Easy & Authentic Egg Drop Soup: A Quick 10-Minute Comfort Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of **Egg Drop Soup** to soothe the soul, whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving a light, flavorful appetizer. This classic Asian soup, renowned for its delicate egg ribbons swirling in a savory broth, is surprisingly simple to make at home. Forget takeout – our recipe brings the authentic taste and comforting texture right to your kitchen in just 10 minutes!

This particular recipe was perfected during my time living in Japan, where I learned the secrets to its speedy preparation and delightful taste. It’s a versatile dish that can serve as a gentle starter or a wholesome, gluten-free meal on its own. Get ready to whisk up a batch of this wonderfully easy and satisfying soup!

Egg Drop Soup

I learned this quick and easy egg drop soup recipe when I was living in Japan. It’s good for a light appetizer or a comfort food when you have a cold.

Author:
Mary Ann

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Prep Time
5 mins

Cook Time
5 mins

Total Time
10 mins

Course
Soup

Cuisine
Asian, Gluten-free

Servings
3

Calories
55 per serving

Ingredients

3 C. chicken broth
1 green onion with top, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
dash of pepper
2 eggs, slightly beaten

Instructions

Bring chicken broth to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Once boiling, add the salt and a dash of pepper, stirring to combine.
While the broth is heating, crack two eggs into a small bowl and beat them lightly with a fork or whisk. Stir in the chopped green onions with the beaten eggs.
Slowly pour the egg and onion mixture into the vigorously boiling broth in a thin stream. As you pour, continuously stir the broth with a fork or chopsticks in one direction. This motion will create beautiful, delicate ribbons of cooked egg. Continue stirring until the egg is fully cooked, which should only take about 30 seconds to a minute. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition per serving

Calories: 55 cal

Carbohydrates: 2 g

Protein: 5 g

Fat: 3 g

Sodium: 1683 mg

Fiber: 1 g

Sugar: 1 g

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The Enduring Charm of Classic Egg Drop Soup

Egg Drop Soup, or “Danhuatang” (蛋花汤) in Mandarin, is a staple in Chinese cuisine and cherished across many Asian cultures. Its origins are humble, rooted in the idea of creating a delicious and nourishing meal with simple, readily available ingredients. The beauty of this soup lies in its elegant simplicity – a clear, savory broth, often chicken-based, brought to life with delicate wisps of beaten egg. These “egg flowers” are created by slowly drizzling beaten eggs into hot liquid, forming the characteristic silky strands that give the soup its name.

Beyond its culinary appeal, Egg Drop Soup holds a special place as a comfort food. It’s often served to those feeling under the weather, thanks to its easily digestible nature and warming properties. Its mild yet satisfying flavor makes it a perfect starter to a larger meal or a light, wholesome lunch. This adaptability and universal appeal have cemented its place as a beloved dish worldwide.

Why You’ll Adore This Quick & Easy Egg Drop Soup Recipe

Incredibly Fast: From prep to bowl, this soup is ready in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, comforting fix.
Effortlessly Simple: With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this recipe.
Light & Healthy: At only 55 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free pleasure that won’t weigh you down. It’s also naturally gluten-free!
Ultimate Comfort Food: Warm, savory, and soothing, it’s the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a boost when you’re feeling unwell.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a light appetizer, a wholesome snack, or customize it with your favorite additions for a more substantial meal.

Essential Tips for Perfect Egg Drop Soup Every Time

While this recipe is simple, a few key techniques can elevate your Egg Drop Soup from good to absolutely glorious:

Choosing the Right Broth

The foundation of any great soup is its broth. For an authentic and deeply flavorful Egg Drop Soup, a good quality chicken broth is paramount. If you have homemade chicken broth, this is the time to use it! Otherwise, opt for a low-sodium, high-quality store-bought chicken broth or chicken stock. Vegetable broth can also be used for a vegetarian version, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Achieving Silky Egg Ribbons

The signature “egg ribbons” are what make egg drop soup so distinctive. To get them perfectly silky and delicate:

Beat Eggs Lightly: Don’t overbeat the eggs into a frothy mess. Just a gentle whisk until the yolk and white are combined is enough. Adding the chopped green onions at this stage helps distribute them evenly.
Boiling Broth is Key: Ensure your broth is at a vigorous, rolling boil before you start adding the eggs. This high heat will instantly set the egg, preventing it from sinking to the bottom or turning into scrambled bits.
Slow and Steady Drizzle: Pour the beaten egg mixture into the boiling broth in a thin, continuous stream. A small measuring cup with a spout or even just pouring slowly off a fork can help control the flow.
Continuous Stirring: As you pour, continuously stir the broth in a circular motion with a fork or chopsticks. This motion helps break up the egg stream into delicate ribbons rather than larger clumps. Stirring for about 30 seconds after adding the eggs is usually sufficient for them to cook through.

Seasoning to Taste

Our recipe includes salt and pepper, but feel free to adjust these to your preference. Remember that chicken broth can vary greatly in sodium content. Taste your broth before adding salt and adjust as needed. A tiny splash of soy sauce or a few drops of sesame oil stirred in at the very end can also add an extra layer of authentic Asian flavor.

Customizing Your Egg Drop Soup: Variations & Add-ins

While delicious in its purest form, Egg Drop Soup is also an excellent canvas for customization. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Vegetable Boosts

Enhance the nutritional value and texture by adding quick-cooking vegetables. Common additions include:

**Mushrooms:** Sliced shiitake or button mushrooms add an earthy depth.
**Spinach or Bok Choy:** Stir in fresh greens at the very end for a healthy wilt.
**Carrots or Peas:** Finely diced carrots or a handful of frozen peas can add color and sweetness.
**Corn:** Sweet corn kernels complement the savory broth beautifully.

Protein Power

Turn this light soup into a more fulfilling meal with added protein:

**Shredded Chicken:** Leftover cooked chicken can be shredded and added to the broth.
**Tofu:** Small cubes of silken or firm tofu absorb the broth’s flavor and add a soft texture.
**Shrimp:** Small cooked shrimp can be added at the end for a seafood twist.

Spice It Up

For those who prefer a little heat:

**White Pepper:** A dash of white pepper is traditional and adds a subtle kick.
**Red Pepper Flakes:** A pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking will infuse heat.
**Chili Oil:** Drizzle a few drops of chili oil over your bowl before serving.

Alternative Garnishes

Beyond green onions, consider these garnishes:

**Toasted Sesame Seeds:** Add a nutty crunch.
**Cilantro:** Fresh chopped cilantro for a bright, herbaceous note.
**Crispy Fried Onions/Shallots:** For extra texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Your Homemade Egg Drop Soup

This versatile soup can be enjoyed in many ways:

As an Appetizer: Serve small bowls before a larger Asian-inspired meal, such as stir-fries, noodle dishes, or rice preparations.
Light Lunch or Dinner: Enjoy a larger portion on its own, especially if you’ve added extra vegetables or protein. It’s a fantastic alternative to heavier meals.
Pair with Sides: Serve alongside spring rolls, dumplings, or a simple side salad for a more complete meal.
Comforting Treat: Perfect for a rainy day, a quick pick-me-up, or when you need something gentle on the stomach.

Health Benefits of Egg Drop Soup

Beyond its delicious taste, Egg Drop Soup offers several health advantages, especially when prepared with fresh ingredients:

Rich in Protein: Eggs are a complete protein source, providing essential amino acids crucial for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.
Low in Calories: As seen in the nutrition facts, this soup is remarkably low in calories, making it an excellent choice for weight management.
Gluten-Free: Naturally free of gluten (ensure your chicken broth is also GF-certified), it’s suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Hydrating: The broth base helps with hydration, which is particularly beneficial when you’re feeling unwell.
Nutrient-Dense: With the addition of green onions and potential optional vegetables, the soup provides vitamins and minerals.

Conclusion

This quick and easy Egg Drop Soup recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly comforting and delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen beginner, you’ll find joy in preparing this classic Asian dish. It’s not just a soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, ready to nourish and delight in mere minutes. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the timeless appeal of homemade Egg Drop Soup!