Egg Drop Soup
Egg drop soup is a timeless Chinese classic that delivers flavor, nutrition, and warmth in every spoonful. This simple yet satisfying dish has become a favorite in Chinese households and American restaurants alike. We’ve crafted the most detailed, easy-to-follow egg drop soup recipe that ensures restaurant-quality results with minimal ingredients and prep time.
What is Egg Drop Soup?
Egg drop soup is a light Chinese broth-based soup made by gently drizzling beaten eggs into boiling seasoned chicken broth. The eggs cook into silky ribbons as they hit the hot liquid, creating a beautiful texture and a comforting, savory flavor.
The soup often includes scallions, cornstarch, white pepper, and sesame oil, and can be customized with mushrooms, tofu, corn, or even spinach. It’s a go-to dish when you’re short on time but crave something warm and soothing.
Ingredients for Classic Egg Drop Soup
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | Rich and flavorful soup base |
| Eggs | 2 large | For egg ribbons |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon | For slight thickening |
| Water | 2 tablespoons | To dissolve cornstarch |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Ground white pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Traditional subtle heat |
| Sesame oil | ½ teaspoon | Adds nuttiness and aroma |
| Scallions (sliced) | 2 stalks | For garnish and fresh bite |
| Optional: corn, tofu, spinach, mushrooms | ½ cup | Adds texture, protein, or nutrients |
How to Make Egg Drop Soup at Home
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
Start by pouring the chicken broth into a medium saucepan and bringing it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Add salt and ground white pepper. This step is crucial as the boiling broth cooks the egg ribbons instantly and helps infuse flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Cornstarch Slurry
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until fully dissolved. Stir the slurry into the simmering broth to give the soup a slightly thick consistency.
Step 3: Beat and Pour the Eggs
Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat them well using a fork or whisk. Once the soup is at a rolling simmer, turn the heat down to medium-low and slowly pour the eggs in a thin stream while gently stirring the soup in a circular motion with chopsticks or a fork.
The eggs will cook immediately into soft, feather-like ribbons.
Step 4: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Add the sesame oil and give the soup a final stir. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sliced scallions. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Tips for Perfect Egg Drop Soup Every Time
- Don’t over-stir while adding eggs. A gentle circular motion creates elegant strands.
- Use fresh eggs for richer flavor and firmer texture.
- Add vegetables like corn, carrots, or spinach for a heartier meal.
- Chill your slurry ingredients for better thickening.
- Taste the broth before adding eggs — adjust salt and pepper early.
Variations of Egg Drop Soup
1. Egg Drop Soup with Corn
Add ½ cup of sweet corn kernels before pouring in the eggs. This gives a natural sweetness and extra texture, making the soup more filling.
2. Keto Egg Drop Soup
Use bone broth instead of regular chicken broth and skip the cornstarch. The result is a low-carb version perfect for ketogenic diets.
3. Vegan Egg Drop Soup
Use vegetable broth and substitute the eggs with silken tofu sliced into thin strips. You won’t get egg ribbons, but the texture mimics the original beautifully.
4. Egg Drop Soup with Ginger and Garlic
For added depth, sauté 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and ½ teaspoon of fresh ginger in sesame oil before adding broth. This boosts flavor and adds immunity-boosting properties.
Is Egg Drop Soup Healthy?
Yes. This soup is naturally:
- Low in calories
- High in protein
- Low in fat
- Gluten-free (if you use gluten-free broth and cornstarch)
Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bok choy increases the fiber and nutrient content. It’s an excellent meal for those recovering from illness or seeking something easy on the stomach.
Egg Drop Soup vs. Hot and Sour Soup
| Feature | Egg Drop Soup | Hot and Sour Soup |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Mild, savory | Spicy, tangy |
| Key Ingredients | Eggs, broth, scallions | Vinegar, chili, mushrooms, tofu |
| Texture | Silky and light | Thick, chunky |
| Popular Add-ins | Corn, tofu, spinach | Bamboo shoots, pork |
| Spice Level | Low | Medium to high |
How to Store and Reheat Egg Drop Soup
Storage: Let the soup cool completely and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Reheating: Reheat gently over medium heat. Avoid boiling to preserve the texture of the egg ribbons. Stir occasionally for even heating.
Freezing tip: We don’t recommend freezing as the egg texture may turn rubbery upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make egg drop soup without cornstarch?
Yes. The soup will be thinner but still flavorful. For thickening alternatives, try arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
What broth is best for egg drop soup?
Homemade chicken broth gives the best flavor, but low-sodium store-bought broth is a great time-saver.
Why did my eggs clump instead of forming ribbons?
This happens if the soup is boiling too hard or if the eggs are poured too quickly. Reduce the heat and pour slowly while stirring.
Conclusion
Egg drop soup is a staple of Chinese cuisine for a reason—it’s quick, nutritious, and deeply comforting. Whether you prefer it in its traditional form or enjoy experimenting with add-ins and variations, this soup adapts to your taste and needs. Perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish, or a soothing remedy when under the weather, egg drop soup deserves a regular spot on your meal rotation.
