Spicy hot and sour mushroom soup

Hot and sour soup is a Chinese restaurant favorite, and this mushroom-loaded version is even better than takeout. The perfect balance of tangy vinegar and spicy heat creates a soup that's addictively delicious. Adding extra mushrooms makes it heartier and more satisfying.

The silky egg ribbons and tofu add protein, while the bamboo shoots provide crunch. It's a symphony of textures and flavors in every bowl - exactly what great soup should be.

Balancing Flavors

  • Sour: Rice vinegar is key
  • Hot: White pepper + chili
  • Salty: Soy sauce
  • Umami: Mushrooms and broth

Traditional Additions

  • Wood ear mushrooms
  • Bamboo shoots
  • Silken tofu
  • Egg ribbons

Serving Suggestions

  • Sliced green onions
  • Drizzle of sesame oil
  • Serve with fried rice
  • Perfect when sick

Hot and Sour Mushroom Soup

Tangy, spicy Chinese classic with mushrooms.

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 15 min
Total: 30 min
Servings: 6

Nutrition per serving

165Calories
10gProtein
14gCarbs
8gFat
2gFiber
3gSugar

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Build soup base. Bring broth to a boil in a large pot. Add mushrooms and bamboo shoots. Simmer 5 minutes.
  2. Season. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and white pepper. Stir to combine. Add tofu strips.
  3. Thicken. Stir cornstarch slurry and add to soup, stirring constantly. Cook until soup thickens slightly.
  4. Add eggs. While stirring soup in a circular motion, slowly drizzle in beaten eggs to create ribbons.
  5. Serve. Remove from heat. Drizzle with sesame oil. Top with green onions. Adjust vinegar and chili to taste.

Recipe Notes

  • More sour: Add extra vinegar to taste.
  • More heat: Add white pepper or more chili.
  • Vegan: Skip eggs, use vegetable broth.
  • Storage: Refrigerate 3 days. Egg ribbons soften over time.