Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your kitchen into a flavor paradise! This Chinese-inspired Hot and Sour Soup with Chayote and Shrimp is not just a recipe, it's an experience that combines the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and umami flavors. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a curious food adventurer, this soup promises to tantalize your senses and warm your soul.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Chayote, diced
- Chicken broth
- White vinegar
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Tofu, cubed
- Green onions, sliced
- Egg, beaten
- Chili oil
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by peeling and deveining the shrimp, dicing the chayote into small uniform cubes, cubing the tofu, and slicing the green onions.
- In a large pot, heat chicken broth over medium-high heat until it begins to simmer, bringing it to a gentle boil.
- Add diced chayote to the broth and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Stir in soy sauce, white vinegar, and sesame oil to build the soup's signature hot and sour flavor profile.
- Add cubed tofu and peeled shrimp to the simmering broth, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Slowly pour the beaten egg into the soup while stirring gently, creating delicate egg ribbons throughout the broth.
- Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and drizzle with chili oil for added heat and complexity.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, ensuring each serving has a balanced mix of shrimp, chayote, and tofu.
Tips
- Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Cut chayote into uniform small cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Don't overcook the shrimp - they should turn pink and opaque quickly.
- For egg ribbons, pour the beaten egg slowly while stirring gently.
- Adjust vinegar and chili oil to match your preferred level of tanginess and heat.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- For added depth, toast some sesame seeds as an extra garnish.
- Pair with steamed rice for a complete meal experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 160mg