Savory Hot and Sour Soup that Warms Your Soul
Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team
As the chill of evening sets in, the desire for something warm and comforting becomes almost irresistible. That s when I find myself drawn to the dazzling world of homemade Hot and Sour Soup. The first slurp never fails to send a wave of warmth through me, a delightful dance of heat and tang that instantly lifts my spirits. The combination of tender mushrooms, silky tofu, and crunchy bamboo shoots creates a texture experience that beckons for a second bowl.
I discovered this recipe during a cool fall gathering when a friend brought over her pot of steaming broth that was both spicy and sour. Everyone couldn t stop raving about its complex flavors! Inspired, I decided to create my own version at home, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen.
Not only does this nourishing soup come together in under an hour, but it also strikes that perfect balance between health and indulgence. Whether you re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing friends, this Hot and Sour Soup will become your new go-to dish, bringing warmth and excitement to any table. Let s dive into this flavorful adventure!
Why is Hot and Sour Soup a must-try?
Comforting warmth: This soup warms you up from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Flavor explosion: The combination of spicy, sour, and savory notes creates a well-rounded taste that will have you craving more after each bowl.
Easy preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking, you can whip up a satisfying meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Nutrient-rich: Packed with lean pork, mushrooms, and tofu, this recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing a good balance of protein and fiber.
Versatile delight: Customize your soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your palate.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your friends and family with this delightful dish at gatherings everyone will be asking for the recipe! Enjoy this recipe also with a side of homemade spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Hot and Sour Soup Ingredients
For the Dried Ingredients
Dried shiitake mushrooms add a deep umami flavor to your soup.
Dried wood ear mushrooms these bring an enjoyable crunch, perfect for texture.
Dried lily buds contribute a delicate floral note and visual appeal.
For the Pork
Lean pork offers protein but can be substituted with chicken or tofu for a meatless option.
Cornstarch helps in tenderizing the meat and thickening the broth.
For the Vegetables
Carrot adds both sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
Bamboo shoots provide a satisfying texture and earthy flavor.
Soft tofu brings creaminess and protein; julienned for a beautiful presentation.
For the Broth
Unsalted chicken/vegetable stock or water forms the soup s flavorful base.
Cornstarch used additionally to create a silky, thicker consistency.
For the Flavor
Black rice vinegar adds the essential tanginess that makes the soup hot and sour.
Light soy sauce enhances the savory notes without overpowering the dish.
Ground white pepper delivers a gentle heat that complements the other flavors.
Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma to finish off the soup.
For the Garnish
Coriander or scallions sprinkle these on top for freshness and a pop of color.
How to Make Hot and Sour Soup
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Soak the dried shiitake mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, and lily buds in plenty of warm water for at least 1 hour until they blossom and soften. This step is essential for achieving that delightful texture.
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Slice the shiitake and wood ear mushrooms into thin strips. Tear the soaked lily buds lengthwise into thinner strands, which will add a beautiful visual appeal to your soup.
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Prepare the pork by cutting it against the grain into thin strips. Mix with cornstarch and water, then coat it with neutral oil to ensure it stays tender as it cooks.
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Slice the carrot, bamboo shoots, and tofu into thin strips while lightly beating the egg to create a lovely finish for the soup.
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Boil the stock or water in a wok or large pot until it reaches a full simmer. Quickly add the marinated pork for a quick cook that maintains its juiciness.
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Skim off any froth that forms on the surface to keep the soup clear. Then, add the sliced shiitake mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, lily buds, carrot, and bamboo shoots for a flavorful mix.
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Simmer the soup gently over low heat while preparing the thickener. Mix cornstarch and water well, then pour into the soup for that perfect silky consistency.
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Gently fold in the soft tofu, pouring the beaten egg in a circular motion to create beautiful ribbons throughout the broth.
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Finish by turning off the heat and adding in the black rice vinegar, soy sauce, white pepper, and sesame oil. This will seal in all those brilliant flavors!
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Garnish with finely chopped coriander or scallions, and serve warm for a comforting bowl of deliciousness.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra white pepper for more heat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Hot and Sour Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its texture.
Freezer: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing.
Thawing: For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to restore consistency.
Reheating: Heat the soup thoroughly until steaming hot, making sure to stir well to combine the ingredients after freezing. Enjoy your Hot and Sour Soup like it was just made from scratch!
What to Serve with Hot and Sour Soup?
As you savor each steaming bowl of this vibrant soup, consider these delightful pairings to create a truly memorable meal experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, it soaks up the delicious broth beautifully, making every bite more satisfying.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden treats add a perfect crunch, providing a contrast to the silky soup and enhancing your flavor adventure.
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Sesame Noodles: Their nutty flavor and chewy texture make a harmonious partner, balancing the soup s spicy and sour notes while adding a filling element to your meal.
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Chili Garlic Edamame: The pop of these seasoned soybeans offers a delightful heat that complements the soup, making for a fun and engaging appetizer.
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Fruit Salad with Lime Dressing: A refreshing side like this brightens the palate and adds a zesty touch, perfectly offsetting the rich flavors of the soup.
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Hot Green Tea: Sip on this mellow drink to enhance the warmth of the meal, promoting digestion while offering a calming finish.
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Mango Tapioca Pudding: A lightly sweetened dessert provides a soothing conclusion after the vibrant spices, making for a balanced end to the meal.
Each of these accompaniments not only complements your Hot and Sour Soup but creates a delightful dining experience filled with diverse textures and flavors!
Hot and Sour Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Vegan Delight: Substitute pork with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein-packed version.
Enhance the umami flavor by adding shiitake mushroom broth as your base. -
Extra Spice: Incorporate sliced fresh jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an added kick.
Adjust the quantity to suit your heat preference, igniting your taste buds with every spoonful! -
Mushroom Medley: Use a mix of fresh mushrooms like cremini and oyster mushrooms instead of dried varieties.
The freshness will elevate the flavor profile, bringing a new layer of earthiness to your soup. -
Citrus Brightness: Add a splash of lime or lemon juice just before serving for a refreshing zing.
This bright note complements the soup s sourness and enhances the overall flavor experience. -
Crunch Factor: Toss in some bean sprouts or water chestnuts for extra crunch and texture.
These elements bring a delightful contrast to the softness of the tofu and mushrooms. -
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or Thai cilantro for an aromatic lift.
Each herb introduces a different character, making the soup feel unique and interesting. -
Asian Noodles: Add cooked rice noodles or udon for a heartier meal that s rich in flavor.
The noodles soak up the delicious broth, making for a comforting and satisfying dish. -
Creamy Twist: Stir in a spoonful of coconut milk for a creamy, tropical touch.
This variation softens the flavors while adding a silky texture to your Hot and Sour Soup.
Expert Tips for Hot and Sour Soup
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Ingredient Prep: Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before you start cooking. This will make the process smoother and prevent overcooking any components.
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Don t Rush Soaking: Allowing the dried mushrooms and lily buds to soak for at least an hour is key. This step enhances their texture and ensures they add maximum flavor to the soup.
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Pork Technique: Cut the pork against the grain into thin strips for tenderness. Mixing it with cornstarch helps keep it moist during cooking don t skip this!
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Thickening Process: When adding the cornstarch mixture to thicken the soup, stir gently to avoid lumps and achieve that silky consistency characteristic of Hot and Sour Soup.
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Flavor Balance: Adjust the vinegar and soy sauce according to your taste. Start with less and add more to find your ideal balance of hot and sour flavors!
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Use Fresh Garnish: Finish with freshly chopped coriander or scallions for a burst of flavor and color. It elevates the overall presentation and taste of your Hot and Sour Soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Hot and Sour Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can soak the dried shiitake mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, and lily buds up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in the refrigerator. The marinated pork can also be prepared and stored for up to 3 days in a sealed container, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful. When you re ready to enjoy your soup, simply boil your stock and add the prepped ingredients along with fresh veggies and tofu. This prep-ahead method saves you time for busy weeknights, leaving you with a comforting bowl of Hot and Sour Soup just as delicious as if it were made from scratch!
Hot and Sour Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting dried mushrooms?
Absolutely! When choosing dried shiitake and wood ear mushrooms, look for those that are firm and intact, without dark spots or mold. For shiitake, avoid those that are overly brittle; they should feel slightly flexible. The quality of your mushrooms will significantly influence the soup s flavor.
How long can I store leftover Hot and Sour Soup in the fridge?
You can store your delicious soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When you re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the texture nice and creamy.
Can I freeze Hot and Sour Soup, and how do I do it?
Very! To freeze your Hot and Sour Soup, portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming. It can be frozen for up to 3 months! When you re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat on the stove with a splash of water to restore consistency.
What should I do if my soup turns out too thick or too thin?
No worries! If your soup is too thick, simply stir in a bit of hot water or extra stock while heating until you reach your desired consistency. If it s too thin, mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the simmering soup until it thickens up.
Is Hot and Sour Soup safe for dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for various dietary needs! To make it vegetarian, substitute lean pork with more tofu or your favorite meat substitute. If you re gluten-sensitive, use gluten-free soy sauce. Always check the ingredient labels to ensure they align with any allergies or restrictions you might have!
Can pets safely consume Hot and Sour Soup?
Not recommended! The ingredients like garlic and soy sauce can be harmful to pets, particularly cats and dogs. It s best to keep this savory Hot and Sour Soup for your own enjoyment and share some plain, cooked meat or veggies with furry friends instead!