Imagine a bowl of pure comfort that takes just 15 minutes to prepare - a velvety Chinese soup where delicate egg ribbons dance gracefully in a warm, savory broth. Egg Drop Soup isn't just a dish; it's a culinary art form that transforms simple ingredients into a soul-warming experience. Whether you're craving a quick lunch, a light starter, or a soothing remedy on a chilly day, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of traditional Chinese cuisine.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- Sesame oil for drizzling
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, pour the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Ensure the broth is hot but not boiling vigorously.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry. This will help thicken the soup and give it a silky texture.
- Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the broth slightly thickens.
- Season the broth with salt and white pepper to taste. White pepper is traditional in Chinese egg drop soup and provides a subtle, warm heat.
- Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and whisk them lightly. You want to break the yolks but not over-mix, which helps create those classic wispy egg strands.
- Remove the broth from heat and use a fork or chopsticks to create a gentle whirlpool motion in the soup while slowly drizzling the whisked eggs into the broth.
- The eggs will immediately cook and form delicate, ribbon-like strands as they hit the hot broth. Stop stirring once all eggs are incorporated.
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and drizzle a small amount of sesame oil on top for an authentic flavor and aroma.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls while the soup is hot and the egg strands are tender.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your broth is hot but not boiling when adding eggs to create those signature silky strands.
- Whisk Eggs Gently: Lightly beat eggs just to break yolks - over-mixing can make the texture less delicate.
- Create a Whirlpool: Use a fork or chopsticks to create a gentle swirling motion when adding eggs for beautiful, thin ribbons.
- Use White Pepper: For authentic flavor, choose white pepper over black pepper.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh eggs and high-quality chicken broth for the best taste.
- Serve Immediately: Egg Drop Soup is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking to maintain its perfect texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 90mg
