Hot & Sour Soup
I am a total soup fan... Soup Season is year round for me. Growing up, I used to hate that my parents would make soups on the hottest summer days. I always thought, "Why would they do that??" Now I get it... soup is good for the soul, as they say, any time you need it!
We are huge fans of the mushrooms from Mikuyta Mushrooms in Benecia. They have an amazing indoor facility where they grow the 'shrooms. They have such a beautiful variety from Lion's mane to Nameko, Chestnut and the star of THIS soup, Shiitakes. They give the perfect bite to our brothy eggy soup. Here's a simple but delicious recipe to try at home.
Ingredients:
2 cartons of broth (about 8 cups)
1/4 cup Rice Vinegar
1/4 cup Dark Soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger, or
1 inch knob of Fresh Ginger, grated (I use a xxx)
Shiitake Mushrooms, stems removed
2 whole eggs, whisked
Tofu, cubed
Green Onions, for garnish
Chili Paste, optional
White Pepper
Sesame Oil
Directions:
Combine 7 3/4 cup broth, rice vinegar, soy sauce and ginger in a soup pot. Stir to combine. Cook on Medium High Heat until simmering.
While the soup is simmering, use the remaining broth and stir in 1/4 cup cornstarch for your slurry. Be sure to smooth out the clumps. When the soup is simmering, add your slurry and stir to combine with broth about a minute. You should see the soup thicken slightly.
To add your eggs, stir your soup in a circular motion and slowly incorporate the whisked egg while stirring. This will create your egg ribbons. Stir for about 30 seconds to allow the egg to cook. Then add your cubed tofu and cook for a few minutes.
Now you've gotta taste. if its not sour enough, add more rice vinegar to your liking.
If it's not savory enough, add some more soy sauce. If you want some heat, add a spoonful of your favorite chili paste. We also suggest White Pepper to season. It really adds a depth of flavor to your soup.
Lastly, finish the soup off with a small drizzle of sesame oil. 1/2 tablespoon, if that. And taste again!! When it's just right, serve and top with green onions.
That's it, friends. Give it a try and let us know what you think!!
