Welcome to my cozy corner of the internet! I’m thrilled that you’ve stumbled across my latest recipe adventure: the ultimate egg drop soup recipe. If you’re like me, you probably crave a warm, hearty bowl of soup when the temperatures start to drop. There’s something so comforting and satisfying about snuggling up in a blanket and savoring a flavorful soup. And what’s better than making that soup yourself?
Today, I’m sharing my tried and true egg drop soup recipe that’s perfect for cozy nights in. It’s simple, delicious, and only requires a handful of ingredients. Plus, you’ll be able to whip up a big batch of soup that you can enjoy throughout the week (or freeze for later). So, let’s get started!
Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Egg Drop Soup is a classic Chinese soup that is enjoyed by many all over the world. It is made by whisking eggs into hot chicken broth to create delicate strands of cooked egg. The result is a simple yet delicious bowl of soup that is perfect for any occasion.
What is Egg Drop Soup?
Egg Drop Soup, also known as Egg Flower Soup, is a traditional Chinese soup that originated from the Sichuan province. It is a simple soup that is made by whisking eggs into hot chicken broth to create thin strands of cooked egg. The soup is thickened by the addition of cornstarch, which also gives it a smooth, velvety texture. It is a popular soup in Chinese cuisine and is also widely enjoyed in other parts of the world.
Ingredients List
To make Egg Drop Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper
- Sliced green onions and cilantro for garnish (optional)
If you don’t have some of these ingredients, don’t worry! You can easily make substitutions. For example, if you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or water. If you don’t have soy sauce, you can use tamari or Worcestershire sauce. And if you don’t have sesame oil, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get started on making the soup!
- In a medium pot, bring chicken broth to a boil over high heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt and white pepper.
- Once the chicken broth is boiling, use a whisk to stir the broth in one direction. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the pot while continuing to whisk the broth in the same direction. The motion of the whisk will create thin strands of cooked egg.
- Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and divide the soup into bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions and cilantro, if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade Egg Drop Soup!
Some tips for success when making Egg Drop Soup:
- Make sure your broth is hot and at a rolling boil before adding in the egg mixture. This will help cook the eggs properly and create those thin strands.
- Stir the broth in one direction while adding in the egg mixture to create those delicate egg strands.
- If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or water to thin it out.
- Feel free to add in other ingredients such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to make your soup more filling.
This Egg Drop Soup recipe is simple and easy to make. With a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious soup ready in no time. Give it a try and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!
Tips for Making the Best Egg Drop Soup
Choosing Eggs
The quality of ingredients is essential in having the best Egg Drop Soup. Choosing the right eggs is crucial to ensure that your soup turns out perfectly. In making this dish, people often prefer using free-range eggs due to their superior taste and quality. These eggs come from chickens that roam freely and are fed with a healthy and natural diet, producing richer and more full-bodied eggs. You can also use regular eggs, but make sure that they are fresh to have a more flavorful soup.
Seasoning and Flavors
Seasoning and flavors are essential elements in making Egg Drop Soup, as they give the dish a unique taste and aroma. The simplest version of the soup only requires salt and pepper, but you can also add other ingredients to enhance its taste. Ginger is a popular ingredient that gives the soup a warm and inviting flavor. You can also add garlic, scallions, and soy sauce to add depth and saltiness to it. The amount of seasoning and flavors to use can vary depending on your preference, you can start with a small amount and adjust it as you go.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Although Egg Drop Soup is considered a simple dish, there are many ways to serve it creatively. One idea is to serve it in a traditional-looking Chinese soup bowl to give it an authentic touch. To add some texture and flavor, add some crispy fried noodles, croutons, or wontons on top of the soup. You can also add some protein like boiled shrimp, shredded chicken, or diced ham to make it a more filling meal. Pairing it with other dishes like fried rice or a stir-fried vegetable dish also makes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Closing Thoughts
We hope that this ultimate egg drop soup recipe brings you warmth and comfort during cozy nights in. Whether you’re snuggled up on the couch alone or enjoying a night in with loved ones, this soup is sure to make your evening even more special. Try experimenting with different ingredients to make it your own, and don’t forget to share your creations with us! Thank you for taking the time to read our recipe and we hope to see you again soon.
FAQ
1. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be adapted to make it vegetarian or vegan by swapping out the chicken broth for vegetable broth.
2. How can I make this recipe more spicy?
Try adding some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give it a kick. You can also add some sliced jalapenos or hot sauce to your bowl for an extra bit of heat.
3. Can I add other veggies to this soup?
Definitely! Some great additions include diced carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so that they are cooked through.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before freezing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it on the stove.
5. How much soup does this recipe make?
This recipe makes about 4 servings, but you can easily double it to serve more people.
6. Can I use cornstarch instead of flour?
Yes, you can use cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour. Just whisk it with a bit of cold water before adding it to the soup.
7. Can I use regular onions instead of green onions?
Sure! The green onions add a bit of color and flavor, but you can use regular onions if that’s what you have on hand.
8. Can I add noodles to this soup?
Definitely! Just cook the noodles separately according to the package instructions and then add them to the soup at the end.
9. Can I use pre-made chicken broth instead of making my own?
Yes, you can definitely use pre-made chicken broth instead of making your own from scratch.
10. How long does this soup last in the fridge?
This soup will keep for about 3-4 days in the fridge, so make sure to eat it up before then!