Hot And Sour Soup(Meatless)
A flavorful meatless hot and sour soup with earthy mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu, balanced with tangy vinegar and spicy white pepper, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the dried Chinese mushrooms, dried tree ears, and lily buds in a bowl of hot water to soak for about 10 minutes.
- Drain the soaked ingredients and add them to a pot with 4 cups of chicken broth.
- Add shredded bamboo shoots and bean curd (tofu) to the pot.
- Stir in soy sauce, vinegar, and white pepper.
- Dissolve cornstarch in 5 tablespoons of water and add to the soup, stirring constantly until it thickens.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a dash of chili oil for heat. If you can't find dried tree ears, they can be substituted with fresh shiitake mushrooms. To make the soup gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Adjust the vinegar to taste, as some prefer a tangier broth. This soup can also be customized with vegetables like bok choy or snow peas for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hot and sour soup in individual bowls garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with Dan Dan Mien or can be enjoyed as a starter before a main dish. Consider serving with crusty bread or rice to soak up the flavorful broth, making it a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hot and sour soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If the soup thickens too much while stored, you can add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot And Sour Soup(Meatless) contains roughly 1061 calories, with 19g protein, 215g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2728mg per serving (119% 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 spicy?
Absolutely! You can easily add heat by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a few drops of chili oil to the broth. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice preference. This will give the soup a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to chicken broth?
Yes, for a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. This maintains the depth of flavor while keeping the dish meatless. You can also enhance the umami by adding a tablespoon of miso paste or using mushroom broth.
Can I freeze hot and sour soup?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze hot and sour soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water if needed.
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).