Amazing Sour Spicy Soup in 30 Minutes

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Sour Spicy Soup has always been my go-to when I need a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and invigorating. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a vibrant dance of tangy vinegar and fiery chili heat that wakes up your senses. It’s no wonder this dish, often called Hot and Sour Soup, is a favorite worldwide. The rich, savory base of a good Spicy Sour Broth is incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for a chilly evening or whenever you crave something truly delicious. I’ve discovered that making this restaurant-style soup at home is surprisingly simple, bringing those authentic Chinese flavors right to your kitchen table in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Sour Spicy Soup

You’re going to adore this simple recipe for so many reasons:

Quick Prep Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Comforting & Healthy: A warm, nourishing bowl that’s packed with vegetables and lean protein.
Completely Customizable: Easily adjust the spice and tang to your exact preference.
Restaurant-Style Flavor: Enjoy authentic Chinese flavors without leaving your kitchen.
Easy Hot and Sour Soup: This recipe makes it foolproof to achieve that classic taste.
Flavorful Soup: Every spoonful delivers a delightful balance of savory, sour, and spicy notes.
Versatile: Great as a starter or a light meal on its own.

Ingredients for Authentic Hot and Sour Soup

Gathering these Hot and Sour Soup Ingredients is the first step to creating a truly delicious and Tangy Soup. You’ll need:

1/2 lb (250g) pork loin or tenderloin, thinly sliced – slice it very thinly for quick cooking.
1 tbsp soy sauce – adds depth and saltiness.
1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (optional) – for authentic Chinese flavor.
1 tsp cornstarch – helps tenderize the pork.
4 cups chicken broth – the savory base of our soup.
2 cups water – to get the right broth consistency.
1 cup shiitake or wood ear mushrooms, thinly sliced – these add wonderful texture and umami.
1/2 cup bamboo shoots, julienned – for that classic crunchy element.
200g firm tofu, cut into matchsticks – a great vegetarian option that soaks up flavor.
1 large egg, lightly beaten – to create those silky ribbons.
1/4 cup rice vinegar or black vinegar – essential for the signature sourness.
1½ tbsp chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste) – this brings the heat!
1 tbsp sesame oil – for a nutty aroma and finish.
2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry) – this is key for thickening the broth.
Salt and white pepper, to taste – for final seasoning adjustments.
Optional: chopped green onions for garnish – adds freshness and color.

How to Make Sour Spicy Soup

Let’s dive into creating this delicious soup. It’s simpler than you think to achieve that perfect Spicy Tangy Broth Recipe right in your own kitchen.

Step 1: Start by marinating the pork. In a small bowl, toss the thinly sliced pork with 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp cornstarch, and the optional 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes while you prep other ingredients.
Step 2: Get the broth going. In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the 4 cups chicken broth and 2 cups water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add the veggies and tofu. Stir in the sliced mushrooms, julienned bamboo shoots, and tofu matchsticks. Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Cook the pork. Add the marinated pork slices to the simmering broth. Stir gently and cook for just 2–3 minutes, or until the pork is no longer pink. Be careful not to overcook it!
Step 5: Season the soup. Stir in the 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 1½ tbsp chili garlic sauce, and 1 tbsp sesame oil. Taste and adjust with a little more soy sauce, salt, or white pepper if needed.
Step 6: Thicken the broth. Give the cornstarch and water slurry a quick stir, then slowly drizzle it into the pot while stirring constantly. Let the soup simmer for another minute or two until it reaches your desired thickness.
Step 7: Create egg ribbons. Slowly drizzle the lightly beaten egg into the simmering soup in a thin stream while gently stirring in a circular motion. This creates beautiful, silky ribbons that are a hallmark of authentic hot and sour soup.
Step 8: Serve immediately. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions if you like, and enjoy this flavorful hot and sour soup while it’s piping hot!

Pro Tips for the Best Sour Spicy Soup

Want to elevate your soup game? These tips will guarantee a fantastic bowl every time:

Use a good quality black vinegar for a deeper, richer tang.
Don’t be shy with the chili garlic sauce; it’s the heart of the heat.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end – balance is key!
For extra depth, try adding a splash of dark soy sauce for color.

What’s the secret to a perfect Sour Spicy Soup?

The real magic lies in balancing the sour and spicy elements. Using a high-quality black vinegar and a flavorful chili garlic sauce makes a huge difference in the overall Flavor Combination Sour Spicy Soup. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the vinegar and chili sauce until it’s just right for you. For more flavor inspiration, check out these easy summer recipes.

Can I make this Sour Spicy Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the base! Store the broth with vegetables and tofu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, then add the cooked pork and the egg ribbons just before serving for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hot and Sour Soup?

A common pitfall is overcooking the pork – it should be just cooked through. Also, ensure your cornstarch slurry is smooth; lumps can make the broth unevenly thick. Finally, always taste and adjust the vinegar and chili sauce at the end for that perfect spicy and sour balance. You can find more tips on achieving perfect flavor balance in various recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Sour Spicy Soup

This vibrant Sour Spicy Soup is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. I love serving it piping hot as an appetizer before a main course, or as a light yet satisfying meal on its own. A sprinkle of fresh, chopped green onions adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the soup beautifully. For a heartier option, consider transforming it into a wonderful Spicy Sour Noodle Soup by adding some cooked noodles right before serving. It also pairs wonderfully with other favorite Asian dishes. For a refreshing drink pairing, try a watermelon lemonade.

Variations of Sour Spicy Soup You Can Try

This versatile soup base is perfect for customization. If you’re looking for a Vegetarian Hot and Sour Soup, simply omit the pork and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also explore different mushroom varieties; oyster mushrooms or even fresh button mushrooms work well, adding unique textures and flavors. For a heartier meal, transforming it into a Spicy Sour Noodle Soup is a fantastic idea – just add your favorite cooked noodles like ramen or udon to the finished soup. If you prefer poultry, using chicken broth and adding thinly sliced chicken breast makes a delicious Chicken Hot and Sour Soup. You might also enjoy these Italian cream soda recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sour Spicy Soup

What is Hot and Sour Soup?

Hot and Sour Soup, or Sour Spicy Soup as I like to call it, is a classic Chinese soup known for its bold flavor profile. It’s characterized by a delightful combination of spicy heat, typically from chili peppers or chili garlic sauce, and a tangy sourness, usually from vinegar. This popular Asian Hot and Sour Soup often includes ingredients like mushrooms, tofu, and sometimes pork or chicken, creating a complex and satisfying broth. For more information on Chinese cuisine, you can explore resources on Chinese cuisine.

Why is Hot and Sour Soup popular?

Its popularity stems from its incredibly satisfying flavor contrast. The interplay of spicy and sour is incredibly stimulating to the palate, making it a favorite for many. It’s also incredibly comforting, especially on a cold day, and it’s known for its perceived health benefits and its ability to clear sinuses! Many people seek out the Best Hot and Sour Soup because it’s a flavor experience unlike any other, offering warmth and zest in every spoonful.

Can I make this Sour Spicy Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! It’s super easy to adapt this Sour Spicy Soup recipe for a vegetarian diet. Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the pork. You can enhance the umami flavor by adding more mushrooms, like shiitake or wood ear, or even some extra tofu. This makes for a wonderfully hearty and flavorful Vegetarian Hot and Sour Soup that doesn’t compromise on taste. Consider trying some salt variations for added depth.

How do I get the best flavor balance in my Sour Spicy Soup?

Achieving the perfect balance is key. My best tip is to taste and adjust the vinegar and chili garlic sauce towards the end of cooking. Start with the amounts in the recipe, then add more vinegar if you want it tangier, or more chili sauce if you prefer it spicier. A little soy sauce can also help round out the flavors. This careful adjustment ensures you get a truly delicious and satisfying bowl. For other flavorful drinks, explore homemade soda recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Sour Spicy Soup

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious soup:

Calories: 150
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 850mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Sour Spicy Soup

Properly storing your delicious Sour Spicy Soup ensures you can enjoy its bold flavors later. Once cooled, ladle any leftover soup into airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a great option, but it’s best to freeze the soup base without the tofu and egg ribbons. The soup base can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw the base overnight in the fridge. Gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add fresh tofu and re-create the silky egg ribbons just before serving for the best texture and flavor.