This Egg Drop Soup is a classic Chinese comfort food that’s both light and flavorful. With a simple broth, delicate egg ribbons, and a touch of sesame oil, this soup is incredibly easy to make and ready in just 15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup is perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a light lunch, as it comes together in just minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Comforting and Flavorful: The delicate egg ribbons and flavorful broth create a satisfying and comforting soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this soup with your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or carrots, or add a protein like tofu or shredded chicken.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Egg Drop Soup:
- Chicken broth: Low sodium, for a flavorful base.
- Soy sauce: Low sodium, adds a salty and umami flavor.
- Cornstarch: Used to thicken the soup slightly.
- Water: Used to make a slurry with the cornstarch.
- Eggs: Beaten, creates delicate ribbons in the soup.
- Sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Chives: Chopped, for garnish and a mild onion flavor.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Egg Drop Soup
Step 1: Combine the Soup Stock
In a small saucepan, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
Step 2: Thicken with Cornstarch
While the broth is heating, stir together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until the cornstarch is dissolved. Once the broth comes to a boil, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while whisking constantly. This will thicken the soup slightly.
Step 3: Create the Egg Ribbons
With one hand whisking the soup continuously, slowly pour the beaten eggs into the boiling broth with the other hand. Pour the eggs in a thin, steady stream while whisking to create those beautiful, delicate egg ribbons.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped chives. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use high-quality broth: The better the quality of your broth, the better the flavor of the soup.
- Don’t overcook the eggs: Pour the eggs slowly and whisk continuously to prevent them from overcooking and becoming rubbery.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your liking.
How to Serve Egg Drop Soup
- Light Lunch or Dinner: This Egg Drop Soup is a perfect light and refreshing meal for lunch or dinner.
- Starter: Serve it as a simple and flavorful starter for an Asian-inspired meal.
- Side Dish: Enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite Chinese or Japanese dishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You may want to add a bit of water to the soup before reheating, as it will thicken as it sits.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezing:
This soup doesn’t freeze well, as the egg ribbons may become rubbery and the texture of the soup may change upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth or beef broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I add other ingredients to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as chopped spinach, sliced mushrooms, or shredded carrots, to the soup. You can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
How can I make this soup thicker?
You can add more cornstarch slurry or simmer the soup uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid and thicken it.
There you have it! A classic and delicious recipe for Egg Drop Soup that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
PrintEgg Drop Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Egg Drop Soup is a classic Chinese dish that’s simple to make and perfect for a light lunch or a comforting starter. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a flavorful and satisfying soup in minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
Instructions
- Heat Broth: In a saucepan, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Thicken with Cornstarch: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the boiling broth while stirring constantly.
- Create Egg Ribbons: Reduce heat to low. While continuously whisking the soup, slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs. The eggs should form thin ribbons as they cook in the hot broth.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover soup in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Add a little water before reheating, as the soup will thicken as it sits.
- Freezing: This soup does not freeze well due to the egg.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 80kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 100mg