10-Minute Egg Drop Soup
This 10-Minute Egg Drop Soup is a quick, comforting, and nourishing dish, perfect for a light meal or when you need something easy to digest. Its delicate flavors and silky egg ribbons make it a soothing choice for any time.
For 2 servings
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a smooth slurry. Set aside. In another bowl, lightly beat the two eggs until the yolk and white are just combined, without over-whipping.
Pour the chicken broth into a medium saucepan. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing it to infuse for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the soy sauce and white pepper. Taste the broth and add a pinch of salt if needed, keeping in mind that soy sauce is already salty.
Give the cornstarch slurry a quick re-stir, then slowly pour it into the simmering broth while continuously stirring. Continue to stir until the broth thickens slightly, about 30-60 seconds. It should be just thick enough to lightly coat the back of a spoon.
Reduce the heat to low to maintain a very gentle simmer. While stirring the broth in a continuous, slow circular motion with a spoon or whisk, slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the pot in a thin stream. The eggs will cook instantly, forming delicate ribbons.
Once all the egg is added, stir gently for another 15-30 seconds to ensure the egg is fully cooked. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls. Garnish each bowl with the sliced green parts of the scallions and a small drizzle of toasted sesame oil.
Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your quick and comforting egg drop soup!
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For perfect egg ribbons, ensure your broth is at a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil) and stir continuously in one direction while slowly drizzling the egg. A fork or chopsticks can help create a very thin stream.
- 2The quality of your broth significantly impacts the soup's flavor. Use a good quality store-bought broth or homemade chicken stock for the best results.
- 3Always make a cornstarch slurry with cold water before adding it to hot liquid to prevent lumps. Stir it again right before adding, as cornstarch can settle quickly.
- 4Adjust the thickness to your preference: for a thinner soup, use less cornstarch; for a thicker soup, you can add another ½ teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian Version
Substitute chicken broth with a good quality vegetable broth and ensure your soy sauce is vegetarian-friendly. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a few drops of chili oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth along with the soy sauce for a delightful spicy variation.
Added Veggies/ProteinAdded Veggies/Protein
Stir in a handful of fresh spinach, thinly sliced mushrooms, or a few cubes of silken tofu during the last minute of simmering for extra nutrients and texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Hydrating & Electrolyte-Rich
The broth base provides essential hydration and can help replenish electrolytes, making it ideal for recovery or when feeling under the weather.
Good Source of Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and overall body function, in an easily digestible form.
Easy on Digestion
With its light texture and simple ingredients, this soup is gentle on the digestive system, making it a perfect choice for those with sensitive stomachs or recovering from illness.
Frequently asked questions
This usually happens if the broth isn't stirring consistently or if the egg is poured in too quickly. Ensure a continuous, slow circular motion of the broth while drizzling the egg in a very thin stream.
