Sour Spicy Soup has always been my go-to comfort food, especially on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I tried a truly authentic hot and sour soup at a little place downtown; the explosion of tangy vinegar and warming chili heat was unforgettable. It felt like a culinary adventure in a bowl! Making an easy hot and sour soup at home seemed daunting, but I’ve discovered it’s surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. The aroma of ginger, mushrooms, and a hint of spice filling my kitchen instantly transports me. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Sour Spicy Soup
This Sour Spicy Soup is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly flavorful hot and sour soup, offering that perfect balance of tangy and spicy that wakes up your taste buds. You’ll love how quick it is to make, with most of the prep done in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It’s also a surprisingly healthy option, packed with vegetables and lean protein. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on authentic Asian flavors. This flavorful hot and sour soup is also family-friendly, as you can easily adjust the spice level to suit everyone. It’s a truly satisfying and comforting bowl!
Ingredients for Authentic Hot and Sour Soup
Gathering the right ingredients for hot and sour soup is key to that signature flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 lb (250g) pork loin or tenderloin, thinly sliced – this gives the soup a savory depth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (optional) – adds a subtle complexity
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 4 cups chicken broth – the flavorful base
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup shiitake or wood ear mushrooms, thinly sliced – for that earthy, umami bite
- 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, julienned – adds a delightful crisp texture
- 200g firm tofu, cut into matchsticks – a classic protein addition
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten – creates silky ribbons when swirled in
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar or black vinegar – this is where the sour comes from!
- 1½ tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste) – for that essential spicy kick
- 1 tbsp sesame oil – adds a nutty aroma
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry) – to thicken the broth
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish – for a fresh finish
How to Make Hot and Sour Soup
Making this delicious Chinese hot and sour soup at home is easier than you think! Follow these steps for a restaurant-quality bowl every time.
- Step 1: Start by marinating your pork. In a small bowl, combine the thinly sliced pork loin with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (if using), and 1 tsp cornstarch. Toss everything together well and let it sit for at least 10 minutes while you prep other ingredients. This step tenderizes the pork and adds a subtle savory flavor.
- Step 2: In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring 4 cups chicken broth and 2 cups water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. The aroma of the broth starting to bubble is so inviting!
- Step 3: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the sliced mushrooms, julienned bamboo shoots, and tofu matchsticks. Let this simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Step 4: Now, add the marinated pork slices to the simmering broth. Stir gently to separate the pieces and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the pork is no longer pink and cooked through. You’ll see the little bits of cornstarch help the pork cook beautifully.
- Step 5: Time to build that signature flavor! Stir in the 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or black vinegar for a deeper taste), 1½ tbsp chili garlic sauce (add more or less depending on your spice preference!), and 1 tbsp sesame oil. Taste and adjust with a little more soy sauce, salt, or white pepper if needed. This is how to make hot and sour soup truly your own.
- Step 6: Prepare the cornstarch slurry by whisking together 2 tbsp cornstarch and 2 tbsp water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly drizzle this slurry into the simmering soup while stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for another 1–2 minutes until the broth thickens to your desired consistency.
- Step 7: This is a fun part! Slowly drizzle the lightly beaten egg into the soup in a thin, steady stream while gently stirring the soup in one direction. This creates those beautiful, delicate ribbons of egg throughout the broth.
- Step 8: Ladle the piping hot soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions if you like, and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade, flavorful hot and sour soup!
Pro Tips for the Best Tangy Spicy Soup
Want to elevate your homemade soup game? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up to make this Tangy Spicy Soup truly shine:
- Use a good quality black vinegar, like Chinkiang vinegar, for a deeper, more complex sourness than regular rice vinegar.
- Don’t skip the marinating step for the pork! It makes a huge difference in the tenderness and flavor of the meat.
- Taste and adjust seasonings *after* adding the vinegar and chili sauce. This is crucial for getting the balance just right.
- If you prefer it thicker, you can add a little more cornstarch slurry, but do it a tablespoon at a time to avoid a gummy texture.
What’s the secret to perfect Hot and Sour Soup?
The secret to a truly authentic hot and sour soup lies in the balance of sour and spicy elements. Using good quality vinegars and chili garlic sauce, and tasting as you go to adjust, is key. Don’t be afraid to play with the ratios to find your perfect flavor profile. For more tips on flavor balancing, check out this guide on how to balance flavors.
Can I make Spicy Sour Broth ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the broth base, including the vegetables and pork, ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the base and then add the egg ribbons and cornstarch slurry just before serving for the best texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Spicy Sour Soup?
A common pitfall is adding the cornstarch slurry too quickly, which can lead to clumps. Always whisk it smooth and drizzle it in slowly while stirring. Another mistake is overcooking the pork, making it tough; cook it just until it’s no longer pink. Finally, ensure your vinegar and chili sauce are fresh for the best flavor. Learn more about common cooking mistakes to avoid.
Best Ways to Serve Sour Spicy Soup
This versatile soup is fantastic on its own, but I love serving it with a few complementary items. For a truly hearty meal, consider pairing it with some steamed rice or fluffy bao buns to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth. If you’re craving something more substantial, you can easily transform this into a delightful spicy and sour noodle soup by adding cooked noodles directly to the bowls before ladling in the hot soup. It’s also wonderful alongside some simple steamed vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. You might also enjoy these easy family dinners.
Nutrition Facts for Sour Spicy Soup
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for a typical serving of this delightful Sour Spicy Soup:
- Calories: 150-200 (estimates vary)
- Fat: 5-8g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugar: 3-5g
- Sodium: 800-1200mg (can vary based on broth and soy sauce)
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of broth and any added sodium from soy sauce or chili paste.
How to Store and Reheat Homemade Hot and Sour Soup
Properly storing and reheating your delicious Sour Spicy Soup ensures you can enjoy its amazing flavors again. Once the soup has cooled completely, which usually takes about an hour on the counter, divide it into airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it should keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the base soup (without the egg ribbons) for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. For more storage tips, check out this guide on how to store leftover soup.
When you’re ready to reheat your Homemade hot and sour soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. For reheating from the fridge or freezer, use a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it might take a bit longer. Once heated, you can add fresh egg ribbons and a touch more chili garlic sauce or vinegar to brighten the flavors before serving your fantastic Asian spicy sour soup. You might also like these last recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sour Spicy Soup
What is hot and sour soup?
Hot and sour soup is a classic Chinese soup known for its distinctive flavor profile. It’s characterized by a savory, slightly sweet, tangy, and spicy broth, often featuring ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, bamboo shoots, and sometimes pork or chicken. The name itself perfectly describes its delightful taste combination!
Why is hot and sour soup popular?
Its popularity stems from its incredibly satisfying and complex flavor. The interplay of acidic vinegar and warming chili heat creates a stimulating taste experience that many find addictive. It’s also a comforting and often healthy option, making it a favorite for both casual dining and as a starter for more elaborate meals. This Asian spicy sour soup really hits the spot!
Can I make this Sour Spicy Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a delicious vegetarian hot and sour soup, simply omit the pork and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra mushrooms or even some firm tofu for added heartiness. It’s a simple swap that keeps all the amazing flavor intact. For more vegetarian ideas, explore these easy meat recipes.
How do I adjust the spice level in my Sour Spicy Soup?
Adjusting the spice is super easy! The key ingredient for heat is the chili garlic sauce. Start with the amount suggested in the recipe, and then taste the soup after adding it. If you want it spicier, simply add more chili garlic sauce, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired level of warmth. This ensures your homemade hot and sour soup is perfect for your palate.
Variations of Sour Spicy Soup You Can Try
While this classic recipe is amazing, there are several ways to customize your Sour Spicy Soup to suit your preferences. For a fantastic vegetarian hot and sour soup, simply omit the pork and use a good quality vegetable broth. You can also add extra mushrooms or even some firm tofu to make it heartier. If you’re craving a more substantial meal, turning this into a spicy sour noodle dish is incredibly easy. Just cook your favorite noodles separately and add them to the bowls before serving the hot soup over them. Another popular variation involves adding shredded chicken breast for a protein boost. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different mushrooms, like enoki or oyster mushrooms, for varied textures and flavors! You might also enjoy our honey lime chicken variations.
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Sour Spicy Soup: Flavor Burst in 10 Mins
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-5 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Sour and Spicy Soup, also known as Hot and Sour Soup, is a bold and flavorful Chinese dish. It features a tangy vinegar and chili heat base, combined with mushrooms, tofu, and tender pork. This restaurant-style recipe is comforting, healthy, and easily customizable, perfect for weeknight dinners or anyone craving authentic Asian flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb (250g) pork loin or tenderloin, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (optional)
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup shiitake or wood ear mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, julienned
- 200g firm tofu, cut into matchsticks
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar or black vinegar
- 1½ tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate pork: Toss pork slices with soy sauce, cornstarch, and Shaoxing wine. Set aside.
- Boil broth: In a large pot, bring chicken broth and water to a boil.
- Add veggies & tofu: Stir in mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Cook pork: Add marinated pork and simmer 2–3 minutes until cooked.
- Season: Add vinegar, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, and adjust with soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Thicken: Stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add egg: Drizzle beaten egg slowly while stirring to form silky ribbons.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with green onions, and enjoy hot.
Notes
- Adjust spice with more or less chili garlic sauce to suit your taste.
- For a vegetarian version, omit pork and use vegetable broth.
- Add noodles for a Sichuan hot and sour noodle soup variation.
- For a cabbage twist, add 2 cups shredded cabbage and skip pork.
- Freeze base soup only—add fresh tofu and egg after reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Keywords: Sour Spicy Soup, Hot and Sour Soup, Spicy and sour noodle soup, Easy hot and sour soup, Authentic hot and sour soup, Chinese hot and sour soup, Vegetarian hot and sour soup, Spicy sour broth recipe, Tangy spicy soup, Flavorful hot and sour soup, Quick hot and sour soup recipe, Homemade hot and sour soup, Asian spicy sour soup
