Name: PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 32 oz chicken stock; 1 cup soy sauce; 2 tsp sesame oil; 1 teaspoon white pepper; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp five spice powder; 1 tbsp minced ginger; 6 ounces bamboo shoots (from can); 6 ounces sliced shiitake mushrooms; 6 ounces silken tofu (cut into cubes); Green onions (optional, chopped); 2 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp water; 2 eggs (beaten); 4 ounces mirin; 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 tbsp chili garlic sauce; 1 tbsp hoisin sauce

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 1 review

If you have ever craved a comforting, tangy, and spicy bowl of soup that bursts with flavor, you’re in for a real treat with this PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup Recipe. This classic favorite delivers a delightful blend of savory chicken broth, umami-rich mushrooms, silky tofu, and a perfect kick of heat and sourness that will warm your soul. It’s a wonderful dish to enjoy year-round and a fantastic way to bring a touch of authentic PF Chang’s magic right into your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of various cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a wooden table, which should be changed to a white marbled texture. There is a white bowl filled with sliced mushrooms at the bottom center, next to some green onions on the left. Above them is a white dish holding two blocks of tofu. To the upper left, there is a clear measuring cup filled with light yellow broth, and below it is a white measuring cup with dark brown soy sauce. Small bowls and cups contain different sauces, spices, and seasonings including minced garlic, salt, chili sauce, and white powder. Two white eggs are placed near the middle right side. A small white pitcher with light-colored liquid is beside the eggs. The ingredients are spaced evenly, showing a variety of colors like brown, white, light yellow, red, and green. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in building the distinct layers of flavor, texture, and aroma that make this soup so memorable. From the fragrant ginger and five-spice powder to the tender bamboo shoots and silky tofu, every component enhances the dish’s complexity while still being straightforward to find and use.

32 oz chicken stock: This forms the rich, savory base that brings warmth and depth to the soup.
1 cup soy sauce: Adds a salty umami punch that balances perfectly with the other seasonings.
2 tsp sesame oil: Provides a nutty fragrance and smooth finish.
1 teaspoon white pepper: Offers a gentle spiciness that’s subtle but essential.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all flavors without overpowering them.
1 tsp five spices: Blends cinnamon, fennel, star anise, cloves, and pepper for complexity.
1 tbsp minced ginger: Brings fresh, zesty brightness to the soup.
6 ounces bamboo shoots (from can): Adds crunchy texture and authenticity.
6 ounces sliced shiitake mushrooms: Introduces earthiness and meaty bite.
2 tbsp cornstarch: Used to thicken the soup to that perfect silky consistency.
2 tbsp water: Mixed with cornstarch to create a smooth slurry.
2 eggs (beaten): Adds richness and those beautiful egg ribbons throughout the soup.
4 ounces mirin: Brings a subtle sweetness and mild acidity to balance the heat.
1 tbsp gochujang: A Korean chili paste that adds smoky heat and depth.
1 tbsp chili garlic sauce: Provides a garlicky, spicy kick.
1 tbsp hoisin sauce: Adds a hint of sweetness and smokiness.
6 ounces silken tofu (cut into cubes): For silky texture and gentle creaminess in every spoonful.
Green onions (optional): Serve as a fresh, crisp garnish that brightens the dish.

How to Make PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup Recipe

Step 1: Build the Flavorful Broth

Start by pouring your chicken stock into a large pot set over medium-high heat. To this savory base, add the soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, salt, Chinese five spices, and minced ginger. Whisk everything together well and allow the mixture to cook for about 5 minutes. This step is where the fragrance begins to develop and sets the foundation for the hot and sour profile of the soup.

Step 2: Bring in the Heat and Earthiness

Now it’s time to add the bold flavors that give this soup its signature punch. Stir in the gochujang, chili garlic sauce, hoisin, and the sliced shiitake mushrooms. These ingredients meld beautifully, creating both depth and complexity. Raise the heat just enough to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce to low, letting the flavors marry softly as you move to the next step.

Step 3: Thicken and Perfect the Texture

Create a cornstarch slurry by whisking together cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. Pour this mixture into the simmering soup while stirring to prevent lumps. Allow the soup to cook for another 10 minutes; during this time, the broth will thicken nicely into that silky, satisfying texture you expect from PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup Recipe.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Tofu

With the soup gently bubbling, slowly pour in the beaten eggs in a thin stream while stirring continuously. This technique creates beautiful egg ribbons throughout the soup, adding richness and delicate texture. Then stir in the mirin, cubed silken tofu, and optionally chopped green onions. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the soup rest for 5 minutes so all the flavors fully develop together.

Step 5: Serve it Up and Enjoy!

Your PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup Recipe is now ready to be ladled into bowls and savored. This homemade version captures every bit of the comforting, spicy, and tangy essence that makes the dish famous.

How to Serve PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup Recipe

A close-up shot shows a black cast iron pot filled with dark brown broth and sliced mushrooms floating on the surface. A woman's hand is pouring a smooth, thick yellow liquid from a clear measuring cup into the pot. The scene is set on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and warm kitchen atmosphere. The pot has clear handles, and the liquid contrasts with the mushrooms and broth inside. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Although the soup is packed with flavor on its own, adding fresh green onions or thinly sliced chili peppers as garnishes can heighten the experience by introducing vibrant color and a fresh bite. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few sprigs of cilantro also make beautiful finishing touches that elevate presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or crispy spring rolls that complement its warmth and spice. For a fuller meal, consider serving alongside a light Asian-inspired salad or vegetable dumplings. These choices balance the intensity of the broth and round out your dining experience perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive dinner, serve the soup in elegant soup bowls with a small side of pickled vegetables or scallion pancakes. You can also experiment by adding a little fresh lime juice or a drizzle of chili oil on top right before serving to customize the heat and tanginess exactly to your liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra soup, no worries! Simply transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, the soup will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining its wonderful flavors.

Freezing

Freezing the soup is also an option, though tofu’s texture might change slightly after thawing. To freeze, cool the soup completely, then pour into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the soup slowly over low heat on the stove, stirring gently to reincorporate any separated ingredients. Avoid boiling to preserve the delicate textures, especially the tofu and egg ribbons. A microwave can work too, but stir every 30 seconds to heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth and omit any meat-based sauces. The mushrooms and tofu still provide plenty of umami and texture, keeping the soup delicious and satisfying.

How spicy is this PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup Recipe?

The level of heat is moderate and can be adjusted easily by varying the amount of gochujang and chili garlic sauce. If you prefer it milder, reduce these ingredients, or add more for a fiery kick.

What is the purpose of the cornstarch slurry?

The cornstarch slurry thickens the soup gently, giving it that characteristic silky texture that clings beautifully to the ingredients without becoming too heavy or gloopy.

Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?

Yes, fresh shiitake mushrooms work wonderfully and provide an even more robust flavor. Just be sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly in the broth.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It reheats well and can be made in larger batches for an easy, delicious lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just keep the soup refrigerated and enjoy within a few days.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting and satisfying about a warm bowl of PF Chang’s Hot & Sour Soup Recipe. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or craving a bright, flavorful starter for your meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a go and treat yourself to the vibrant tastes of this beloved dish right at home—you won’t regret it!