Hunan Sour Beef Soup
Hunan Sour Beef Soup is a vibrant, tangy soup from China's Hunan province, known for its bold, spicy, and sour flavors. It typically features tender slices of beef, pickled vegetables like mustard greens or tomatoes, and fresh herbs such as cilantro, all simmered in a broth seasoned with chili and vinegar.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in protein from the beef, moderate in fat depending on the cut and cooking method, and low in carbohydrates. It provides key nutrients like iron, vitamin C from the sour elements, and probiotics if fermented ingredients are used, with a rough calorie ballpark of 250-350 per serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.5 µg |
| Iron | 3.0 mg |
| Zinc | 4.5 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 200 mg |
| Selenium | 15 µg |
Per 1 bowl (350 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it reflects Hunan's love for 'sour and spicy' flavors, which are believed to stimulate appetite and aid digestion in traditional Chinese food philosophy. Nutritionally, the combination of lean protein and acidic components like vinegar may enhance nutrient absorption, making it both flavorful and functional.
