Name: Easy Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup Recipe Ready in 25 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon white pepper; 1 tablespoon chili oil; 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening); 1 cup tofu, cubed; 1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms; 1/4 cup bamboo shoots, sliced; 1 each egg, beaten; 2 each scallions, chopped (for garnish)

When it comes to warm, comforting bowls of goodness, nothing quite compares to a steaming bowl of Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup. The aromatic blend of flavors dancing on your taste buds, the tantalizing heat from the chili oil, and the umami richness of the vegetable broth come together to create a symphony that is nothing short of magical. Picture this: you’ve just returned home from a long day, and the only thing that sounds good is a snuggly blanket alongside this hearty, delicious soup.

Speaking of memories, I can still recall the first time I tasted this delicious creation at a small, family-run Chinese restaurant tucked away in a busy corner of my hometown. As I took that first sip, it felt as if my taste buds had been taken on an adventure across the globe. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends during your next get-together, this easy-to-make Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup is destined to delight.

Why You'll Love This Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

This incredible Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup:

4 cups vegetable broth – A flavorful base that acts as the heart of this soup; feel free to swap with chicken broth for non-vegetarians.

2 tablespoons soy sauce – This ingredient adds umami and depth; low-sodium soy sauce is a great substitute if you’re watching your salt intake.

3 tablespoons rice vinegar – Bringing in that essential tanginess that balances the heat and richness of the soup.

1 teaspoon white pepper – Provides a gentle spiciness and warmth that complements the other flavors beautifully.

1 tablespoon chili oil – Use this to add a fragrant kick; adjust the amount based on your preference for heat.

2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water – This combination acts as a thickening agent to give the soup the perfect consistency.

1 cup tofu, cubed – A great source of protein that adds a delightful texture; choose firm or extra-firm tofu for the best results.

1/2 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms – These mushrooms contribute earthy notes and chewiness, making every spoonful satisfying.

1/4 cup bamboo shoots, sliced – They provide a delightful crunch that adds to the overall texture of the soup.

1 egg, beaten – This is stirred in at the end to create beautiful, delicate ribbons throughout the soup.

2 scallions, chopped – These lovely green accents add freshness and a mild onion flavor to your finished dish.

How to Make Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup:

Step 1: Bring Broth to a Simmer
Start by pouring the vegetable broth into a large pot and heat it over medium-high heat. You want it to reach a gentle simmer—it’s like giving your soup a warm-up before the real magic begins!

Step 2: Add the Flavors
Incorporate the soy sauce, rice vinegar, white pepper, and chili oil into the simmering broth. Allow it all to mingle together for about 2-3 minutes, letting those beautiful aromas waft through your kitchen like a savory hug.

Step 3: Stir in the Goodness
Add the cubed tofu, sliced shiitake mushrooms, and bamboo shoots. Let your concoction simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry together. Just picture the colors blending in that pot—it’s like a vibrant party!

Step 4: Thicken That Broth
Slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring constantly. Keep stirring until the broth thickens slightly, which will create that wonderful mouthfeel we all love in a good soup.

Step 5: Create Those Egg Ribbons
With the heat lowered to low, slowly drizzle in the beaten egg while gently stirring the soup. You’ll see beautiful ribbons form as the egg cooks—trust me, this is where the magic happens!

Step 6: Final Touches
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Scoop it into bowls, garnish with chopped scallions, and watch as your friends and family flock to the table, drawn by the irresistible aroma.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Now you have an incredible Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup that’s not only comforting but also brings joy to everyone who gets a taste! Whether you’re curling up on the couch or having friends over for a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to shine. Happy cooking!

You Must Know About Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

This showstopping Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup Cooking Process

To achieve peak flavor, start by bringing the vegetable broth to a simmer. While it warms, prepare your tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots so everything is ready to add in one smooth swoop. This will keep your soup at optimal heat and speed up cooking.

Add Your Touch to Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

Feel free to customize your soup by adding ingredients like bell peppers for a sweet crunch or bok choy for additional greens. Swap tofu with chicken or shrimp if you prefer meat, and tweak the chili oil for that perfect spice level.

Storing & Reheating Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, simply warm it over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

This professional-quality Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Making this soup for my family turned into a delightful surprise—they couldn’t stop raving about it! Even my picky eater cousin went back for seconds, which felt like a culinary victory.

FAQs About Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

What is Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup?

Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup is a traditional dish known for its bold and contrasting flavors. It combines the heat of white pepper with the tang of vinegar, creating a delightful balance. Commonly featuring ingredients like tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots, this soup is both hearty and satisfying. It often showcases a velvety texture achieved by incorporating beaten egg, while the addition of chili oil brings a delightful depth. This soup is perfect as an appetizer or a comforting main dish, particularly on chilly nights.

What are the key ingredients in Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup?

The key ingredients in Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup include vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and white pepper for the signature flavor profile. Tofu, shiitake mushrooms, and bamboo shoots provide texture and substance to the dish. A cornstarch slurry thickens the soup, while a drizzle of beaten egg creates the beautiful ribbon-like appearance that’s characteristic of this delicacy. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the complex flavors that make the soup so beloved.

Can I customize my Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup?

Absolutely! One of the joys of making Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup is its versatility. You can add vegetables like bell peppers or bok choy for extra crunch and flavor. For those who prefer a protein component, swapping tofu for chicken or shrimp can create a delightful twist. Adjusting the amount of chili oil allows you to customize the spice level to your liking. Feel free to experiment until you find the perfect balance that suits your taste buds.

How should I store leftovers of Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup?

Storing leftovers of Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup is simple. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to four days. When it’s time to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat. If the soup thickens upon refrigeration, simply add a splash of vegetable broth to restore its desired consistency. Enjoy that cozy flavor all over again!

Conclusion for Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup

Chinese Style Hot and Sour Soup is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that can be quickly made in just 25 minutes. With its balance of heat and tanginess, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. The simplicity of the ingredients, coupled with the ability to customize, makes it a hit among family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or enjoying it as a main dish, this soup is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and dive into this delicious experience!