As I chopped scallions one evening, a fragrant aroma filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me to the comforting corners of my favorite Chinese restaurant. That’s when I decided to whip up a pot of Quick & Easy Egg Drop Soup, a dish that had always been a family favorite. This low-sodium recipe not only brings warmth and nostalgia but also comes together in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a cozy late-night snack. With silky ribbons of egg gently swirling in a light broth, it’s truly the epitome of comfort food. So, are you ready to bring a bit of that restaurant magic home and create your own warm bowl of happiness?
Why is Egg Drop Soup a Favorite?
Simplicity at Its Best: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for anyone, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef.
Warm, Comforting Flavor: The combination of low-sodium chicken broth and silky eggs creates a soothing dish that warms you from the inside out.
Ready in Minutes: In under 10 minutes, you can elevate your weeknight dinners from mundane to extraordinary with this delightful soup.
Versatile and Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins, like chicken or tofu, to make it even heartier!
Family-Friendly Option: Kids and adults alike will love it—serve alongside some stir-fried greens or dumplings for a complete meal that pleases everyone.
Bring home this comforting classic and whisk your family away to flavors of your favorite Asian restaurant!
Egg Drop Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to create warmth in your kitchen with these simple ingredients!
For the Broth
- Low-sodium chicken broth – This flavorful base keeps the soup light; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Cornstarch – This thickener adds a silky texture; arrowroot is a great gluten-free alternative.
- Toasted sesame oil – Infuses the soup with a nutty aroma; use olive oil or omit for lower fat options.
- Kosher salt – Enhances flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Ground white pepper – Offers a gentle kick; black pepper works well if that’s what you have on hand.
For the Eggs
- Large eggs – The stars of the dish, creating those signature ribbons; remember to beat them lightly before adding them to the broth.
Optional Enhancements
- Soy sauce or tamari – Adds an extra umami depth; tamari is perfect for gluten-free cooking.
- Scallion, sliced – Provides a fresh garnish and adds a pop of flavor to finish your dish beautifully.
With these key ingredients in hand, you’re one step closer to enjoying a warm bowl of homemade Egg Drop Soup that your family will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Egg Drop Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture
In a small bowl, measure out 1/4 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and whisk in the cornstarch until completely dissolved. This mixture is essential for thickening your Egg Drop Soup later, so make sure it’s smooth with no lumps. Set it aside as you prepare the broth.
Step 2: Boil the Chicken Broth
In a medium saucepan, pour in the remaining chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Watch for small bubbles breaking the surface, which indicates the broth is hot and ready. This rich base will enhance the flavors of your comforting Egg Drop Soup.
Step 3: Season the Broth
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the toasted sesame oil, kosher salt, and ground white pepper. Stir well for about 30 seconds to combine the flavors, allowing them to infuse into the broth. The warm aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for the creamy texture to come.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the simmering broth while continuously stirring with a whisk. Keep stirring for about 1 minute, or until the soup slightly thickens and becomes velvety. You’ll know it’s ready when you see a subtle swirl pattern forming in the broth.
Step 5: Add the Beaten Eggs
Lower the heat to a simmer and use a gentle stirring motion to slowly pour in the beaten large eggs. Aim to add them in a thin stream; this will create the signature silky ribbons in your Egg Drop Soup. Continue to stir lightly for about 30 seconds to help the eggs set perfectly.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the Egg Drop Soup sit for 1 minute to allow the residual heat to finish cooking the eggs without overcooking them. You’ll see tender, delicate egg ribbons just beneath the surface of the broth, creating an inviting texture.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or soy sauce according to your preference. Serve the soup hot, garnishing each bowl with sliced scallions for a fresh pop of flavor and color. Enjoy this cozy, homemade Egg Drop Soup with loved ones!
Egg Drop Soup Variations & Substitutions
Customize this delightful Egg Drop Soup to make it truly your own, with exciting flavors and textures to explore!
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Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a wholesome vegetarian soup. It brings a deliciously fresh taste that everyone can enjoy.
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Gluten-Free Twist: Swap soy sauce for gluten-free tamari to adhere to gluten-free diets while keeping the umami flavor that makes this soup so comforting.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture. It elevates the soup’s creaminess while adding a hint of sweetness!
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Protein Boost: Add cooked shrimp or tofu for a protein-packed meal. These options not only enhance the dish but also add delightful textures that complement the silky egg ribbons.
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Veggie Lovers: Toss in small diced vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a nutritious boost. Feel free to use veggies you have on hand; this soup is perfect for clean-outs!
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Herb Infusion: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving for a vibrant flavor kick. Fresh herbs can brighten the entire dish!
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Spicy Kick: If you crave heat, include a few drops of chili oil or sriracha. This simple addition turns your comforting soup into a fiery favorite without overpowering the classic flavors.
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Rich Flavor Base: For that extra depth, sauté some minced ginger or garlic in the sesame oil before adding the broth. It will fill your kitchen with inviting aromas and add layers of flavor.
With these variations, your Egg Drop Soup experience can be unique every time! For more inspiration, check out this Simple Stir-Fried Greens recipe that pairs wonderfully with your soup for a complete meal.
What to Serve with Quick & Easy Egg Drop Soup
Elevate your homemade meal experience by pairing your soup with delightful sides that bring a burst of flavor and texture.
- Steamed Dumplings: Soft and savory, these little pockets of goodness complement the broth beautifully while providing satisfying bites of protein.
- Stir-Fried Greens: Quick-cooked bok choy or spinach add a vibrant crunch, balancing the silky warmth of the Egg Drop Soup with freshness and color.
- Sesame Noodles: Chilled or warm, these nutty noodles are a delightful contrast, creating a hearty meal that echoes the Asian flavors of your soup.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights add texture and a pop of flavor, making every spoonful of your soup a delightful experience.
- Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing salad brightens the meal, offering a crisp finish that cleanses the palate before each mouthwatering spoonful.
- Hot Green Tea: This soothing drink harmonizes with the flavors of the soup while adding an element of warmth, perfect for a cozy dinner setting.
With these scrumptious pairings, your Quick & Easy Egg Drop Soup takes center stage, creating a satisfying and complete dining experience.
Expert Tips for Perfect Egg Drop Soup
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Stir Constantly: When adding the cornstarch mixture, stir continuously to prevent clumping. This ensures a smooth texture in your Egg Drop Soup.
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Pour Slowly: To create beautiful egg ribbons, pour the beaten eggs in a thin stream while stirring gently. This prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly and turning rubbery.
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Choose Quality Broth: For the best flavor, use a good quality low-sodium chicken broth or homemade stock. It makes a noticeable difference in your Egg Drop Soup.
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Don’t Overcook: Allow the soup to sit briefly after removing from heat. This ensures the eggs are tender without becoming overcooked.
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Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to boost nutrition by adding diced vegetables or proteins, like shredded chicken or tofu, to make your Egg Drop Soup heartier.
Make Ahead Options
These Quick & Easy Egg Drop Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can mix the cornstarch with a small amount of chicken broth and refrigerate the mixture for up to 24 hours in advance, which will save you precious time when you’re ready to cook. Additionally, beat the eggs and store them in a separate container in the fridge until you’re ready to add them to the soup. When it’s time to serve, simply bring the broth to a boil, add the cornstarch mixture, and slowly pour in the eggs while stirring. This way, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade Egg Drop Soup that tastes just as delicious as fresh-made, with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Egg Drop Soup
Fridge: Store your leftover Egg Drop Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, to regain its silky texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, cool the soup completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, do so over low heat to avoid overcooking the eggs, which can toughen them. Stir gently until heated through.
Flavor Refresh: After reheating, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary—adding a dash of soy sauce or fresh scallions can help revive the flavors of your Egg Drop Soup.
Egg Drop Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken broth should I use for Egg Drop Soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using low-sodium chicken broth as it forms the flavorful base for this soup. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, which will still give you a delicious taste.
How do I store leftover Egg Drop Soup?
Very simply! Store your leftover Egg Drop Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to help regain that lovely silky texture.
Can I freeze Egg Drop Soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze, cool the soup completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container or silicone bags and seal tightly. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently, keeping the heat low to prevent the eggs from toughening.
What if the eggs clump together in the soup?
No worries! To avoid clumping, make sure you pour the beaten eggs in a thin stream while gently stirring the broth. If it does clump, simply use a whisk to break it up gently until it’s incorporated into the soup. Remember to keep the heat low when adding the eggs—the perfect ribbons of egg are worth the care!
Can I add vegetables or protein to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding small diced vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition. For a protein boost, cooked shredded chicken or tofu works wonderfully. Just add them in when you’re combining the seasonings, so everything blends beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, it can be! This Egg Drop Soup can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce. It’s already low-sodium, but you can adjust the salt as needed. Just be sure to check for any allergies with ingredients like eggs or sesame oil, and always choose alternatives that cater to your dietary needs.
Comforting Egg Drop Soup Ready in Just 10 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk 1/4 cup of chicken broth with cornstarch until dissolved.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the remaining chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat, stir in sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds.
- Slowly add the cornstarch mixture to the broth while whisking. Cook until thickened, about 1 minute.
- Lower the heat and gently pour in the beaten eggs in a thin stream while stirring.
- Let the soup sit for 1 minute off heat to finish cooking the eggs.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, then garnish with sliced scallions and serve hot.
