Egg Drop Soup

Whip up this simple Egg Drop Soup in just 15 minutes — it might even taste better than the one from your go-to Chinese spot! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The delicate ribbons of egg and the warmth of chicken broth make this soup comforting and satisfying. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal on its own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Egg Drop Soup can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Flavorful Ingredients: With garlic powder and ground ginger, each spoonful bursts with delightful flavors.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra vegetables or proteins to make it your own!
• Low-Calorie Option: At only 86 calories per serving, it’s a great choice for those watching their intake.
• Perfectly Satisfying: The combination of eggs and broth creates a filling yet light soup that warms you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Soup pot or saucepan
• Wire mesh sieve
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Why These Tools Matter

• Soup pot or saucepan: A good pot allows even heating for consistent cooking results.
• Wire mesh sieve: Straining the eggs through this helps achieve delicate ribbons in your soup.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that cornstarch mixes well with broth for the perfect texture.

Ingredients

Whip up this simple Egg Drop Soup in just 15 minutes — it might even taste better than the one from your go-to Chinese spot!

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ¼ cup chopped green onions (plus more for garnish)
• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth (divided)

For Thickening and Flavor

• 2 to 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger powder

For the Egg Mixture

• 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Red pepper flakes (for garnish)

How to Make Egg Drop Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a soup pot or saucepan set over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Add chopped green onions to the hot oil and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. Then, add 4 cups of chicken broth to the pot and stir well.

Step 3: Prepare Cornstarch Slurry

In a mixing bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Whisk until well incorporated. If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding another tablespoon of cornstarch.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

Pour the cornstarch slurry into the soup while whisking continuously until fully combined.

Step 5: Add Flavorings

Whisk in the garlic powder and ground ginger to enhance the taste profile.

Step 6: Simmer

Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a steady simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Strain Eggs

Reduce heat to low and place a wire mesh sieve over the soup pot. Slowly strain the beaten eggs through the sieve into the pan. Allow them to cook for about 1 minute.

Step 8: Final Seasoning

Remove from heat and stir in salt and pepper. Taste for seasoning adjustments as necessary.

Step 9: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with additional chopped green onions and red pepper flakes before serving warm. Enjoy your homemade Egg Drop Soup!

How to Serve Egg Drop Soup

Egg Drop Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, crunchy texture.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat and color.
• Cilantro: If you enjoy herbs, fresh cilantro can add a burst of flavor.

Pair with Rice

• Steamed White Rice: Serve alongside steamed white rice to soak up the delicious broth.
• Fried Rice: A side of fried rice complements the soup while adding more texture and flavors.

Make it a Meal

• Protein Addition: Toss in some cooked chicken or tofu for extra protein and heartiness.
• Vegetable Boost: Include steamed or sautéed vegetables like bok choy or carrots to enhance nutrition.

How to Perfect Egg Drop Soup

To make the best Egg Drop Soup, follow these helpful tips that ensure rich flavor and perfect consistency.

• Bold Seasoning: Adjust spices according to your taste. Use garlic powder and ground ginger for depth.
• Smooth Egg Flow: Slowly whisk the eggs into the hot broth for delicate ribbons instead of clumps.
• Use Low Sodium Broth: For a healthier version, opt for low sodium chicken broth and adjust salt accordingly.
• Thickening Agent: Adjust cornstarch based on desired thickness; more cornstarch will create a heartier soup.

Best Side Dishes for Egg Drop Soup

Pairing your Egg Drop Soup with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables add crunch and contrast to the soup’s warmth.
2. Dumplings: Steamed dumplings are perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
3. Sesame Noodles: Chilled sesame noodles provide a refreshing balance with their nutty flavor.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of colorful stir-fried veggies adds both nutrition and vibrancy to your meal.
5. Chicken Salad: A light chicken salad offers protein without overwhelming the palate.
6. Quinoa Bowl: A quinoa bowl with vegetables can serve as a hearty side that complements the soup nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Egg Drop Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Incorrect Broth Ratio: Too much or too little broth can change the soup’s texture. Stick to the recipe for balanced flavor.
• Skipping the Cornstarch Slurry: This is crucial for thickening the soup. Always mix cornstarch with broth first before adding it to the pot.
• Adding Eggs Too Quickly: Pouring in the eggs too fast can cause clumps. Strain them slowly through a sieve for silky results.
• Overcooking the Eggs: Cooking the eggs for too long will make them rubbery. Stir gently and remove from heat after a minute.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting before serving is essential. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors according to your preference.

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing Egg Drop Soup

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Keep in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Egg Drop Soup

• • Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• • Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• • Stovetop: In a saucepan over low heat, stir frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Egg Drop Soup?

Egg Drop Soup is a classic Chinese dish made by swirling beaten eggs into hot broth, creating delicate ribbons of egg throughout.

How do I customize Egg Drop Soup?

You can customize Egg Drop Soup by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or proteins such as chicken or tofu.

Can I make Egg Drop Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add extra veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.

Is Egg Drop Soup healthy?

Egg Drop Soup is low in calories and provides protein from eggs while being hydrating due to its broth base.

What can I serve with Egg Drop Soup?

Egg Drop Soup pairs well with rice dishes, dumplings, or as an appetizer before a main course.

Conclusion

This quick and easy Egg Drop Soup recipe is perfect for any day of the week. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting bowl that rivals takeout. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for extra flavor and nutrition!