PF Changs Hot & Sour Soup

235

18

1.30k

PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup: A Cozy Culinary Journey

Hot and sour soup is the kind of dish that warms your soul while tantalizing your taste buds. Inspired by the beloved PF Chang’s version, this recipe is the perfect balance of spicy and savory, making it great for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something comforting. I first fell in love with this umami-rich soup at a family gathering where it was served alongside our favorite dishes, sparking a tradition of making it at home. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself to a delicious weeknight dinner, this soup hits the spot every time.

What Makes This Recipe Worth Your Time?

Why You’ll Adore This Delicious Dish

There are countless reasons to whip up PF Chang’s hot and sour soup at home. For one, it uses a combination of bold flavors that come together surprisingly quickly, making this a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It’s also budget-friendly, with ingredients you may already have stocked in your pantry. Perfect as a starter for an Asian-inspired feast or as a standalone meal, you’ll find it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

"Best hot and sour soup I’ve ever made! The layers of flavor are incredible, and it’s perfect for cold nights." — A happy home chef

The Cooking Process Explained

How to Prepare PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup

Making this flavor-packed soup is easier than you might think. In just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have a luscious, bubbling pot of hot and sour goodness. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect in this cooking adventure:

1. Prepare your broth by heating chicken stock and seasoning it well.
2. Add the hearty ingredients like mushrooms and bamboo shoots.
3. Thicken the soup with a flavorful cornstarch slurry.
4. Create silky ribbons of egg and finish with tofu and mirin.

Gather These Essentials

Pin It!

Key Ingredients for a Flavor Explosion

Before you dive into cooking, ensure you have the following items on hand:

• 32 oz chicken stock
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp white pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp five-spice powder
• 1 tbsp minced ginger
• 6 oz bamboo shoots (from can)
• 6 oz sliced shiitake mushrooms
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 4 oz mirin
• 1 tbsp gochujang
• 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 6 oz silken tofu (cut into cubes)
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

Feel free to experiment with ingredients. For instance, you can replace shiitake mushrooms with button mushrooms if you’re looking for a milder flavor.

Directions to Create This Delightful Dish

A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start by adding the chicken stock to a large pot over medium-high heat. Whisk in the soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, salt, five-spice powder, and minced ginger. Allow this mixture to cook for 5 minutes.
2. Next, introduce the gochujang, chili garlic sauce, and mushrooms to the pot. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
3. In a small bowl, prepare a cornstarch slurry by whisking together the water and cornstarch until smooth. Add this mixture to the pot and allow the soup to cook for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Slowly stream the beaten eggs into the hot soup while constantly stirring to create delicate egg ribbons. Cook for 2 more minutes.
5. Finally, stir in the mirin, chopped green onions, and cubes of silken tofu. Turn off the heat and leave the soup covered on the stove for 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
6. Serve and enjoy the bold flavors!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Meal

When it comes to serving PF Chang’s hot and sour soup, presentation can elevate the experience. Serve this vibrant soup in rustic bowls, garnished with freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color. It pairs beautifully with spring rolls, fried rice, or even a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

How to Store & Freeze

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in single portions — just ensure to leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.

Useful Cooking Tips for Success

Expert Advice for Perfecting Your Soup

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips:

• Use high-quality chicken stock for the base; it makes all the difference.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry unless you like a less thick texture.
• When pouring in the beaten eggs, do so slowly while stirring vigorously to create that lovely ribbon effect.

Creative Twists for Variety

Different Ways to Try It

Feel free to play around with flavor profiles! Swap out the gochujang for sriracha if you’re looking for a sweeter heat. You can also switch the silken tofu for crumbled firm tofu or even shrimp for a hearty seafood variation. Want a vegetarian option? Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and add your favorite veggies for an even richer profile.

Your Questions Answered

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does this soup take to prepare?
A: From start to finish, you can have this hot and sour soup ready in about 30-40 minutes.

Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Yes! It’s ideal for meal prep, but keep in mind that the texture of tofu and eggs might change after storing.

Q: What if I have food allergies?
A: You can easily modify this recipe; gluten-free soy sauce is a great alternative, and feel free to omit or replace any ingredient that may not fit your dietary needs.

Enjoy creating and savoring PF Chang’s hot and sour soup, a dish that reflects the warmth and joy of home cooking!