If you have ever yearned for a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Egg Drop Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. With its silky, delicate egg ribbons swimming in a flavorful broth, this soup is the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. Whether you’re looking for a quick starter or a light meal, this soup brings together a medley of gentle, savory flavors that can be whipped up in just 15 minutes. It’s nourishing, satisfying, and guaranteed to brighten any day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Egg Drop Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward, carefully selected ingredients. Each one plays a key role—from the rich, savory chicken broth that serves as the base to the fresh eggs that give the soup its signature texture and look. These essentials work together to create a dish that’s both visually appealing and incredibly tasty.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a flavorful, light base without overwhelming saltiness, allowing other ingredients to shine.
- 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce: Adds a subtle umami depth that enhances the broth’s savoriness.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent to give the soup a silkier, slightly viscous texture.
- 2 tablespoons water: Used to make the cornstarch slurry, ensuring a smooth, clump-free consistency.
- 4 large eggs, beaten: Creates the delicate ribbons that are the heart and soul of the soup.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Infuses the broth with a gentle, nutty aroma that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste: Balances the flavors without overpowering the soup.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds a mild kick that lingers softly on the palate.
- ¼ cup chopped chives: Provides a fresh, green burst of color and a subtle onion flavor as a finishing touch.
How to Make Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Step 1: Heat Broth
Start by pouring your low-sodium chicken broth into a saucepan. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil for that essential depth of flavor. Bring this savory mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. This step is all about building that rich, comforting base where every other ingredient will shine.
Step 2: Thicken with Cornstarch
While your broth heats, whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a smooth slurry. Slowly pour this into the boiling broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This technique thickens the soup just enough to give it a silky, inviting texture without being heavy—promise it will make every spoonful feel luxurious.
Step 3: Create Egg Ribbons
Reduce the heat to low, and here comes the fun part. With a whisk or fork, gently but continuously stir the broth in one direction. Slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs, allowing them to cook on contact with the hot liquid. You’ll see these beautiful, thin ribbons form as the egg cooks instantly. It’s both mesmerizing and rewarding to watch your soup come alive like this.
Step 4: Season and Serve
The final step is all about balance. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, taking care not to overpower the delicate flavors you’ve built. Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped chives for a pop of color and an aromatic lift. Serve your soup immediately to enjoy its perfect temperature and texture.
How to Serve Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped chives are the classic way to finish this soup because they add a fresh, mild onion note and lovely green contrast. However, feel free to experiment with finely sliced scallions, a dash of white pepper for extra spice, or even a drizzle of chili oil if you like a little heat. These small touches personalize your bowl and make it look irresistible.
Side Dishes
Egg drop soup pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or light vegetable stir-fry. If you’re creating a fuller meal, consider crispy spring rolls or a crunchy Asian slaw for textural variety. The soup’s gentle flavors help balance out richer, more complex dishes and provide a satisfying, soothing complement.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve this Egg Drop Soup Recipe in elegant clear glass bowls to showcase the signature egg ribbons swirling in the broth. Garnish each bowl individually just before serving to keep everything fresh. For a more playful touch, place a few thin carrot curls or edible flowers on top to brighten the presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Egg drop soup is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly as the egg ribbons continue to absorb the broth.
Freezing
Freezing is generally not recommended for this soup because the delicate egg ribbons tend to separate and become rubbery once thawed. If you want to prepare ahead, store the broth and any seasonings separately and add fresh beaten eggs at reheating time.
Reheating
To reheat, pour the soup into a saucepan and warm gently over low heat. Stir occasionally to redistribute the egg ribbons without breaking them up too much. Avoid boiling again to preserve the soup’s silky texture and appetizing appearance.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly version. Just choose a flavorful broth to keep the soup tasty.
How can I make my egg ribbons look more defined?
Whisk continuously in one direction while slowly drizzling in the beaten eggs. The gentle motion helps create thinner, more distinct ribbons rather than clumps.
Is it possible to add vegetables to Egg Drop Soup?
Definitely. Finely chopped mushrooms, peas, corn, or shredded carrots can be added to the broth before bringing it to a boil to add texture and nutrition without overpowering the dish.
What kind of soy sauce should I use?
Low-sodium soy sauce is ideal to maintain the right balance of saltiness, but regular soy sauce works fine if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the salt accordingly.
Can this soup be made vegan?
To make a vegan version, use vegetable broth and replace the eggs with silken tofu that is gently crushed or blended for a similar texture. You can also find egg replacers for a closer match if desired.
Final Thoughts
This Egg Drop Soup Recipe is one of those wonderful dishes that feels like pure comfort in every spoonful. It’s quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a quick nourishing meal. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the magic of those delicate egg ribbons swimming in a flavorful, silky broth. Once you do, it might just become your go-to comfort soup!
Print
Egg Drop Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A simple and comforting Egg Drop Soup made with low-sodium chicken broth, soy sauce, and delicate ribbons of beaten eggs. This quick recipe is perfect for a light meal or appetizer, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Thickener
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Egg Mixture
- 4 large eggs, beaten
Garnish
- ¼ cup chopped chives
Instructions
- Heat Broth: In a saucepan, combine the chicken broth, low-sodium soy sauce, and sesame oil. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Thicken with Cornstarch: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the boiling broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps and to thicken the soup slightly.
- Create Egg Ribbons: Reduce the heat to low. While continuously whisking the broth, slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs. The eggs will cook instantly and form delicate thin ribbons or strands within the soup.
- Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to your taste. Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped chives, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth and soy sauce to keep sodium levels in check.
- Continuous whisking while adding eggs helps create thin, smooth egg ribbons.
- You can substitute chives with green onions if preferred.
- Serving immediately ensures the eggs remain tender and soup temperature is optimal.
