Egg Drop Soup is a warm and comforting dish made with simple ingredients like chicken broth and fresh eggs. It’s light, silky, and perfect for a quick meal!
This dish is so easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner! I love adding a sprinkle of green onions on top for an extra touch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Broth: I like using low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Homemade broth adds an extra layer of flavor if you have the time!
Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential for creating the silky ribbons. If you prefer a richer flavor, use large eggs. For a vegan alternative, consider using silken tofu blended until smooth, but it won’t yield the same texture.
Cornstarch: This helps thicken the soup. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can replace it with arrowroot powder. Just mix it with cold water similarly!
Ginger: Grated fresh ginger adds a nice warmth. If you don’t have it, ground ginger can work in a pinch but use less—about a quarter of a teaspoon should be enough.
Green Onions: They add freshness and color. You can substitute with chives or shallots if green onions aren’t available, but adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
How Do I Create Silky Egg Ribbons in My Soup?
Getting those perfect egg ribbons can be tricky but fun! The key is to slowly pour the beaten eggs into the hot broth while stirring constantly. Here’s how to do it:
- Beat your eggs well in a bowl to incorporate air, making them fluffier.
- When your broth is hot but not boiling, reduce the heat to avoid curdling the eggs.
- Pour in the eggs slowly, using a fork or whisk to stir the broth gently in one direction.
- Continue stirring until the eggs cook into lovely ribbons—this should only take a minute!
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if your first try isn’t flawless. With a bit of patience, you’ll get the hang of it!
How to Make Egg Drop Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt, to taste
- White pepper or black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Toasted sesame oil, a few drops (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Egg Drop Soup takes approximately 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a quick lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broth:
In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat. If you’re using ginger, add the grated ginger and soy sauce to the broth for some extra flavor.
2. Thicken the Soup:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water until fully dissolved. Stir this slurry into the boiling broth to slightly thicken the soup. Give it a nice stir and watch it transform!
3. Adjust the Heat:
Reduce the heat to low so the broth remains hot but doesn’t boil vigorously. This step is important for creating the silky egg ribbons.
4. Whisk the Eggs:
Beat the eggs lightly in a separate bowl until well mixed. This will help create fluffy ribbons in your soup.
5. Create Egg Ribbons:
Slowly pour the beaten eggs in a thin stream into the hot broth while continuously stirring the soup gently in one direction. This motion helps the eggs cook instantly and creates those beautiful silky ribbons.
6. Let It Sit:
Once all the egg is added, let the soup sit for about 1 minute to finish cooking the egg. This will ensure the egg is tender and incorporated well.
7. Season to Taste:
Season the soup with salt and white or black pepper to taste. If you like a nutty flavor, add a few drops of toasted sesame oil for that extra touch!
8. Serve It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with sliced green onions for a pop of freshness.
9. Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot and enjoy the comforting, silky texture of this classic dish! Perfect as a starter or a light meal!
Egg Drop Soup is simple yet delicious—a true comfort food that warms both the belly and the heart!
Can I Use Vegetable Broth Instead of Chicken Broth?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth makes a great substitute for chicken broth, especially if you want a vegetarian version of this soup. Just ensure it’s a good quality broth for the best flavor!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Sure! You can enhance the soup by adding vegetables like peas, corn, or mushrooms. Just make sure to cook them in the broth before adding the eggs to ensure everything is evenly cooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from getting too thick, as the eggs may absorb liquid when stored.
Can I Make This Soup Without Cornstarch?
Yes! If you’d like to skip the cornstarch, you can make a lighter version of the soup. Just be aware that it won’t have the same slightly thick texture, but it will still be delicious!
