Delicious Egg Drop Soup You Can Make at Home

Egg drop soup is a comforting, light, and flavorful dish that’s a staple in Chinese cuisine. It’s a simple soup made with beaten eggs, seasoned broth, and a touch of cornstarch for a smooth, silky texture. The name “egg drop” refers to the process of gently pouring the egg into the hot broth, creating delicate ribbons of egg, which swirl and form the signature silky texture. This recipe is an easy and quick version of the beloved dish that you can make at home in just 15 minutes!

Why You Should Make Egg Drop Soup at Home

While egg drop soup is commonly found in Chinese restaurants, making it at home offers several advantages:

• Customizable: You have complete control over the ingredients and seasoning. You can skip MSG, adjust salt levels, or add extra vegetables.
• No Artificial Additives: Many restaurant versions may contain preservatives or artificial flavor enhancers. Making it yourself ensures that you’re using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
• Quick and Easy: This soup only takes about 15 minutes to make, which is quicker than ordering from a restaurant and waiting for delivery!
• Healthier Option: When made at home, you can adjust the fat content by choosing leaner broths or low-sodium options.

What You Need to Make Egg Drop Soup

To make egg drop soup, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this savory dish:

Basic Ingredients:

• Chicken Stock/Broth: The foundation of the soup. For the best flavor, opt for homemade or high-quality organic chicken broth.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a subtle, nutty flavor to the soup and enhances the overall aroma.
• Salt and White Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential to balance the flavors of the broth.
• Sugar: A pinch of sugar helps balance out the salty and savory elements in the soup.
• Turmeric or Yellow Food Coloring: This step is optional, but it gives the soup the classic yellow color that many people expect from restaurant-style egg drop soup.
• Cornstarch Slurry: This is a mixture of cornstarch and water that is used to thicken the soup. It provides a silky texture and body to the broth.
• Eggs: The star ingredient! Beaten eggs are poured into the simmering broth to create delicate egg ribbons.
• Scallions: Chopped green onions are used as a garnish to add freshness and a mild onion flavor to the soup.

How to Make Egg Drop Soup

Making egg drop soup at home is quick and easy. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful, comforting bowl of soup that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant.

1. Simmer the Broth

In a medium-sized soup pot, pour the chicken stock and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the sesame oil, salt, sugar, and white pepper. If you want the classic yellow color, add turmeric or a few drops of yellow food coloring. Stir until everything is well combined and the soup begins to heat through.

2. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry

To thicken the soup, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. In a small bowl, add 3 tablespoons of cornstarch and 1/3 cup of cold water. Stir until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering broth while stirring continuously. This will thicken the soup and give it the signature silky texture. Continue to simmer the soup for 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

3. Add the Eggs

This is the most exciting part! Beat the eggs lightly in a small bowl. Stir the soup in a circular motion with a ladle or spoon to create a whirlpool effect. Slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the simmering broth. The stirring motion will cause the eggs to form delicate ribbons and “egg flowers” in the soup. Continue stirring gently to create more swirls until all the eggs are added.

4. Taste and Adjust Seasonings

Once the eggs are fully incorporated, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add a little more salt, pepper, or sugar depending on your preferences. If the soup feels too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

5. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions for a fresh, crunchy bite. You can also add a little extra sesame oil or a drizzle of soy sauce for added flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Egg Drop Soup

To make sure your egg drop soup turns out just right every time, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

Use Quality Chicken Stock: For the best flavor, use homemade or high-quality organic chicken broth. Store-bought broth often contains added preservatives, so it’s best to opt for a natural option when possible.

Stir Slowly: The key to perfect egg ribbons is stirring the soup in a circular motion. This will allow the eggs to cook evenly and create the signature “egg flowers.” If you prefer larger egg ribbons, stir more slowly.

Adjust the Thickness: The cornstarch slurry helps thicken the soup, but you can adjust the amount depending on your preference. For a thicker soup, add a bit more cornstarch; for a thinner, lighter soup, use less.

Customize the Flavor: If you like a more intense flavor, consider adding a few drops of soy sauce or a splash of rice vinegar to the soup. You can also experiment with adding a small amount of ginger or garlic for extra depth.

Egg Consistency: Some people prefer a very smooth, silky egg drop soup, while others like larger chunks of eggs. Adjust the speed of your stirring to create the egg texture you desire.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some mistakes to avoid when making egg drop soup:

Not Stirring the Soup Enough: Stirring the soup is essential to getting the perfect egg ribbons. If you don’t stir enough, the eggs will clump together and won’t form those delicate swirls.

Using Too Much Cornstarch: While cornstarch helps thicken the soup, using too much can make it overly thick and gloopy. Start with the recommended amount, and add more only if necessary.

Overheating the Eggs: If you add the eggs to the soup while it’s boiling, they will cook too quickly and turn rubbery. Make sure the soup is at a simmer before adding the eggs.

What to Serve with Egg Drop Soup

Egg drop soup is light and flavorful on its own, but it also pairs well with several dishes to create a full meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with this soup:

Fried Rice: A classic pairing, fried rice complements the light, delicate flavor of egg drop soup. Try vegetable fried rice or a protein-packed version with chicken or shrimp.

Spring Rolls: Crispy, fresh spring rolls are the perfect appetizer to enjoy before or alongside egg drop soup. They add crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the soup.

Dim Sum: Serve egg drop soup with a variety of dim sum dishes like dumplings or bao buns. These small, flavorful bites make for a great combination with the soup.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Egg drop soup is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before refrigerating it.

Reheating: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the eggs. If the soup has thickened too much, add a little more broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

FAQs On Egg Drop Soup

1. What is egg drop soup made of?

Egg drop soup is made from a simple combination of chicken broth, beaten eggs, cornstarch (to thicken the broth), and seasonings such as sesame oil, salt, white pepper, and sugar. Additional ingredients like turmeric or yellow food coloring may be used to give the soup its classic yellow color. Garnishes like chopped scallions or cilantro can also be added for extra flavor.

2. Is Chinese egg drop soup healthy?

Yes, egg drop soup can be a healthy option. It’s low in calories and fat, especially when made with homemade or low-sodium chicken broth. The eggs provide protein, and the soup is light but satisfying. However, you can control the amount of seasoning and avoid excess sodium or MSG by preparing it at home. It’s also naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary restrictions.

3. How does egg drop soup taste?

Egg drop soup has a savory and slightly sweet flavor, with a silky, smooth texture from the egg ribbons. The chicken broth is rich and comforting, and the addition of sesame oil and white pepper adds depth and warmth to the soup. The eggs give it a soft, creamy consistency, and the seasoning is mild but flavorful.

4. Can I make egg drop soup vegetarian?

Yes, egg drop soup can be easily made vegetarian by replacing chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also omit any meat or animal-based ingredients while still enjoying the creamy texture and savory taste of the soup. For added protein, consider adding tofu or extra vegetables.

5. How long does egg drop soup last?

Egg drop soup is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. When reheating, be sure to do so over low heat to avoid overcooking the eggs and making the soup too thick. You may need to add a little water or broth to restore the desired consistency.

Egg Drop Soup Recipe Card

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 4 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• ¾ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ⅛ teaspoon sugar
• ⅛ teaspoon white pepper
• ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, or 5 drops yellow food coloring)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with ⅓ cup water)
• 3 eggs (lightly beaten)
• 1 scallion (chopped, for garnish)
• ¼ teaspoon MSG (optional, to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth:
   In a medium soup pot, bring the chicken stock (or vegetable broth) to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the sesame oil, salt, sugar, and white pepper. Add turmeric or yellow food coloring, if using, for the classic yellow color.

2. Make the Cornstarch Slurry:
   In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with ⅓ cup of cold water to create a slurry. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering broth while stirring continuously to avoid clumps.

3. Add the Eggs:
   Once the soup has thickened to your liking, stir the soup in a circular motion. Slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs. The stirring motion will create delicate egg ribbons or “egg flowers” in the soup.

4. Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of soy sauce for added flavor.

5. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes:

• Customize the Soup: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tofu to make it more hearty.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any animal-based ingredients.
• Make Ahead: The soup is best served fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, add a little more broth if necessary to adjust the consistency.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Method: Simmering and Drizzling

Cuisine: Chinese