Chinese Hot And Sour Soup
A flavorful Chinese hot and sour soup combining tender pork, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, and a tangy, spicy broth, perfect for warming up and satisfying the palate.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain all canned items.
- Slice pork into tiny pieces.
- Lightly brown meat in oil in a 3-quart pan.
- Drain and set aside.
- In the same pan, bring broth to a boil.
- Add pork, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, and mushrooms.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add vinegar, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Blend cornstarch and water; stir into soup.
- Stir until slightly thickened and bubbly.
- Swirl the soup and pour beaten egg into the center; cook for 2 more minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh ingredients when possible. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the pork with firm tofu and use vegetable bouillon. Adjust the vinegar and soy sauce to taste for a balance of tanginess and saltiness. Adding a dash of sesame oil just before serving can enhance the dish's aroma. Explore more Chinese recipes to expand your culinary repertoire.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with sliced scallions or cilantro for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with Rena'S Chinese Chicken Casserole for a complete meal. Consider serving alongside steamed rice or crispy spring rolls to balance the flavors and textures. This soup can also be a perfect starter before a main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent thickening and reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving directly, as it can change the texture of the egg.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Hot And Sour Soup contains roughly 346 calories, with 10g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2250mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to add the egg just before serving. Reheat gently, and if the soup thickens, add a little water to adjust the consistency.
What can I substitute for bamboo shoots?
If you can't find bamboo shoots, you can use sliced bell peppers or carrots for a similar crunch. Alternatively, water chestnuts add a good texture and can be used alone if you prefer. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make the soup gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your bouillon is gluten-free. Most cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, but always check the label to be certain. This way, you can enjoy the flavors without gluten concerns.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).