Hot and sour soup is a popular Chinese soup that is known for its spicy and tangy flavors. It typically consists of a savory broth made from chicken or vegetable stock, vinegar, and soy sauce. The soup is then filled with various ingredients such as mushrooms, tofu, bamboo shoots, and sometimes meat or seafood. It is often seasoned with chili peppers, ginger, garlic, and other spices to give it a spicy kick. The sourness of the soup comes from the addition of vinegar, which balances out the spiciness. Hot and sour soup is commonly served as an appetizer in Chinese cuisine and is enjoyed for its bold and flavorful taste.