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The balance of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals makes hot and sour very healthy.
Soups are touted as the holy grail for healthy eating. Moreover, due to their versatility and easy customization, they can become anyone’s favorite meal.
Hot and sour soup is a prime example of one such soup, with each country or region adding its own flair to it. But the main ingredients of a traditional hot and sour soup usually include:
- Mushrooms, mainly shiitake
- Vegetables such as bok choy, carrots, green onions, and bamboo shoots
- Chicken or tofu
- Eggs
- Chili and ginger
Traditionally, the sourness in hot and sour soup comes from the fermented tomatoes that are added to the broth. But not all versions contain them. Some recipes use vinegar or ketchup for the sourness. (1)
The “hot” comes from the addition of chili. (1)
Hot and Sour Soup for Health
The nutritive profile of hot and sour soup will vary based on the ingredients you add to it, but for the large part, these are the benefits of consuming hot and sour soup.
1. Provides protein
Protein is one of the three macronutrients needed by the body in addition to carbohydrates and fats. The addition of shredded chicken or tofu makes hot and sour soup a rich source of protein and can help with: (2)
- Healthy and strong muscles
- Weight loss
- Better blood sugar control (2)
2. Provides micronutrients
The addition of vegetables in hot and sour soup adds fiber to the diet, in addition to micronutrients.
A diet high in vegetables is beneficial in protecting the body from heart diseases, obesity, and damage by free radicals. It is also a source of vitamins and minerals. (3)
Bok choy is a leafy cruciferous vegetable that contains folate, vitamin C, and vitamin K. (4) Regular consumption of bok choy is also useful in preventing cancer. (5)
3. Helps fight colds
The liquid part of hot and sour soup is made from chicken or vegetable broth.
In addition to being easy to digest and full of vitamins, the heat from the soup is also helpful in common colds or sinus infections. It can clear away nasal congestion and provide relief from cough, sneezing, and tiredness. (6)
4. Aids weight loss
Hot and sour soup is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help with weight management. Animal studies have found hot and sour soup prevents the accumulation of fat and reduces cholesterol levels in the blood. (1)
5. Provides hydration
Drinking soups that contain salt is an excellent way to hydrate. Not only does it provide fluid, but the salt provides electrolytes such as sodium. (7)
This is particularly useful during periods of illnesses or cold weather when drinking water may be difficult or unappealing.
Ensuring adequate hydration levels are useful for: (8)
- Maintaining core body temperature
- Regulating regular bowel movement
- Enhancing mood and focus
- Maintaining body weight
Caution
The hot and sour soup you purchase from restaurants may contain excessive amounts of salt or soy sauce, which contributes sodium to the diet. Sodium is notorious for raising blood pressure, but it can also cause water retention and burden the kidneys. (9)
Most-Asked Questions About Hot and Sour Soup
Can I make and store hot and sour soup?
You can make the base for hot and sour soup, i.e., chicken or vegetable broth. It is preferable if you add the vegetables right before consuming.
What can I use instead of corn flour to thicken my soup?
You can use 1 tablespoon of wheat or rice flour as a substitute.
Practical Takeaways
- Hot and sour soup is a low-calorie soup with proteins and veggies. It is a great option as a healthy food.
- It offers many health benefits such as managing weight, increasing bone strength, providing essential vitamins and minerals, providing hydration, and improving the symptoms of colds.
- This soup may contain high amounts of sodium, which can elevate blood pressure.
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