Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup

Discover the rich flavors of Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup, an easy, comforting recipe perfect for cozy meals any day of the week. This delicious soup blends tangy vinegar, spicy heat, and savory depth, all slowly simmered to create an unforgettable taste experience. Whether you’re new to homemade soups or a seasoned cook, this slow cooker version makes it effortless to enjoy a classic favorite without standing over the stove.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply add ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax or manage your day.
• Deep, Layered Flavors: Slow cooking enhances the mingling of spicy, sour, and umami tastes for a truly satisfying bowl.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness easily by controlling chili ingredients, making it perfect for all taste buds.
• Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with fresh veggies and protein, this soup supports a balanced meal any time.
• Great for Meal Prep: Makes large batches that keep well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients that together create the iconic balance of hot and sour. Each component plays a role in building the texture, depth, and bright character of the soup.

• Broth: Use chicken or vegetable broth for a flavorful and savory base.
• Tofu or Protein: Firm tofu or shredded chicken adds substance and protein, absorbing the soup’s rich flavors.
• Mushrooms: Shiitake or button mushrooms contribute an earthy, meaty texture.
• Bamboo Shoots: Add crunch and authentic texture to the soup.
• Vinegar: Chinese black vinegar or rice vinegar provides the signature sour tang.
• Soy Sauce: Offers salty umami depth that balances the tangy and spicy notes.
• Chili Paste or Fresh Chilies: Provides the essential spicy kick, adjustable per your spice tolerance.
• Eggs: Lightly whisked and stirred in at the end for delicate ribbons that enhance richness.
• Thickener: Cornstarch or tapioca starch to achieve that silky, slightly thickened broth.
• Green Onions and Cilantro: Fresh herbs to brighten and finish the soup beautifully.

Variations for Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup

One of the joys of making Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup is how easy it is to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some simple swap ideas to customize your bowl.

• Vegetarian Version: Omit meat and use vegetable broth with extra mushrooms and tofu for a hearty plant-based option.
• Spice Level Adjustments: Use mild chili flakes or increase fresh chili amount for a hotter bowl.
• Seafood Twist: Add shrimp or crab in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a seafood delight.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and cornstarch or arrowroot powder as thickener.
• Extra Veggies: Include sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn for added color and crunch.

How to Make Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup

Step 1: Prepare and Assemble Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients, chop your vegetables, and cube the tofu or shred the cooked chicken. This prep makes the assembly quick and smooth.

Step 2: Combine Base Ingredients

Add broth, soy sauce, vinegar, chili paste, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and protein to the slow cooker. Stir gently to mix without breaking the tofu.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen and ingredients to tenderize perfectly.

Step 4: Thicken and Finish

About 15 minutes before serving, whisk the cornstarch with water and add to the soup, stirring to thicken. Slowly drizzle in beaten eggs while stirring for the classic silky texture.

Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs and Serve

Turn off the heat, sprinkle chopped green onions and fresh cilantro on top, then ladle into bowls for immediate enjoyment.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup

• Control Heat: Add chili slowly and taste midway to find your perfect spice balance.
• Use Fresh Vinegar: Fresh black or rice vinegar makes a big difference in acidity and brightness.
• Layer Flavors: Sauté mushrooms and aromatics before adding for enhanced depth if you have time.
• Prevent Overcooking Tofu: Add tofu in the last hour to maintain its texture.
• Use Low Heat: Slow cook on low to avoid breaking down ingredients too much and maintain a clear, flavorful broth.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup

Garnishes

The best garnish for this soup is a handful of fresh green onions and cilantro, which add a fresh, herbal brightness that contrasts the hot and sour base.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or simple spring rolls to make the meal more substantial, or offer crisp cucumber salad to balance the heat.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual clay pots for an authentic touch, or add a swirl of chili oil and toasted sesame seeds just before serving for a gourmet flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an easy grab-and-go meal.

Freezing

Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup freezes well—pour into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat to preserve texture, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add fresh herbs after reheating for best flavor.

FAQs

Can I make Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup vegan?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth, omit eggs, and stick to tofu and veggies for protein and texture to make this recipe fully plant-based.

What broth is best for Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup?

Chicken broth delivers rich flavor, but vegetable broth works well for vegetarian versions, and even mushroom broth can add an extra umami boost.

How spicy is Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup?

The spice level is completely adjustable; start with a small amount of chili paste and increase to your preferred heat level during cooking.

Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of dried?

Yes, fresh mushrooms work beautifully and often give a lighter texture, but dried shiitake mushrooms impart a deeper, earthier flavor.

Do I have to add eggs to Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup?

Egg ribbons are traditional and add silkiness, but if you prefer an egg-free version, simply skip that step and enjoy the soup as is.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Hot and Sour Soup is a heartwarming, flavorful bowl that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or looking for a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out, this recipe is a must-try. Dive in, customize to your tastes, and enjoy the magic of slow cooking with every spoonful.

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