Description
Classic Egg Drop Soup is a simple and comforting Chinese-inspired soup made with delicate ribbons of beaten eggs cooked in a flavorful chicken broth, thickened slightly with a cornstarch slurry, and garnished with fresh green onions. This quick and easy soup can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a light meal or starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil
- Salt to taste
Egg Mixture
- 3 large eggs
Thickener
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons of water
Garnish
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Heat the Broth: Heat the chicken broth in a saucepan over medium-high heat until it gently simmers, providing the base for the soup.
- Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: Whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth; this will be used to thicken the soup.
- Beat Eggs: In another bowl, beat the eggs with the ground white pepper and sesame oil until well combined to infuse flavor and prepare them for cooking.
- Create Egg Ribbons: Slowly pour the egg mixture into the simmering broth in a steady stream while stirring gently in a circular motion. This technique forms delicate egg ribbons characteristic of egg drop soup.
- Blanch Green Onions: Blanch the sliced green onions in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then drain and set aside. This step removes raw edge and enhances their brightness for garnish.
- Thicken the Soup: Stir the cornstarch mixture again to recombine, then add it to the soup while stirring continuously. Cook until the soup thickens slightly and attains a velvety texture.
- Season: Taste the soup and add salt as needed to balance all flavors perfectly.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with the blanched green onions, and serve hot for an authentic and delicious experience.
Notes
- Use freshly cracked eggs for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by varying the amount of cornstarch slurry.
- White pepper adds authentic flavor but can be substituted with black pepper if unavailable.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Adding a few drops of soy sauce can enhance the umami taste, if desired.
