Traditional Hot and Sour Soup

This classic Hot and Sour Soup is a delightful blend of flavors, featuring the crunch of snow peas and bean sprouts, complemented by the sweetness of yellow bell pepper. Thickened with cornstarch and seasoned with soy sauce and black pepper, this plant-based, dairy-free, and nut-free soup is perfect for a comforting meal. It's a traditional recipe that respects culinary principles while meeting dietary needs.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and water, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Add the sliced yellow bell pepper, snow peas, and bean sprouts to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp.
4. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly stir this mixture into the soup to thicken it.
5. Add the soy sauce and black pepper, stirring well to combine. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.