Egg drop soup is a popular Chinese dish known for its simplicity, delicate texture, and comforting warmth. Often served as an appetizer or light meal, this soup features silky ribbons of egg swirled into a savory, flavorful broth. The dish is typically made with chicken or vegetable stock, and it is seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil, creating a balance of savory and aromatic flavors. The key to its appeal lies in the smooth, velvety texture of the egg, which is gently poured into the hot broth, forming soft, silky strands.
The process of making egg drop soup is quick and easy, requiring just a few ingredients. The broth is brought to a boil, and then eggs are slowly poured in while stirring, creating the characteristic delicate egg ribbons. Sometimes, additional ingredients like green onions, tofu, or mushrooms are added to enhance the soup’s depth and texture. For a bit of heat, a dash of white pepper or chili oil may be added, though the traditional version is mild and soothing.
Egg drop soup is often enjoyed on its own as a light meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of Chinese dishes, such as dumplings, spring rolls, or fried rice. The soup’s comforting warmth makes it an ideal choice during cold weather, or as a soothing start to a larger Chinese meal.
What makes egg drop soup particularly special is its ability to deliver big flavors with minimal effort. It’s a dish that’s both simple and satisfying, perfect for those looking for a quick, delicious, and light meal. And extremely easy to make and prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 eggs beaten
- 4 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger fresh
- 2 tablespoons chopped scallions for garnish
- to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the grated ginger and salt into the boiling broth, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Slowly stir in the cornstarch mixture, and simmer for another minute until slightly thickened.
- Gradually pour the beaten eggs into the simmering soup while stirring gently to create egg ribbons.
- Remove from heat and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with chopped scallions before serving.
Nutrition
This soup is super easy to make, and so delish! The egg ribbons are perfect. Love it!
I tried it too, such a quick dish! But I don’t think it tastes that great. Maybe I messed something up??
I love egg drop soup! Yours looks so yummy, thank you for sharing the recipe! Can’t wait to make it!
I tried this recipe and my kids loved it! Definitely a keeper.
I dunno, it was fine but tasted kinda bland. I think it needs like more spices or something.
I totally agree! A little more seasoning can really bring out the flavors!
Bland? I thought it was alright. Maybe it’s just not for everyone. 🤷♂️
Just made this for dinner and my kids loved it! I added some tofu too, yum!
Egg drop soup? Sounds kinda boring tbh. What’s the deal with just eggs and broth?
Awesome! Tofu sounds like a great addition! I’ll have to try that next time.
It’s ok, but it needed more flavor like some soy sauce. Kinda bland.
I’m skeptical about cornstarch + broth in a soup like this… but wow, it actually helps. I definitely wouldn’t skip the cornstarch step.
This is really simple and easy to make! My kids loved it.
This soup is super easy to make and tastes amazing! I added some tofu and it worked great!
Simple and quick! Put some soy sauce on top, excellent!
Soy sauce? Really? That sounds weird. I thought it was supposed to be a light soup!
I don’t understand why it’s called egg drop soup. It’s not dropping eggs, it’s more like adding them in. Just weird.
Disappointing. I was expecting more, but it was just okay.
I’m sorry to hear that! Egg drop soup can be really simple, but have you tried adding more spices or ingredients? Sometimes a little tweak can make a huge difference!
Quick and delicious! Perfect for a sick day.
Totally agree! It’s super easy and comforting for those days when you’re feeling under the weather. I love it!
I don’t know, my soup turned out all eggy. Is it supposed to be like that? I thought it was gonna be more broth-y.
This has too much ginger for me. I like it more plain. Next time I’ll just skip that.
I don’t get the hype. It’s just hot water with eggs. Where’s the beef?
Pretty good, but I think my broth wasn’t boiling enough at the start because the egg ribbons weren’t as pretty. Still tasted great though. Next time I’ll be more patient with the simmer.
Too many eggs! Next time I’ll only use 1 egg, it was a bit too eggy for me.
Super easy. Also I accidently used powdered ginger instead of grated fresh, but it was fine. My kid ate it without complaining, so win.
Simple and quick, just like my grandma used to make. Thumbs up from me!
I followed the recipe exactly but it turned out bland. Needs more flavor.
Maybe try adding some soy sauce or sesame oil next time? Those can really boost the flavor!
I think I messed up the cornstarch part. It didn’t thicken at all!
Don’t worry! Cornstarch can be tricky sometimes. Maybe it didn’t mix well? Next time stir it in slowly while the broth is boiling.
Used vegetable broth instead of chicken. Tasted great! Very comforting.
Just okay. I think it needed some more flavor. Added some soy sauce but still felt bland. 3 stars.
Soy sauce? No way! That’s not traditional. This soup is perfect as is, you just gotta embrace the simple flavors!
I totally agree! I found it a bit bland too. Maybe try adding some garlic next time?
So so so good! I can eat this every day! My grandma used to make it.
It was just okay. Needed more flavor. My soup ended up pretty bland. Maybe more spices next time?
I totally feel you! I added some garlic and chili flakes, and it turned out way better. Give it a try next time!
What do you mean by bland? I thought it was perfect! Maybe try adding soy sauce?
This is a great “use what you have” recipe. I used vegetable broth once and it was still decent, though obviously not the same. The egg part is the star.
Too simple for my taste, I added some soy sauce and it was much better!
The scallions really make a difference! I used green onions instead and it still turned out great.
Yeah, green onions are a good substitute! Love how easy this soup is. 😊
Egg drop soup? More like bland water soup! I don’t get the hype.
I used beef broth instead of chicken… kinda worst decision ever!!
Beef broth?! That sounds weird… like, why would you even try that? Just stick to the recipe!
I’ve done that too! It’s not the same, huh? Chicken broth is key. Better luck next time!
Uhh, not sure about this one. The eggs came out weird for me. I must’ve done something wrong?