Ultimate Guide to Making Veg Hot and Sour Soup – A Flavorful, Healthy Recipe

Introduction to Veg Hot and Sour Soup

Hot and sour soup is a classic choice for those craving a blend of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors. Originating from Asian cuisine, this soup has become popular worldwide for its unique taste, simplicity, and health benefits. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply love bold flavors, this Veg Hot and Sour Soup recipe will satisfy your taste buds and warm you up on any chilly day.

Benefits of Veg Hot and Sour Soup

Veg Hot and Sour Soup is not only a treat for your palate but also a healthy, low-calorie option. Packed with fresh veggies like spring onions, carrots, and capsicum, it’s rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and fiber. The inclusion of ginger and garlic enhances its anti-inflammatory properties, while soy sauce and lemon juice add the right amount of zest and depth.

Ingredients

• 2 spring onions, chopped

• 1 carrot, diced

• 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped

• 1-inch ginger, grated

• 1/2 capsicum, diced

• 2 green chilies, sliced

• 2 tsp oil

• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 tbsp red chili sauce

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1/2 liter water

• 2 tbsp cornflour mixed with 3 tbsp water (cornflour slurry)

• Salt to taste

• Juice of half a lemon

• Fresh coriander for garnish

Quick Soup Recipe Video

Easy Video Guide

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing and chopping the spring onions, carrot, capsicum, and green chilies. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to crackle. Then, add chopped garlic and ginger and sauté until fragrant.

3. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped spring onions, carrots, and capsicum. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain their crunch.

4. Add Sauces: Pour in the red chili sauce and soy sauce. Stir well to combine, coating the vegetables in the sauce.

5. Add Water and Seasonings: Add 1/2 liter of water, bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium. Add salt to taste and stir.

6. Thicken the Soup: Slowly add the cornflour slurry to the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Allow the soup to simmer until it reaches your desired thickness.

7. Add Final Touches: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the soup and stir. This will add a fresh, tangy flavor.

8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and extra spring onions if desired. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Hot and Sour Soup

1. Balance Flavors: Adjust the spice, tanginess, and saltiness according to your preference. If you prefer a spicier soup, add extra green chilies or a dash of hot sauce.

2. Texture: For a thicker consistency, add a little more cornflour slurry. Ensure you stir constantly while adding it to avoid lumps.

3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and vegetables enhance the flavor and texture, giving the soup a crisp and refreshing taste.

4. Optional Add-ins: Add mushrooms, tofu, or bamboo shoots for additional texture and nutrients.

Variations of Hot and Sour Soup

Explore different variations of this classic recipe:

• Mushroom Hot and Sour Soup: Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.

• Tofu Hot and Sour Soup: Include cubes of tofu to add protein and make it more filling.

• Noodle Hot and Sour Soup: Add boiled noodles to turn it into a meal-in-a-bowl.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

1. Carrots: High in beta-carotene, carrots are excellent for vision, immunity, and skin health.

2. Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger aids in digestion and boosts immunity.

3. Garlic: A natural antioxidant, garlic has been shown to support heart health and improve immune function.

4. Capsicum: Low in calories and rich in vitamin C, capsicum is great for immune support.

5. Soy Sauce: Adds umami flavor and is a good source of antioxidants when used in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Hot and Sour Soup without cornflour?
Yes, you can substitute cornstarch with potato starch or arrowroot powder, though it may slightly alter the consistency.

2. How do I store leftover Hot and Sour Soup?
Allow the soup to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on low heat before serving.

3. Can I freeze this soup?
Hot and Sour Soup can be frozen; however, fresh vegetables may lose their crispness upon reheating. For best results, consume within a month.

4. Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes! This Veg Hot and Sour Soup recipe is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegans and vegetarians alike.

Nutritional Information

This soup is low in calories, high in fiber, and offers a range of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy option for any meal.

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