at a Chinese restaurant. The tangy broth, silky egg ribbons, and earthy mushrooms make it both refreshing and comforting.

For fans of Chinese soup recipes, this one is an essential addition to your kitchen.

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