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If you’ve ever longed for a comforting, silky bowl of warmth that feels both soothing and surprisingly sophisticated, you are going to adore this Egg Drop Soup Recipe. This classic Chinese soup is a perfect blend of flavorful broth and delicate ribbons of egg, creating a dish that’s quick to make yet endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re in need of a light lunch, a cozy starter, or just a moment of pure culinary bliss, this Egg Drop Soup Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes an Egg Drop Soup so irresistible? It’s the harmony of simple, wholesome ingredients that build layers of flavor and texture without any fuss. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring your soup is vibrant, silky, and comforting.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: This is the soul of the soup, providing a savory base that’s both light and rich.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps to gently thicken the broth, giving it that smooth, velvety texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle warmth and aromatic brightness, lifting the overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Infuses the soup with a nutty, fragrant depth that’s simply irresistible.
- 1/4 teaspoon tamari soy sauce: Provides a touch of umami and a gentle savory note.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional): Brightens the soup with a golden hue, making it even more inviting.
- Pinch of ground white pepper: Adds mild heat without overpowering the broth.
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten: The star ingredient, transforming into delicate, silky strands throughout the soup.
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced on a diagonal: A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds crunch and color.
How to Make Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Base Ingredients
Begin by gathering your broth, cornstarch, and seasonings in a medium saucepan. Mixing the ground ginger, kosher salt, toasted sesame oil, tamari soy sauce, turmeric if you’re using it, and white pepper into the broth ensures every spoonful bursts with nuanced flavor from the very start.
Step 2: Bring to a Gentle Simmer
Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally as the mixture heats. Patience here is key—the slow simmer lets all those seasonings meld, while the cornstarch begins working its magic to thicken the broth just enough.
Step 3: Create the Signature Egg Ribbons
Once your broth is gently simmering, slowly pour the beaten eggs into the pot in a thin, steady stream. Stir the broth gently in a circular motion at the same time—this motion is what creates the silky ribbons of egg, transforming the soup into something truly special.
Step 4: Let the Eggs Cook Gently
Continue stirring softly for 1 to 2 minutes until the egg ribbons fully form. This step takes just the right touch—too quick or vigorous, and the texture won’t be as delicate and lovely.
Step 5: Turn Off the Heat
As soon as the eggs are cooked and the soup is bubbling with inviting warmth, remove the saucepan from the heat. This helps maintain the perfect texture and keeps the eggs tender.
Step 6: Garnish with Fresh Green Onions
Ladle your soup into bowls and sprinkle thinly sliced green onions on top. This simple garnish adds a fresh, crisp brightness that balances beautifully with the savory broth and silky eggs.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy!
Serve immediately while warm and savor every spoonful of your homemade Egg Drop Soup Recipe. It’s truly a bowl of comfort that feels like a gentle hug on a chilly day.
How to Serve Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While green onions are a classic topping, don’t hesitate to add a few dashes of toasted sesame seeds or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh cilantro for extra flavor and color. A few drops of chili oil can also provide a subtle kick, elevating the experience perfectly.
Side Dishes
Egg Drop Soup pairs wonderfully with light, fresh side dishes. Think steamed dumplings, a crisp cucumber salad, or simply a bowl of jasmine rice to soak up the silky broth. It’s a versatile starter that complements all kinds of Asian-inspired meals seamlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting friends or want to impress, serve the soup in small, elegant bowls garnished with edible flowers or finely sliced herbs. You can also present it with a side of crispy wonton strips or homemade croutons for an unexpected crunch and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Egg Drop Soup is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup can keep well for up to 2 days, although the egg ribbons may thicken or change texture slightly.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this Egg Drop Soup Recipe because the delicate egg strands can become rubbery and the broth’s texture might separate when thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
When you’re ready to eat leftovers, gently reheat the soup on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the eggs from toughening. Avoid boiling, as it can overcook the eggs and alter the soup’s silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth makes this recipe vegetarian-friendly and still yields a deliciously flavorful soup. Just be sure the broth is well-seasoned to maintain that rich taste.
What if I don’t have tamari soy sauce?
You can substitute tamari with regular soy sauce or coconut aminos. Each option adds umami notes, but tamari is fantastic because it’s usually gluten-free and less salty.
How do I make sure my egg ribbons are thin and delicate?
The key is pouring the beaten eggs slowly in a thin stream while stirring the simmering broth gently in a circular motion. Practice makes perfect, but this technique will give you those beautiful, silky strands.
Can I add vegetables or protein to this soup?
Definitely! Finely chopped mushrooms, corn kernels, or shredded cooked chicken are excellent additions. Just add them to the broth during simmering before introducing the eggs.
Is this soup spicy?
By nature, this Egg Drop Soup Recipe is mild and comforting. However, you can spice it up by adding chili flakes, a drizzle of chili oil, or freshly cracked white pepper for a bit of heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely heartwarming about making a bowl of soup from scratch, and this Egg Drop Soup Recipe proves that simplicity can be downright spectacular. Its quick prep, soothing flavors, and elegant texture make it a beloved classic that anyone can master. So grab your eggs and broth, and dive into a bowl of comfort today—you won’t regret it!
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Egg Drop Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This comforting Egg Drop Soup recipe features a delicate blend of savory chicken broth and silky egg ribbons, flavored with ginger, sesame oil, and a hint of turmeric for a warm, soothing bowl of soup. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a quick and easy starter or light meal that brings classic Chinese flavors into your kitchen.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 cups (one 32-ounce carton) low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon tamari soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color)
- Pinch of ground white pepper
Egg and Garnish
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced on a diagonal
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix the broth, cornstarch, ground ginger, kosher salt, toasted sesame oil, tamari soy sauce, optional turmeric, and white pepper until well combined.
- Simmer the Broth: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps from forming and ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
- Add the Eggs: Once the broth is simmering, slowly pour the lightly beaten eggs in a thin stream into the pot while gently stirring the broth in a circular motion. This creates the signature silky ribbons of egg.
- Cook the Egg Strands: Continue stirring gently for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the eggs to fully cook and form delicate, soft strands throughout the soup.
- Remove from Heat: When the eggs have set, take the soup off the heat to prevent overcooking and maintain the tender texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the finished soup into bowls and garnish with the thinly sliced green onions for a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Enjoy: Serve the egg drop soup hot as a comforting appetizer or light meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
- Adjust salt to taste since broth and soy sauce contribute saltiness.
- Add a pinch of white pepper carefully as it has a strong flavor.
- Turmeric is optional but adds a lovely golden color without impacting taste significantly.
- Make sure to pour eggs slowly and stir gently to get the best texture.
- Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
