Hot and Sour Chicken Soup
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Hot and Sour Chicken Soup! This vibrant dish embodies a delightful combination of spicy and tangy flavors that awaken the senses. Imagine sipping a warm, savory broth filled with tender chicken, aromatic mushrooms, and the zing of vinegar – it’s pure bliss in a bowl! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; you can whip up this restaurant-quality soup in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish is sure to impress. Did you know that this soup has its roots in Chinese cuisine, traditionally enjoyed for its warming properties? Give it a try, and you might find it’s become your family’s new favorite meal, just like our easy-to-make Chicken Noodle Soup that you won’t want to miss exploring!
What is Hot and Sour Chicken Soup?
Ever wonder why we call it Hot and Sour Chicken Soup? It’s all in the name! This dish is a tantalizing mix of heat from spices and the tangy zest of vinegar, making your taste buds dance with joy. Fun fact: the perfect balance between hot and sour is like life’s delightful surprises – sometimes unexpected, but always worth the adventure! It’s said that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and trust me, with this soup, you won’t just capture hearts; you’ll warm them too! So, put on your apron and join the culinary adventure of making this delightful soup – you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Hot and Sour Chicken Soup:
Hot and Sour Chicken Soup is a unique dish that will steal the show at your dinner table. This vibrant soup is packed with protein, thanks to succulent chicken that adds heartiness to every spoonful. Making it at home means saving your pockets while enjoying a cozy dining experience. But it’s not just about the chicken; the synergistic blend of mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and the zing of chili paste creates layers of flavor that will make you long for another bowl. Compared to the classic Wonton Soup, this dish brings excitement with its fiery twist. So why wait? Dive into the kitchen and treat yourself to this savory delight!
How to Make Hot and Sour Chicken Soup:
Quick Overview
This Hot and Sour Chicken Soup is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a breeze to prepare! In just 30 minutes, you have a delightful soup that boasts a satisfying warmth, perfect for chilly days. With tender shredded chicken and a broth infused with exotic spices, your dinner is just a heartbeat away.
Key Ingredients for Hot and Sour Chicken Soup:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup bamboo shoots, drained
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a rolling boil. Add in the chicken breasts and let them simmer until fully cooked, approximately 15 minutes. Once done, remove and shred the chicken.
- Build the Flavor: In the same pot, add sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili paste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Thicken the Soup: Stir in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring to mix well. This will thicken the soup and make it heartier.
- Add the Egg: Gradually pour in the beaten egg, stirring gently to create ribbons in the soup.
- Final Seasoning: Taste your brilliant creation! Season with salt and pepper according to your liking.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and fresh coriander for a pop of color and flavor.
What to Serve Hot and Sour Chicken Soup With:
This delightful soup pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! For a well-rounded meal, consider complementing it with some fluffy jasmine rice or crispy spring rolls. A side of vegetable stir-fry would also enhance the experience with its crunch and vibrant colors. Feeling adventurous? Serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the warmth of the soup!
Top Tips for Perfecting Hot and Sour Chicken Soup:
- Ingredient Alternatives: Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. It works as a fantastic base absorbing all those rich flavors!
- Adjust the Heat: If you love spicy food, crank up the chili paste; if you prefer a milder version, you can reduce or omit it.
- Shortcut for Shredded Chicken: Use a rotisserie chicken from the store – it saves time and adds a lovely flavor!
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Hot and Sour Chicken Soup can be stored easily in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup; it will keep for about 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm it gently on the stove. If you find it a bit thick after freezing, don’t forget to add a splash of extra broth to help bring it back to its delightful consistency.
Now that you have all the tips and tricks, there’s no reason not to dive into the kitchen and create this tantalizing Hot and Sour Chicken Soup! It’s not just a meal; it’s an adventure you’re going to love! Enjoy cooking and savoring every drop of this savory delight!

Hot and Sour Chicken Soup
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup bamboo shoots drained
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- 1 egg beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a rolling boil. Add in the chicken breasts and let them simmer until fully cooked, approximately 15 minutes. Once done, remove and shred the chicken.
- Build the Flavor: In the same pot, add sliced mushrooms, bamboo shoots, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili paste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Thicken the Soup: Stir in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring to mix well. This will thicken the soup and make it heartier.
- Add the Egg: Gradually pour in the beaten egg, stirring gently to create ribbons in the soup.
- Final Seasoning: Taste your brilliant creation! Season with salt and pepper according to your liking.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and fresh coriander for a pop of color and flavor.
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