Name: Quick Hot and Sour Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup tofu, cubed; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon chili paste; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening); Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Quick Hot and Sour Soup is a delightful, flavorful dish that brings together the perfect balance of heat and tang in a comforting broth. This soup is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also delivers a satisfying meal that can warm you up on a chilly day or refresh you on a hot evening. With its vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients, it’s a beautiful way to enjoy a taste of Asian cuisine right in your own kitchen.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 140
Protein: 9 grams
Carbohydrates: 10 grams
Fat: 7 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This Quick Hot and Sour Soup

This Quick Hot and Sour Soup shines as a simple recipe that brings a burst of Asian flavor into your home cooking. It’s not only quick to prepare but also gives you a wholesome bowl of goodness packed with vegetables and protein from tofu. The combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili paste provides a spicy and tangy punch, catering to those cold weather cravings or even as a sweltering summer dish. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy a nutritious vegetarian meal without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Quick Hot and Sour Soup

Ingredients:

4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup tofu, cubed
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon chili paste
1 teaspoon grated ginger
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a simmer over medium heat. This will form the flavorful base of your soup, ensuring all those savory ingredients come together.

Step 2: Mixing

Add the sliced mushrooms, cubed tofu, soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and grated ginger to the simmering broth. Stir everything gently to combine the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Cooking

Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the mushrooms to soften and infuse the broth with their earthy flavor while the tofu absorbs the delicious spices.

Step 4: Finishing

If you want to thicken your soup, mix cornstarch with a little bit of water until smooth, then stir it into the soup until it thickens to your liking. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remember, a little pinch can really enhance the flavors. Finally, garnish with the chopped green onions before serving for a fresh, crunchy finish.

How to Serve Quick Hot and Sour Soup

Quick Hot and Sour Soup is best served hot, so ladle it into bowls while still steaming. It makes a fantastic starter for an Asian-themed dinner. You can also serve it alongside fried rice or spring rolls for a complete meal. For an extra kick, offer additional chili paste on the side for those who love spice!

How to Store Quick Hot and Sour Soup

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. When reheating, do so over medium heat on the stovetop to maintain the soup’s texture and flavor. If you find the soup has thickened too much when stored, feel free to add a splash of water or broth during reheating.

Expert Tips for Perfect Quick Hot and Sour Soup

If you can’t find tofu, feel free to replace it with shredded chicken or even more mushrooms for a heartier vegetarian version.
Adjust the level of chili paste to your preference; start with a little and add more if you like heat.
Make sure to taste the broth as you cook to tweak the balance of flavors—this is your chance to perfect it!
Fresh ginger adds wonderful flavor, but you can use powdered ginger in a pinch, just remember it’s stronger.

Delicious Variations

Consider adding different vegetables like bok choy, spinach, or bell peppers to incorporate more nutrition and diversity in texture. You can also swap out the vegetable broth for chicken broth for a different flavor profile. For a richer experience, experiment with adding a few drops of sesame oil just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Quick Hot and Sour Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
What can I use instead of tofu?
You can use other proteins like chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.
How do I make the soup vegetarian?
All the ingredients listed are vegetarian, but make sure your broth is also vegetable-based to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make the soup spicier?
Absolutely! Add more chili paste or even red pepper flakes to kick up the heat.
What do I serve with Quick Hot and Sour Soup?
This soup pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or even spring rolls for a complete meal experience.

Conclusion

Quick Hot and Sour Soup is a flavorful, nourishing dish that anyone can make in a jiffy. With simple ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you can have a bowl of delicious soup ready in under 30 minutes! Whether it’s a chilly day or you just crave something comforting yet light, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds. So gather your ingredients and dive into the warm, comforting world of homemade hot and sour soup! Enjoy!