Egg Drop Soup is a classic Chinese dish made with a savory, seasoned broth and silky ribbons of egg. Light, nourishing, and simple to make, this authentic version uses just a few pantry ingredients and comes together in minutes—perfect for a cozy starter or quick lunch.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken broth or stockeggs (lightly beaten)cornstarch (for thickening)watersoy saucewhite pepper (or black pepper if needed)sesame oilgreen onions (sliced)optional: ginger, garlic, sweet corn, tofu
directions
In a pot over medium heat, bring chicken broth to a gentle boil.
Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then slowly stir it into the broth to slightly thicken it.
Add soy sauce, white pepper, and sesame oil to season the broth.
Reduce heat to low. Slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs while gently stirring in one direction to create thin, silky ribbons.
Let simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes
Variations
Add sweet corn or peas for extra texture.
Stir in tofu cubes or shredded chicken for protein.
Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Add a touch of grated ginger or garlic for warmth.
Top with chili oil or sriracha for heat.
storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently over medium heat, stirring to re-blend the soup. Do not boil to preserve egg texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought broth?
Yes, just choose a good-quality low-sodium version for better control of flavor.
What’s the key to silky egg ribbons?
Drizzle eggs slowly into hot, gently stirred broth—don’t pour too fast or stir too aggressively.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure broth is gluten-free.
Can I freeze egg drop soup?
Not recommended, as the eggs may change texture once thawed.
Do I need to add cornstarch?
It’s optional, but helps create a slightly thickened, restaurant-style texture.
Is this soup spicy?
No, but you can add heat with white pepper or chili oil.
What type of eggs should I use?
Standard large eggs work great—freshness matters for best texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just maintain the same ratios and add eggs slowly in batches.
Is this authentic?
Yes! This version mirrors traditional Chinese home-style egg drop soup—simple, clear, and silky.
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, but add the eggs just before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
Egg Drop Soup is a quick, comforting, and beautifully simple dish with authentic flavor and elegant texture. Whether you’re looking for a warm appetizer or a light meal, this easy version delivers classic taste with minimal time and effort—perfect for your homemade Chinese menu.
PrintEgg Drop Soup – Easy and Authentic!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Egg Drop Soup is a classic Chinese comfort dish made with silky ribbons of egg swirled into a savory, seasoned broth. This easy and authentic version comes together quickly with simple ingredients, perfect for a light appetizer or meal starter.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 cup corn kernels or tofu cubes
Instructions
- In a pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat. Add grated ginger, white pepper, and salt.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Stir into the boiling broth to slightly thicken it.
- Reduce heat to low. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
- Slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the soup while stirring the broth in a circular motion to create egg ribbons.
- Once the eggs are cooked (about 1 minute), turn off heat and stir in sesame oil.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Add corn or tofu if using.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra nutrition, add spinach, mushrooms, or cooked chicken.
- White pepper adds authentic flavor, but black pepper can be used as a substitute.
- Control egg ribbon thickness by adjusting the pouring speed and stirring intensity.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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