Egg Drop Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that has its roots in Chinese cuisine. This silky, savory soup is easy to prepare and can be made in less than 20 minutes. Follow this authentic recipe to serve up a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
1. Authentic Egg Drop Soup Recipe (Serves 4)
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- Salt, to taste
- Ground white pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch, mixed with 3 tablespoons water (to make a slurry)
- 1 stalk scallions, finely chopped
Instructions
Prepare the broth: In a medium-sized pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add salt, white pepper, and sesame oil to enhance the flavor.
Create the cornstarch slurry: Combine the cornstarch with equal parts water in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Gradually stir the slurry into the simmering broth until slightly thickened.
Whisk the eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until the whites and yolks are fully combined.
Pour the eggs into the soup: Lower the heat and gently pour the beaten eggs into the simmering broth in a thin, steady stream. Use a fork or chopsticks to stir the soup slowly in a circular motion. This creates the signature ribbon-like egg strands.
Garnish and serve: Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle the chopped scallions on top. Serve the soup warm in bowls, and enjoy its rich, comforting flavors.
2. Tips to Perfect Egg Drop Soup
Use high-quality broth: The broth is the base of the soup, so it’s important to use a flavorful chicken or vegetable broth for the best results. Homemade broth works wonderfully if you have it on hand.
Control the egg ribbons: To achieve silky ribbons, pour the eggs slowly and stir gently. Stirring too quickly can break the ribbons into smaller pieces.
Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add more cornstarch slurry. For a lighter consistency, reduce the amount of slurry or skip it entirely.
Season carefully: White pepper adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor, but it can be strong, so use it sparingly. Taste the soup as you go to achieve the right balance.
3. What to Eat With Egg Drop Soup
Egg Drop Soup pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Here are some ideas:
Fried Rice: A classic combination, fried rice complements the lightness of the soup perfectly.
Spring Rolls or Dumplings: These crispy or steamed appetizers provide a delightful contrast to the smooth texture of the soup.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A side of stir-fried bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas adds a fresh, crunchy element.
Noodles: Serve the soup alongside a bowl of chow mein or lo mein for a hearty, satisfying meal.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, Egg Drop Soup can be stored and reheated with ease:
Storage: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the soup gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the egg ribbons to break apart. If the soup has thickened during storage, add a small amount of broth or water to restore the desired consistency.
This authentic Egg Drop Soup recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a starter or a light main course, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy its warm, savory goodness with your favorite Chinese-inspired sides!
