Imagine a chilly evening when you crave something warm and comforting. A steaming bowl of homemade egg drop soup is just what you need. The silky strands of beaten eggs float in rich, flavorful broth.
This classic recipe is more than just food. It’s a warm hug in every spoonful. Making it yourself lets you add your own special touches. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make a delicious bowl of homemade egg drop soup in under 40 minutes. It’s perfect for any gathering.
Ready to start a cooking tradition that brings comfort and joy? Let’s explore this flavorful journey together!
Table of contents
- Introduction to Egg Drop Soup
- What Are the Ingredients for Egg Drop Soup?
- Is Egg Drop Soup Healthy?
- How to Make an Authentic Egg Drop Soup Recipe
- Why is Restaurant Egg Drop Soup So Yellow?
- What Do Chinese Restaurants Use to Thicken Egg Drop Soup?
- Variations of Egg Drop Soup
- Quick Cooking Tips for Egg Drop Soup
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Introduction to Egg Drop Soup
Egg drop soup is a beloved dish, often called “egg flower soup.” It has a clear broth with delicate egg strands. The base is chicken broth, seasoned with soy sauce and fresh ginger. It’s often topped with green onions.
This soup’s history starts in the Canton region of China. It became popular there and later in American Chinese cuisine. Now, it’s a go-to for warmth and comfort.
The soup’s flavors and simple ingredients make it a hit worldwide. It’s easy to make, making it a favorite for family meals and gatherings.
What Are the Ingredients for Egg Drop Soup?
Making a tasty bowl of egg drop soup starts with picking the right egg drop soup ingredients. This simple recipe needs a few key items to taste and feel great. You’ll need:
- Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups)
- Fresh eggs (2-3 large eggs)
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons for thickening)
- Ground ginger (½ teaspoon)
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1 tablespoon)
- Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon)
- Sliced green onions for garnish (½ cup)
You can also add some extra ingredients to make your soup even better. Try:
- Ground pork (½ pound for added protein)
- Fresh ginger (1-inch piece, finely grated)
- Sesame oil (½ teaspoon)
- Rice vinegar (1 teaspoon to add depth)
- Chopped vegetables (e.g., mushrooms or bok choy for richness)
This simple egg drop soup recipe makes a warm, tasty dish in just 35 minutes. Using homemade broth will make it even better.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Fresh eggs | 2-3 large |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground ginger | ½ teaspoon |
| Low-sodium soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Sliced green onions | ½ cup |
| Optional: Ground pork | ½ pound |
| Optional: Sesame oil | ½ teaspoon |
Is Egg Drop Soup Healthy?
You might ask, is egg drop soup healthy? This dish is packed with nutrients, making it a great choice. It has about 71 calories per serving. This lets you enjoy a tasty meal without too many calories.
Protein is a big plus in egg drop soup. Each serving has about 3.5 grams of protein from the eggs. It also has very little carbs, around 5 grams, which is good for a low-carb diet.
The soup is made with low-sodium chicken broth. This adds flavor without too much salt. Homemade versions have about 177 mg of sodium per 1.5-cup serving. Using fresh ingredients helps you get more nutrients, making egg drop soup nutrition better for a balanced diet.
Here’s a breakdown of typical nutritional values for a serving of egg drop soup:
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 71 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Protein | 3.5 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0.4 g |
You can make the soup even healthier by adding veggies or proteins like shrimp or chicken. This makes it not only tasty but also nutritious. Egg drop soup is a great choice for a light meal or a comforting starter.
How to Make an Authentic Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Making an egg drop soup recipe that’s authentic is easy, whether you’re new to cooking or have experience. With fresh ingredients and the right techniques, you can make a soup that tastes just like your favorite restaurant’s.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make your egg drop soup:
- Start by heating 6 cups of chicken stock in a pot. Use homemade or low-sodium broth for better flavor.
- Mix 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water in a bowl. Slowly add this to the broth to thicken it.
- Pour in 6 lightly beaten eggs while stirring the soup gently. This will create either big “egg flowers” or small swirls, depending on how fast you stir.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste), 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper, and 1 teaspoon of turmeric for color if you like.
- Finish by garnishing with 3 chopped scallions before serving.
Tips for the Best Flavor
To make your egg drop soup even better, try these tips:
- Add fresh ginger to warm up and deepen the broth’s flavor.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the flavor rich without too much salt.
- Make your soup your own by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bok choy for extra nutrition and taste.
- Play with the cornstarch amount to get the soup just right, whether thick or thin.
Why is Restaurant Egg Drop Soup So Yellow?
Many people wonder why restaurant egg drop soup is so yellow. The color comes from certain techniques and ingredients. Restaurants often use special egg products with added colors for a bright look.
Using more egg yolks is another reason for the soup’s yellow color. Yolks make the soup richer and more flavorful. Some chefs also add turmeric, which is bright yellow and adds to the taste.
The yellow color of the soup doesn’t change its taste. The main goal is to make a dish that’s both tasty and comforting. Knowing how it’s made helps us appreciate the effort that goes into it.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Egg Yolk | Provides color and richness |
| Turmeric | Adds vibrant color and slight flavor enhancement |
| Commercial Egg Products | Ensures consistency and appealing color |
What Do Chinese Restaurants Use to Thicken Egg Drop Soup?
In Chinese cooking, getting the right texture in egg drop soup is key. Restaurants often use a cornstarch slurry to do this. This mix of cornstarch and cold water adds a smooth feel when added to hot broth. The usual mix is 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water.
Potato starch is another thickener used. It works like cornstarch, giving a silky texture. Both keep the soup light but rich.
Here’s a quick overview of how these thickening agents impact the soup:
| Thickening Agent | Measurement | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon with 3 tablespoons water | Smooth, velvety |
| Potato Starch | Equivalent to cornstarch | Silky, glossy |
To use these agents, stir the slurry into the broth until it thickens. Then, bring the soup to a boil. This method creates a texture that enhances the soup’s rich flavors.
Variations of Egg Drop Soup
Egg drop soup is very versatile. You can try many different versions to find your favorite. Adding extra ingredients can make the soup even better. Here are some ideas for new and exciting egg drop soup variations.
Adding Extra Ingredients
Think about adding some extra things to your egg drop soup. You could try:
- Mushrooms – add depth and umami
- Tofu – offers a protein boost and creaminess
- Carrots – contribute sweetness and a crunch
- Peas – enhance texture and nutritional value
These extra ingredients can give your egg drop soup a unique twist. It keeps the dish comforting but adds your personal touch.
Spicy and Innovative Twists
Want something bolder? Try adding spices or using different broths. For example, you could add:
- White pepper – provides a subtle heat
- Chili oil – for a fiery kick
Also, try using vegetable or seafood broth instead of chicken broth. These changes can make your soup exciting and fit different tastes.
Quick Cooking Tips for Egg Drop Soup
To get the best taste and texture in your egg drop soup, follow these tips. Start by getting all your ingredients ready before you begin. Use 1 liter of broth on the stove, as gentle heat keeps the soup smooth.
When it’s time to add the eggs, beat three large eggs. Slowly pour them into the broth while stirring constantly. This creates the soup’s signature egg ribbons. Cook for just one minute to avoid clumps.
Want a thicker soup? Adjust the cornstarch to get the right consistency. Use 5 to 15 grams per liter. For extra flavor, add 2 grams of grated ginger or veggies like corn or bok choy.
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. You can also add protein like shredded chicken, tofu, or seafood. This makes your soup more versatile and filling.
Here’s a quick table with the main ingredients and tips for your egg drop soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Broth | 1 L (4 cups) |
| Large Eggs | 3 |
| Cornstarch | 10 g (1 tbsp) |
| Water for Cornstarch Slurry | 30 ml (2 tbsp) |
| Soy Sauce | 10 ml (2 tsp) |
| Sesame Oil | 5 ml (1 tsp) |
| Salt | 2 g (½ tsp) |
| White Pepper | 1 g (¼ tsp) |
| Chopped Spring Onions | 10 g (2 tbsp) |
FAQ
Egg drop soup needs low-sodium chicken broth, cornstarch, ginger, soy sauce, and fresh eggs. You can add green onions, sesame oil, and white pepper for more taste.
Yes, egg drop soup is healthy. It has about 71 calories per serving. It’s full of protein from eggs and can be made low in carbs for a keto diet.
Chinese restaurants use cornstarch to thicken the soup. They mix cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry. Then, they add it to the hot broth.
The yellow color comes from commercial egg products. These may have coloring agents or starch. Restaurants also use more egg yolks or turmeric for color.
To make simple egg drop soup, start by heating chicken broth, soy sauce, and ginger. Mix cornstarch with cold water and add it to the broth. Stir in beaten eggs slowly for ribbons. Finish with green onions and sesame oil.
Try adding mushrooms, tofu, carrots, or peas for texture and taste. Spices like white pepper or chili oil can add a spicy kick. You can also use different broths for unique flavors.
Prepare all ingredients before starting. Keep the broth simmering before adding eggs. Stir constantly to get the right texture. Cooking on medium heat prevents clumps. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Conclusion
Homemade egg drop soup is more than just a simple dish. It adds a cozy touch to your meals. It’s ready in just 15 minutes and serves four. You only need a few things like chicken stock, eggs, and green onions.
This recipe is easy to make and can be changed up in many ways. You can add different ingredients or spice it up to your liking. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking to try something new.
This soup is not only tasty but also healthy and low in calories. It’s a favorite in many homes. You can make it the classic way or try a vegetarian version. It’s perfect for any time of year and can be kept for later.
Pair it with your favorite sides like spring rolls or fried rice for a complete meal. Egg drop soup is not just a quick fix for hunger. It’s a key part of your cooking collection, full of possibilities to please your taste buds.
So, grab your ingredients and start making this delicious homemade egg drop soup. Enjoy every spoonful of this warm, comforting dish!