Hot and Sour Soup (1 Cup)

Choose a broth-based hot and sour soup with tofu, mushrooms, egg, bamboo shoots, and non-starchy vegetables; ask for minimal cornstarch slurry.

Request no added sugar, sweet chili sauce, or sugary bottled sauce, and use vinegar, chili, white pepper, or garlic for extra flavor instead.

Have a small protein-rich starter or side first, such as plain tofu, egg, or edamame, then eat the soup slowly.

Skip crispy wontons, noodles, fried rice, and other refined-starch sides; pair the soup with a non-starchy vegetable dish if you need more food.

Keep the portion moderate, since restaurant soups can contain more thickener and sodium than expected.

Take a 10–20 minute easy walk after the meal, if appropriate for your health and mobility.