Hot and Sour Soup

Instructions

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients and organizing them. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, combine the chicken broth, rice vinegar, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. While your broth is heating, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until it’s smooth. This slurry will help thicken your soup.
4. Add the tofu, mushrooms, and carrots to the pot. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the carrots are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Gently stir in the bamboo shoots, and then slowly add the cornstarch mixture while continuously stirring. This is key to preventing lumps and achieving a creamy consistency.
6. While stirring the soup in a circular motion, slowly pour in the beaten eggs. Keep stirring as the eggs form ribbons in the hot soup.
7. Add the vegetable oil, white pepper, chili paste, and green onions. Stir well to combine and bring the soup back to a boil.
8. Finally, remove the pot from heat and stir in the sesame oil. Add salt to taste, keeping in mind that soy sauce is already salty.
9. Serve hot. Enjoy your homemade hot and sour soup, garnished with additional green onions if desired.