Quick Egg Drop Soup
A light, hydrating, and savory soup that comes together in minutes, perfect for a comforting lunch. The egg whites are cooked instantly in the hot broth, creating delicate protein ribbons.
For 3 servings
In a small bowl, lightly whisk the egg whites until just frothy. In another small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a smooth slurry. Chop the scallions and grate the ginger, setting aside for later.
Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into a medium pot and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Do not let it come to a rolling boil.
Add the soy sauce, grated ginger, and white pepper to the simmering broth. Stir well and taste, adding a pinch of salt if needed, keeping in mind the soy sauce is already salty.
Stir the cornstarch slurry once more, then slowly pour it into the simmering broth while continuously stirring. Continue to stir for 1-2 minutes until the broth slightly thickens to your desired consistency.
Reduce the heat to low. Stir the broth in a continuous, slow circular motion. While stirring, slowly drizzle the whisked egg whites into the broth in a thin stream. The egg whites will cook instantly, forming delicate ribbons.
Stop stirring once all the egg whites have been added. Let the soup sit for about 30 seconds to allow the egg ribbons to fully set. Turn off the heat.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish generously with the chopped scallions before serving immediately.
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. Stir the broth in one direction as you slowly pour the egg whites in a thin stream.
- 2Adjust seasoning to your preference. Taste the broth after adding soy sauce and ginger, then add salt or more soy sauce as needed before adding the cornstarch slurry.
- 3If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add an additional 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water to the slurry. Add it gradually until desired thickness is reached.
- 4Use a good quality broth for the best flavor, as it forms the base of this simple soup. Homemade broth will always yield the best results.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian/Vegan
Use vegetable broth and consider adding silken tofu cubes for extra protein. For a fully vegan version, omit the egg whites and use a 'no-egg' substitute or simply enjoy as a clear vegetable soup.
Heartier AdditionsHeartier Additions
For a more substantial meal, add thinly sliced cooked chicken, shredded leftover turkey, or small pieces of rehydrated shiitake mushrooms during the last few minutes of simmering.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a dash of chili garlic sauce or a few slices of fresh jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the ginger for a spicy variation. A drizzle of chili oil at the end also works wonders.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
The egg whites provide a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety, without adding significant fat or calories.
Hydrating and Low Calorie
Broth-based soups are excellent for hydration and are typically low in calories, making this a light yet satisfying option for any meal.
Immune Boosting Ingredients
Fresh ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, adding a healthful element to this comforting soup.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use whole eggs. Whisk them well before drizzling. Using whole eggs will result in slightly richer, more yellow ribbons and a slightly thicker texture due to the yolks, but the technique remains the same.
