Egg Drop Soup

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Few dishes bring comfort with as much simplicity and warmth as a steaming bowl of Egg Drop Soup. Silky threads of whisked egg swirl through a savory, golden broth, creating a beautiful pattern and a soothing bite in every spoonful. Whether you’re battling a cold or just craving something nourishing and quick, this classic Chinese-inspired soup comes together in minutes with pantry-friendly ingredients.

It’s the kind of soup that feels like a hug from the inside out. Delicately seasoned yet deeply flavorful, Egg Drop Soup is beloved for its light texture and customizable base. You can enjoy it plain, or build on it with veggies, shredded chicken, or a drizzle of sesame oil for added richness.

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What Kind of Broth Should I Use for Egg Drop Soup?

The foundation of any great Egg Drop Soup is a rich, flavorful broth. Chicken broth is traditional and provides that familiar depth, but you can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. Opt for low-sodium broth so you have control over seasoning, and make sure it’s brought to a gentle simmer before adding the egg.

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Ingredients for the Egg Drop Soup

Chicken broth (or vegetable broth) – This forms the savory base of the soup. Use good-quality broth for the best flavor.

Eggs – The star of the show. Beaten and poured in a thin stream, they form the signature ribbons as they cook.

Cornstarch – Mixed with a bit of water, it gives the soup a subtle thickness that makes it silky, not watery.

Soy sauce – For umami depth and seasoning.

White pepper – Milder than black pepper, it gives a subtle background heat that complements the broth.

Green onions (scallions) – Thinly sliced and sprinkled on top, they bring freshness and a bit of crunch.

Sesame oil (optional) – A drizzle at the end gives the soup a warm, nutty aroma.

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How To Make the Egg Drop Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before turning on the heat, have everything ready. Beat the eggs in a small bowl and set aside. In another bowl, mix the cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Keep your broth, soy sauce, and seasonings measured out and close at hand.

Step 2: Simmer the Broth

In a medium saucepan, bring your chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle boil. Stir in the soy sauce, white pepper, and cornstarch slurry. Whisk to combine and let the broth simmer for 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Create the Egg Ribbons

Now comes the magic! Turn the heat down to low and stir the broth in one direction to create a slow whirlpool. While stirring, gently pour in the beaten eggs in a thin, steady stream. The swirling motion will help form those beautiful, delicate egg ribbons.

Step 4: Finish with Flavor

Remove the pot from the heat and give it one final gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For extra flavor, add a few drops of sesame oil. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly sliced green onions.

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How to Serve and Store Egg Drop Soup

Egg Drop Soup is best enjoyed hot and fresh, straight from the pot. Serve it as a light appetizer or pair it with stir-fried vegetables, dumplings, or fried rice for a cozy, complete meal. For a fancier touch, add cooked shrimp, tofu cubes, or a handful of baby spinach right before serving.

If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the egg texture. Avoid boiling, as it can cause the eggs to toughen or break apart.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of eggs should I use?

Use fresh large eggs, ideally at room temperature. This helps them blend smoothly into the broth without clumping.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any animal-based garnishes. It’s just as flavorful.

How do I keep the eggs from clumping?

Pour the eggs slowly in a thin stream while stirring the soup in one direction. This helps them cook instantly into ribbons instead of forming lumps.

Can I freeze Egg Drop Soup?

It’s not ideal to freeze, as the texture of the eggs can change dramatically after thawing. Fresh or refrigerated for a couple of days is best.

What can I add for more flavor?

Try grated ginger, garlic, or a touch of chili oil. A splash of rice vinegar can also add brightness.

Is this soup gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, then yes, this soup can be gluten-free.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

If this Egg Drop Soup warmed your soul, you might enjoy these other cozy favorites:

• Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup for a cheesy, comforting twist on Italian classics.
• Chicken Pot Pie Soup when you want that creamy, savory goodness in a spoon.
• Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup for something bold and spice-forward.
• Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup for a hearty bowl that eats like a meal.
• Decadent Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup for rich layers of flavor in every spoonful.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it on chilly days.

And if you made it, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you add extra veggies? A splash of chili oil? Drop a comment and let me know how you personalized it.

Looking for more cozy comfort food? Follow my daily recipe shares on Pinterest at Life with Jam.

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