Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup

Hot and Sour Soup is a delightful dish that combines spicy and tangy flavors, making it an ideal addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something warm and hearty, this Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup is perfect for various occasions. With its quick preparation time and rich taste, you’ll be amazed at how easily you can whip up this classic dish in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: A blend of mushrooms, carrots, and spices creates a rich flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile: Customize the heat level and ingredient selection to suit your family’s preferences.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from tofu and essential vitamins from vegetables, this soup is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Comforting Warmth: Perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather, this soup offers warmth and comfort.

Tools and Preparation

To make the preparation process smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium-sized pot
• Small bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium-sized pot: Ideal for simmering the ingredients together without spilling over.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing the cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup effectively.
• Whisk or fork: Helps in beating the eggs smoothly before adding them to the soup.
• Chopping board & knife: Essential for efficiently prepping your vegetables and tofu.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 4 cups chicken stock (low sodium)
• 1/2 cup seafood mushrooms (ends removed (or sub with button mushrooms))
• 1/2 cup soft tofu (cut into 1/4-inch thick strips (or sub with medium to firm tofu))

For Flavoring

• 1/4 cup carrot (julienned)
• 5 shiitake mushrooms (sliced)
• 1-2 tbsp red chili (sliced (optional))
• 1 green onion (finely chopped)

For Seasoning

• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1/2 tbsp regular soy sauce
• 2 tsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp chicken bouillon powder
• 1/4 tsp white granulated sugar

For Thickening

• 2 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch)
• 1/4 cup water (cold)

For Finishing Touches

• 2 tbsp white vinegar (add more if you like it more sour)
• salt & white pepper (season to taste)

How to Make Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry

In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with cold water until well mixed. Set this cornstarch slurry aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook the Stock

Pour the chicken stock into a medium-sized pot. Season it by adding regular soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, chicken bouillon powder, and sesame oil. Stir thoroughly to mix all ingredients well.

Step 3: Bring Stock to a Boil

Cover the pot and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Simmer

Once boiling, reduce heat to low-medium. Add in sliced shiitake mushrooms, julienned carrots, seafood mushrooms, and red chili pepper. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Tofu

Gently lower in strips of soft tofu into the pot. Carefully stir without breaking up the tofu too much.

Step 6: Thicken the Soup

Stir in your prepared cornstarch slurry into the soup mixture. Let it simmer for another 30–60 seconds until slightly thickened.

Step 7: Create Egg Ribbons

While stirring the soup in a circular motion, slowly pour in beaten eggs in a thin stream. Stir again gently to form ribbons of egg throughout.

Step 8: Final Seasoning

Add chopped green onions and season with white vinegar, salt, and white pepper according to your taste preferences. Enjoy your delicious Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup!

How to Serve Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup

Serving Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup can elevate your meal and impress your guests. This soup is versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of fragrance and freshness.
• Basil: Add Thai basil leaves for a unique twist that complements the soup’s spiciness.

Include Crunchy Toppings

• Chili Oil: Drizzle a little chili oil over the soup for an extra kick.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds: Scatter toasted sesame seeds for added texture and nuttiness.

Pair with Rice or Noodles

• Jasmine Rice: Serve with steamed jasmine rice to balance the soup’s flavors.
• Rice Noodles: Add cooked rice noodles to the soup for a hearty meal.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce Mixture: Offer a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili paste as a dipping sauce for appetizers.
• Spicy Garlic Sauce: Provide a spicy garlic sauce for those who enjoy more heat.

How to Perfect Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup

Perfecting your Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup is simple with a few handy tips. These suggestions will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like mushrooms and carrots enhance flavor significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of red chili used in the recipe.
• Be Mindful of Thickness: Monitor the cornstarch slurry closely to achieve your desired thickness without overcooking.
• Experiment with Acidity: Try different types of vinegar, such as rice vinegar, for varying sourness levels.

Best Side Dishes for Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup can create a balanced meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Lightly fried or fresh spring rolls filled with veggies provide a nice crunch.
2. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with vegetables or chicken serve as a hearty complement to the soup.
3. Asian Slaw Salad: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crispness.
4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick stir-fried bok choy offers a nutritious green element alongside your soup.
5. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds brightness to your meal.
6. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles tossed in peanut sauce make for a delightful side dish that pairs well with hot soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup can be quick and satisfying, but it’s essential to avoid common mistakes that could affect the outcome.

• Skipping the Stock: Using plain water instead of chicken stock can make the soup bland. Always use a good quality stock for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking the Tofu: Adding the tofu too early can cause it to break apart. Add it gently in the last stages of cooking to keep its texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Not tasting for seasoning before serving can lead to a flat soup. Adjust with soy sauce, vinegar, or salt as needed for balance.
• Not Using a Slurry: Failing to prepare a cornstarch slurry can result in a thin soup. Make sure to mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to thicken your soup effectively.
• Forgetting Garnishes: Skipping fresh garnishes like green onions can reduce the freshness of the dish. Always add them just before serving for a burst of flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup

• Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months.
• Leave some space in containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered in a baking dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in microwave-safe bowls, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup that may help you perfect your dish.

Can I make Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth and use extra mushrooms or vegetables for added flavor.

What can I use instead of seafood mushrooms?

You can replace seafood mushrooms with button mushrooms or any other variety you prefer.

How do I adjust the spice level in Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup?

To increase spice, add more red chili slices or include chili paste. To decrease spice, simply omit the chili peppers altogether.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers, bok choy, or snow peas for extra nutrients and color.

What is the best way to serve Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup?

Serve hot as an appetizer or alongside rice dishes for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

This Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup is both delicious and versatile, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely lunches. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, you can adjust it according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Enjoy this quick and delicious Easy 20-min. Hot and Sour Soup that’s packed with flavor! Try it today for a delightful meal experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups chicken stock (low sodium)
• 1/2 cup button mushrooms
• 1/2 cup soft tofu
• 1/4 cup carrot (julienned)
• 5 shiitake mushrooms (sliced)
• 1–2 tbsp red chili (sliced, optional)
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch)
• 1/2 tbsp regular soy sauce
• 2 tsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp chicken bouillon powder
• 1/4 tsp white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water (cold)
• 2 tbsp white vinegar (add more if you like it more sour)
• salt & white pepper (season to taste)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cornstarch slurry by mixing with cold water in a small bowl.
2. In a medium pot, combine chicken stock, soy sauces, sugar, chicken bouillon powder, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil.
3. Lower the heat and add shiitake mushrooms, carrots, button mushrooms, and chili pepper. Simmer uncovered for about 1–2 minutes.
4. Gently add strips of tofu and stir carefully.
5. Incorporate the cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened (30–60 seconds).
6. Slowly pour in beaten eggs while stirring to form ribbons.
7. Add green onions, vinegar, salt, and white pepper to taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 186mg