Sweet Corn Egg Soup
A warm, comforting bowl of silky sweet corn soup with delicate egg ribbons floating throughout. This beloved Indo-Chinese classic comes together in just 20 minutes with sweet corn puree, gentle seasonings, and beaten eggs stirred in right at the end for that signature wispy texture. Perfect as a light dinner or starter on a chilly evening.
For 4 servings
- prep
Prepare the corn puree.
1.Blend 1.5 cups sweet corn kernels with 1 cup water until smooth.2.Keep the remaining 0.5 cup corn kernels whole for texture. - saute · ~2 min
Sauté the aromatics.
1.Heat oil in a pot over medium heat until shimmering.2.Add chopped garlic, ginger, and spring onion whites. Sauté until fragrant and soft, about 2 minutes. - simmer · ~7 min
Cook the soup base.
1.Pour in the corn puree and add 2 cups water. Stir well.2.Add the reserved 0.5 cup whole corn kernels.3.Season with salt, black pepper, white pepper, sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar. Bring to a gentle boil.TIPStir occasionally to prevent the corn from settling and sticking to the bottom. - simmer · ~4 min
Thicken the soup.
1.Give the cornflour slurry a quick stir and slowly pour it into the simmering soup while stirring continuously.2.Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the soup thickens to a light, silky consistency.TIPPour the slurry in a thin stream and keep stirring — this prevents lumps. - simmer · ~2 min
Create the egg ribbons.
1.Reduce heat to low so the soup is barely simmering.2.Slowly drizzle the beaten eggs in a thin, steady stream while gently stirring the soup in one direction.3.Let it sit undisturbed for 30 seconds so the egg strands set.TIPKeep the heat very low when adding eggs. High heat turns them into rubbery chunks instead of silky ribbons. - garnish
Finish and serve hot.
1.Ladle the soup into bowls.2.Sprinkle the reserved spring onion greens generously on top.3.Serve immediately while piping hot.TIPAdd a dash of extra white pepper at the table for warmth.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use low heat when drizzling eggs to create delicate, silky ribbons instead of tough clumps.
- 2Stir the cornflour slurry thoroughly before adding to avoid lumps in the soup.
- 3For extra texture, reserve a few whole corn kernels beyond the ½ cup and add them at the end.
- 4Make the soup base up to 2 days ahead; add the egg ribbons just before serving.
- 5Taste and adjust the vinegar and white pepper at the table for a brighter, warmer flavor.
- 6If using frozen corn, thaw and drain well so the puree isn't watery.
Adapt it for your goals.
High-protein
Add 100g of finely shredded cooked chicken or firm tofu cubes along with the whole corn kernels. This boosts the protein content and makes the soup more substantial for a main meal.
veganVegan
Omit the eggs and replace with ½ cup of silken tofu blended into the corn puree for creaminess. Garnish with extra spring onions and a dash of sesame oil.
spicy hotSpicy-hot
Add 1 teaspoon of chili oil or ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes when sautéing the garlic and ginger. It gives the soup a warming kick without overpowering the sweet corn.
vegetable loadedVegetable-loaded
Add ¼ cup each of finely diced carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage along with the aromatics. Sauté for 2 minutes before adding the liquid for extra color and nutrition.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Sweet corn provides dietary fiber that supports healthy digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Light and Low-Calorie
This soup is made without cream or heavy thickeners, making it a satisfying yet low-calorie option for a starter or light meal.
Natural Vitamin Boost
Garlic, ginger, and spring onions add immune-supporting antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds to this comforting bowl.
Good Quality Protein
The eggs contribute complete protein and essential amino acids, helping to keep you full and support muscle maintenance.
Frequently asked questions
The heat was likely too high. Keep the soup at a bare simmer (low heat) and drizzle the egg in a thin, steady stream while stirring gently in one direction.
