Crockpot Hot and Sour Soup

This Crockpot Hot and Sour Soup is a perfect balance of bold, tangy, and spicy flavors that make it a standout dish. The slow cooking process allows the broth to develop a deep, rich umami taste, while the combination of mushrooms, tofu, and tender pork (or a vegetarian alternative) ensures a hearty, satisfying bowl. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. Whether you like it extra spicy or prefer a milder taste, you can easily adjust the heat level to suit your preference. Topped with fresh green onions and a drizzle of chili oil, every spoonful is warming, comforting, and full of flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or as an impressive appetizer for an Asian-inspired meal.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)

• 1/2 pound boneless pork loin, thinly sliced (or tofu for vegetarian)

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button)

• 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, julienned

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon white pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)

• 1/4 cup cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water (for thickening)

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1/2 block firm tofu, cut into cubes

• 2 green onions, sliced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon chili oil (optional for extra spice)

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Add chicken broth to the crockpot and set to low heat.

2. Add pork (or tofu), mushrooms, bamboo shoots, vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, red pepper flakes, ginger, garlic, sugar, and salt. Stir to combine.

3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

4. Mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the soup 30 minutes before serving to thicken.

5. Slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs while stirring to create egg ribbons.

6. Add tofu cubes and allow to heat through for 10 minutes.

7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions, cilantro, and optional chili oil.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Kcal: 180 kcal per serving | Servings: 4

Crockpot Hot and Sour Soup: A Flavorful and Comforting Delight

Crockpot Hot and Sour Soup is a classic Asian dish beloved for its bold flavors, satisfying texture, and nourishing qualities. This traditional Chinese soup has been enjoyed for centuries, originating from Sichuan and Beijing cuisines, each with unique regional variations. The harmonious balance of heat from spices and the tangy kick from vinegar makes this soup a standout dish, whether served as a starter or a main course. Cooking this soup in a crockpot enhances the depth of flavors while making it incredibly easy to prepare. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a deeply savory, umami-rich broth. If you’re looking for a healthy, comforting, and effortless meal, this Crockpot Hot and Sour Soup is the best choice.

The History and Origins of Hot and Sour Soup

Hot and Sour Soup has a long-standing tradition in Chinese cuisine, dating back hundreds of years. It is particularly popular in Sichuan and Beijing-style cooking, though many other Asian cultures have adapted their own versions. In Sichuan cuisine, the soup tends to have a more fiery spice level, thanks to the generous use of chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns. Beijing-style Hot and Sour Soup, on the other hand, leans more toward the vinegar-forward taste profile with a milder spice level. This dish eventually made its way to Western countries, where it became a staple on Chinese restaurant menus. While Western versions often include ingredients like cornstarch for thickening and bamboo shoots for texture, authentic Chinese recipes maintain a focus on umami flavors with elements such as wood ear mushrooms, white pepper, and dried tofu skin.

Why This Crockpot Version is the Best

Slow Cooking Enhances Flavors

• Using a crockpot allows the flavors to develop gradually, leading to a richer and more robust broth. Unlike traditional stovetop methods that require careful heat control, a slow cooker ensures a deep, complex taste with minimal effort.

Easy, Hands-Off Cooking

• With just a few minutes of prep time, the slow cooker does all the work. There’s no need to stand over a stove, making this an ideal meal for busy individuals or families looking for a nutritious and delicious dinner with minimal effort.

Versatility and Customization

• This soup can be easily adapted to fit dietary needs. Whether you prefer a vegetarian version with tofu or a meaty version with pork or chicken, the recipe is flexible. You can also control the spice level and thickness according to your preference.

Nutrient-Rich and Health-Boosting

• The ingredients in Hot and Sour Soup provide various health benefits, from boosting digestion to improving immunity. The addition of mushrooms, ginger, garlic, and vinegar enhances its nutritional value, making it not only delicious but also incredibly beneficial.

Health Benefits of Hot and Sour Soup

Supports Immune Health

• The combination of garlic, ginger, and mushrooms makes this soup an excellent immunity booster. Ginger and garlic have natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, helping to ward off colds and flu.

Aids Digestion

• The vinegar in Hot and Sour Soup stimulates digestive enzymes, promoting gut health. White pepper, a key ingredient, also aids in digestion and helps reduce bloating.

Low in Calories, High in Protein

• This soup is light yet satisfying, making it a great choice for those watching their calorie intake. Tofu and lean protein options like pork or chicken add satiety without excess fat or carbohydrates.

Packed with Antioxidants

• Mushrooms, especially shiitake, are rich in antioxidants that help combat inflammation and oxidative stress. The chili oil and white pepper also contain compounds that support overall well-being.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

• With Dumplings: Enjoy a bowl of Hot and Sour Soup with steamed dumplings for a complete Chinese-inspired meal.
• With Fried Rice: Pair this soup with a bowl of vegetable or egg fried rice for a satisfying combination.
• With Spring Rolls: Light, crispy spring rolls complement the richness of the soup perfectly.
• As a Standalone Meal: Thanks to its protein content and rich flavor, this soup can be enjoyed on its own for a nourishing, low-calorie meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?

• Yes! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace the pork with tofu or extra mushrooms.

How Spicy is Hot and Sour Soup?

• The spice level can be adjusted to taste. If you prefer mild heat, reduce the red pepper flakes and chili oil. For an extra kick, add Sichuan peppercorns or more chili oil.

Can I Store and Reheat This Soup?

• Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Crockpot Hot and Sour Soup is the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and nutrition. The slow cooker method makes it accessible for any home cook, while the rich history and health benefits elevate it beyond just another soup recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly day, this soup will always deliver a perfect balance of heat, tang, and umami-packed goodness. Try making this Crockpot Hot and Sour Soup today and experience the ultimate comfort food with a bold and delicious twist!