Vegan Hot and Sour Soup

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons chili paste or 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
• 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, drained
• 1/2 cup firm tofu, cubed
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
2. Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add the chili paste or red pepper flakes, vegetable broth, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and tofu. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water. Pour the mixture into the soup and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve hot.

Interesting Facts

• The name “hot and sour” refers to the combination of spices used in the soup.
• Shiitake mushrooms are a great source of vitamins and minerals.
• Bamboo shoots are a great source of fiber and are a good substitute for meat in vegetarian dishes.