Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Egg Drop Soup is a comforting Chinese classic known for its silky egg ribbons and light, savory broth. Made with simple ingredients, this quick and easy recipe brings authentic restaurant-style flavor to your table in under 20 minutes. It’s perfect as a starter or a light meal and can be customized to your taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken brothcornstarchwatereggswhite peppergingersesames oilsaltscallions (for garnish)optional: soy sauce, peas, or corn

directions

In a pot over medium heat, bring the chicken broth, salt, white pepper, and ginger to a gentle boil.

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then slowly add it to the simmering broth, stirring continuously until slightly thickened.

In another bowl, beat the eggs well.

Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the soup in a thin stream while gently stirring in a circular motion to create silky ribbons.

Add a few drops of sesame oil for flavor and stir gently.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with more salt or a dash of soy sauce.

Garnish with chopped scallions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add cooked corn or peas for extra texture and sweetness.

Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Stir in a touch of soy sauce or white vinegar for a flavor twist.

Include tofu cubes or cooked chicken for added protein.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the texture of the egg ribbons.Avoid boiling the soup when reheating to prevent eggs from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

What is Egg Drop Soup made of?

It’s made from a seasoned broth with cornstarch for slight thickness and beaten eggs stirred in to create ribbons.

Why are my egg ribbons too thin or too thick?

Pour the eggs in a thin stream while stirring gently. For thicker ribbons, pour more slowly and stir less.

Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, vegetable or mushroom broth are good alternatives to chicken broth.

Is Egg Drop Soup gluten-free?

It can be if you use gluten-free soy sauce and check that your broth and cornstarch are certified gluten-free.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add a pinch of white pepper or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Can I freeze Egg Drop Soup?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can affect the texture of the eggs.

Can I add noodles?

Yes, you can stir in cooked noodles for a heartier version.

What kind of eggs should I use?

Any fresh large eggs work well.

Can I add mushrooms?

Yes, thinly sliced mushrooms like shiitake or button mushrooms pair nicely.

Is this soup suitable for kids?

Absolutely—it’s mild, nutritious, and easy to digest.

Conclusion

Egg Drop Soup is a timeless dish that’s as nourishing as it is easy to make. With its warm broth, delicate egg ribbons, and subtle flavors, it’s the perfect starter or light meal for any day. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to comfort soup.