Hot and Sour Soup

Step 1

Freeze the pork tenderloin until firm, about 30 minutes; slice it into very thin slices, then into narrow strips. Refrigerate the pork. Put the tree ear mushrooms in a small bowl and the shiitake in another. Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Pour the hot water over the mushrooms and set them aside to re-hydrate for about 30 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, combine the broth, garlic, ginger, in a large sauce pan. Crush the white part of 1 scallion with the side of a knife, add to the pan, simmer, covered for 15 minutes.

Step 3

Thinly slice the remaining scallions and reserve. Remove the mushrooms from the water and discard the liquid. Squeeze out any excess moisture from the shiitake and thinly slice.

Step 4

Remove the garlic, ginger, and scallion from the broth and discard. Add the mushrooms, soy, vinegar, pepper, and salt and bring to a simmer. Whisk in the cornstarch mixture, bring to a boil, and then simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes. Pour the egg into the soup and stir once to make delicate threads. Stir in the remaining scallions, oil, tofu, and pork, return to a simmer. Remove from the heat to prevent the meat from getting tough, adjust seasonings to taste. Serve immediately.