How to Make Chinese Vegetable Hot and Sour Soup
Chinese Vegetable Hot and Sour Soup is a delicious and flavorful dish that embodies the perfect balance of spicy and tangy flavors. This vegan-friendly soup is not only easy to make at home but also packed with fresh vegetables and tofu, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. Follow this simple recipe to learn how to make this classic Chinese dish.
Ingredients
To prepare Chinese Vegetable Hot and Sour Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (preferably shiitake or button mushrooms)
- 1 cup firm tofu, cubed
- 1 cup bamboo shoots, sliced
- 1 cup baby corn, cut into pieces
- 1 cup spinach or bok choy, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon chili paste or sauce (adjust for spiciness)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (for thickening)
- Sesame oil for drizzling
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- White pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large pot, pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to infuse the flavors into the broth.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Tofu
Once the broth is simmering, add the sliced mushrooms, cubed tofu, bamboo shoots, and baby corn to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Season the Soup
Next, stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and white pepper. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. For a spicier kick, add more chili paste.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the simmering soup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Allow the soup to thicken for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Finish with Greens
In the final stages of cooking, add the chopped spinach or bok choy. Stir until the greens are wilted, which should take just a couple of minutes. Remove the pot from heat.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
To serve, ladle the hot and sour soup into bowls. Drizzle a bit of sesame oil on top and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this homemade Chinese Vegetable Hot and Sour Soup!
Variations and Tips
Feel free to customize your soup by adding other vegetables like carrots, peppers, or snow peas. Adjust the level of sourness and spiciness according to your taste preferences. This versatile soup can be enjoyed as a starter or a light meal paired with rice or noodles.
Making Chinese Vegetable Hot and Sour Soup at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine. With fresh ingredients and easy steps, you can indulge in this warm, hearty soup anytime!