Egg Drop Soup is a classic Chinese soup that’s quick, easy, and incredibly comforting. This light yet flavorful soup features delicate ribbons of egg floating in a seasoned broth, creating a beautiful and delicious dish. It’s perfect for a quick meal or as a starter to a larger Asian-inspired feast. Let’s dive into this simple recipe and learn how to make Egg Drop Soup step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth, or chicken stock)
- 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
- Mix Cornstarch and Broth:
- In a medium bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 1/2 cup of the chicken broth to create a slurry. Set aside.
- Heat Broth:
- In a large pot, bring the remaining 5 1/2 cups of chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add Flavors:
- Stir in the sesame oil, white parts of the green onions, ground ginger, ground turmeric, ground white pepper, and soy sauce. Simmer for about 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 2: Thicken the Soup
- Add Cornstarch Slurry:
- Slowly stir the cornstarch slurry into the simmering broth. Continue to stir until the soup thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
- Create Egg Ribbons:
- Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour the lightly beaten eggs into the soup in a thin stream while gently stirring the soup in one direction. This will create the delicate ribbons of egg.
- Cook Eggs:
- Let the eggs cook in the hot broth for about 1 minute until they are just set and form silky ribbons.
Step 4: Serve
- Add Green Onions:
- Stir in the green parts of the chopped green onions.
- Season to Taste:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce, white pepper, or salt if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Cornstarch Slurry: Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the broth to avoid clumping.
- Eggs: Pour the eggs slowly while stirring the soup gently to create thin ribbons. Stirring too quickly or pouring too fast can result in clumps rather than ribbons.
- Broth: Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the salt level. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Variations
Spicy Egg Drop Soup
- Add Spice:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a spicy kick.
Vegetable Egg Drop Soup
- Add Vegetables:
- Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, peas, or mushrooms to the broth before adding the cornstarch slurry.
Egg Drop Soup with Tofu
- Add Tofu:
- Add 1 cup of diced tofu to the broth along with the green onions for added protein.
Serving Suggestions
With Sides
- With Fried Rice:
- Serve alongside fried rice for a complete meal.
- With Spring Rolls:
- Pair with spring rolls or dumplings for an appetizer course.
With Garnishes
- With Fresh Herbs:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
- With Sesame Seeds:
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty flavor.
With Beverages
- With Green Tea:
- Enjoy with a hot cup of green tea for a traditional pairing.
- With Jasmine Tea:
- Serve with jasmine tea for a floral complement.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of broth? A: Yes, you can use vegetable broth or chicken stock if you prefer. Adjust the seasoning as needed based on the broth’s salt content.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Egg Drop Soup? A: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the eggs may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Q: Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger? A: Yes, you can use 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger instead of ground ginger for a more intense flavor.
Q: What if I don’t have white pepper? A: You can use black pepper as a substitute, though white pepper is traditional for its milder flavor and appearance.
Egg Drop Soup is a simple yet comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its delicate egg ribbons, flavorful broth, and light seasoning, this soup is sure to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, Egg Drop Soup is easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful soup with your family and friends!