Egg Drop Soup

Chinese · Starter · Easy

Egg Drop Soup

Total
15 min
Prep
5 min
Serves
3
Calories
95
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Fine ribbons of egg float through a lightly thickened broth with mushrooms, peas and scallions. Sesame oil adds a warm, toasted finish.

A gentle swirl shapes the egg ribbons in Egg Drop Soup. Cornstarch gives the broth just enough body to suspend them, so the eggs cook into soft strands rather than disappearing into a thin liquid.

Beat the eggs until the whites and yolks are fully combined. Pour in a fine stream after the broth is lightly thickened, then pause before stirring again; vigorous whisking breaks the ribbons into tiny pieces.

Method

  1. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a saucepan. Add the salt, sugar, white pepper, peas and mushrooms. Simmer over medium heat for until the vegetables soften.

  2. Mix the cornstarch with the water and stir into the simmering broth. Cook for until slightly glossy and thickened.

  3. Lower the heat and stir the broth slowly in one direction. Pour the beaten eggs in a thin stream, stop stirring briefly, then cook for until the ribbons are opaque and fully set.

  4. Stir in the sesame oil and scallions gently. Heat for and ladle into bowls.

Forkue tips

  • For broader ribbons, pour slightly faster and stir less; a very fine stream makes delicate strands.

Storing and reheating

Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Warm gently in a saucepan without a hard boil, which can toughen the egg ribbons. Freezing changes the texture of the eggs.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

95Calories
7gProtein
7gCarbs
5gFat

Egg Drop Soup: FAQ

Can I use vegetable broth?

Yes. It makes the soup vegetarian; choose a light broth so its flavor does not overpower the egg and sesame.

Why is the soup cloudy?

The egg was likely stirred too vigorously or poured into broth that was not hot enough to set it quickly.

How do I store and reheat Egg Drop Soup?

Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Warm gently in a saucepan without a hard boil, which can toughen the egg ribbons. Freezing changes the texture of the eggs.

How long does Egg Drop Soup take?

About 15 min in total: 5 min prep and 10 min cooking.

What do I need to make Egg Drop Soup?

The key ingredients are chicken broth, eggs, white pepper, sesame oil, peas and mushrooms, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Egg Drop Soup?

For broader ribbons, pour slightly faster and stir less; a very fine stream makes delicate strands.