There’s something magical about a bowl of hot and sour soup. It warms you up on a cold day, soothes your senses when you’re feeling under the weather, and always seems to hit the perfect balance of tangy and spicy. This classic dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and easy to make.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone trying their hand at soup for the first time, this recipe is your guide to mastering hot and sour soup with ease. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather these ingredients to ensure your soup is packed with authentic flavors:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken broth or vegetable broth	8 cups
Shiitake mushrooms (or baby bella mushrooms)	8 ounces, thinly sliced
Bamboo shoots (optional)	1 (8-ounce) can, drained
Rice vinegar	¼ cup (adjust to taste)
Low-sodium soy sauce	¼ cup
Ground ginger	2 teaspoons
Chili garlic sauce	1 teaspoon
Cornstarch	¼ cup
Eggs	2 large, whisked
Firm tofu	8 ounces, cut into ½-inch cubes
Green onions	4, thinly sliced
Toasted sesame oil	1 teaspoon
Kosher salt and white/black pepper	To taste

What Makes Hot and Sour Soup Special?

Balancing Act: The combination of tangy vinegar and spicy chili garlic sauce creates a unique harmony of flavors.
Nutritional Benefits: Packed with protein from tofu and eggs, plus nutrients from mushrooms and broth, this soup is as healthy as it is tasty.
Customizable: You can adjust the heat, add vegetables, or swap proteins to fit your preferences.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Hot and Sour Soup

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Slice mushrooms thinly and drain the bamboo shoots if using.
Cut tofu into small, even cubes.
Whisk the eggs in a small bowl until well beaten.

2. Make the Base

In a large pot, bring 8 cups of chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add sliced mushrooms and bamboo shoots to the broth. Let them simmer for 5–7 minutes.

3. Season the Soup

Stir in ¼ cup rice vinegar, ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce, 2 teaspoons ground ginger, and 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce.
Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed for your desired balance of tanginess and spice.

4. Thicken the Soup

Mix ¼ cup cornstarch with ¼ cup of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly pour it into the simmering soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Allow the soup to thicken, which should take about 2–3 minutes.

5. Add the Eggs

Slowly drizzle the whisked eggs into the soup in a thin stream, stirring gently with a fork to create ribbons of cooked egg.

6. Finish with Tofu and Sesame Oil

Gently add tofu cubes to the pot and simmer for another 2 minutes.
Stir in 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil for a nutty, aromatic finish.

7. Garnish and Serve

Top with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of white or black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Hot and Sour Soup

1. Choose the Right Mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms are traditional and provide a robust flavor, but baby bella mushrooms are a great substitute if needed.

2. Control the Heat

Adjust the chili garlic sauce to suit your spice tolerance. You can also use red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

3. Use Fresh Tofu

Firm tofu holds its shape well in soups, but silken tofu can be used for a creamier texture.

4. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch Slurry

This step gives the soup its signature thick, velvety consistency. Make sure the slurry is well mixed before adding it to the pot.

5. Garnish Wisely

Green onions and a dash of sesame oil enhance the soup’s aroma and flavor, making it more vibrant and appealing.

Serving Suggestions

Main Course: Enjoy this soup on its own for a light yet filling meal.
Side Dish: Pair it with fried rice, dumplings, or spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Beverage Pairing: A warm cup of green tea or a cold glass of iced jasmine tea complements the flavors beautifully.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (serves 4):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210
Protein	14g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	9g
Fiber	2g

Variations to Try

Vegetarian Version

Use vegetable broth and skip the eggs for a vegan-friendly option. Add more tofu or vegetables like carrots and spinach for extra heartiness.

Protein Boost

Swap tofu with shredded chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed variation.

Extra Vegetables

Add bok choy, napa cabbage, or bell peppers for additional texture and flavor.

Gluten-Free Option

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

FAQs About Hot and Sour Soup

1. How long does hot and sour soup last in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

2. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but avoid adding the cornstarch and eggs before freezing. Add these ingredients when reheating for the best texture.

3. What can I substitute for tofu?
If you’re not a fan of tofu, use shredded chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas as a substitute.

4. Is hot and sour soup healthy?
Absolutely! It’s low in calories, high in protein, and loaded with nutrients from the mushrooms, tofu, and broth.

5. Can I make it spicier?
Yes! Add more chili garlic sauce, red pepper flakes, or fresh chilies to increase the heat.

6. How do I make it less tangy?
Reduce the amount of rice vinegar, or balance it out by adding a teaspoon of sugar to mellow the tanginess.

Conclusion: Why Hot and Sour Soup Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen

Hot and sour soup is more than just a meal—it’s a flavorful experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With its perfect balance of spice and tang, rich textures, and endless customization options, it’s a dish that suits any occasion.

Now that you’ve got the recipe and tips, it’s time to grab your ingredients and start cooking. Trust us, once you’ve tried this soup, it’ll become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation.