Egg drop soup is a Chinese restaurant favorite that is not only quick and easy to make but also nourishing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish on a cold day or need something simple to whip up in about 15 minutes, this egg drop soup ticks all the boxes. Here’s how you can make this delicious soup at home with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon tamari soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, but adds color and flavor)
- A pinch of ground white pepper
- Green onion for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry
Start by taking ¼ cup of the chicken broth and mixing it with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a small bowl or measuring cup. Stir until smooth. This slurry helps add a silky texture to the soup.
2. Prepare the Eggs
In another small bowl or measuring cup, crack the 3 eggs and lightly beat them. Using a measuring cup is recommended to make it easier to pour the eggs into the pot later and form the signature egg ribbons.
3. Simmer the Broth
Pour the remaining chicken broth into a pot over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Once it reaches a simmer, add the ginger, salt, sesame oil, tamari soy sauce, turmeric, and white pepper. Whisk to combine.
4. Add the Cornstarch Slurry
Pour the cornstarch slurry into the pot, stirring gently. This will thicken the broth slightly, giving it a smooth, rich texture.
5. Create the Egg Ribbons
To form the egg ribbons, create a vortex in the soup by stirring it with a whisk. Slowly stream in the beaten eggs in the opposite direction of the whisking. It’s important to let the eggs set for about 30 seconds before adding more of the egg mixture. This ensures you get defined, delicate egg ribbons. Stir gently once the egg ribbons have set, then add any remaining eggs.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once the eggs have fully cooked and the soup has thickened, ladle the egg drop soup into bowls. Garnish with thinly sliced green onion for a fresh touch.
Tips for Perfect Egg Drop Soup
- Slowly Add Eggs: The key to perfect egg ribbons is adding the eggs slowly and allowing them to cook gently. Stir too quickly, and you’ll end up with a cloudy soup rather than delicate ribbons.
- Optional Add-ins: For added flavor and texture, try adding corn, sautéed mushrooms, or even crab meat. These variations can make the soup heartier and more filling.
- Perfect for Any Season: The combination of warm chicken broth, turmeric, and ginger is not only comforting but also helps with digestion and provides anti-inflammatory benefits—perfect for the colder months or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Conclusion: A Versatile and Comforting Dish
This egg drop soup is an easy-to-digest and highly nourishing dish. The simplicity of the ingredients, including chicken broth and eggs, makes it an ideal choice for a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s also versatile—feel free to experiment with different additions to suit your tastes.
Whether you’re in need of a comforting bowl of soup during the chilly season or a quick and healthy option for a busy weeknight, this egg drop soup recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your repertoire. The combination of warming flavors, silky texture, and nutritious ingredients makes it a perfect choice for nourishing both your body and soul.
