Easy Egg Drop Soup Recipe

Easy Egg Drop Soup Recipe

Save this recipe on:

Warm, comforting, and surprisingly simple, this Easy Egg Drop Soup is a homemade version of your favorite takeout classic. With delicate egg ribbons floating in a seasoned broth, it’s the perfect answer to chilly nights, quick lunches, or whenever you need something nourishing fast. Whether you’re under the weather or just want a light start to a meal, this soup delivers a soothing experience in every spoonful.

What makes this soup shine is its simplicity. You only need a handful of pantry staples and a few minutes on the stove to bring it all together. The subtle flavor of the broth paired with the silkiness of the eggs creates a beautiful balance, while fresh scallions add a pop of color and brightness that elevates the dish without complicating it.


Why You’ll Love This Easy Egg Drop Soup

  • Quick to make: Ready in under 15 minutes from start to finish.
  • Minimal ingredients: Uses basic staples like eggs, broth, and cornstarch.
  • Customizable: Add tofu, mushrooms, or a touch of soy sauce for a different twist.
  • Soothing and light: Perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
  • Budget-friendly: Wholesome comfort without a hefty grocery list.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

  • Medium Saucepan: The heart of the process; it evenly heats the broth and ensures the eggs cook smoothly without sticking.
  • Whisk or Fork: Used to beat the eggs into a consistent mixture before streaming into the soup.
  • Ladle: Ideal for gently swirling the broth while pouring in the eggs, which helps create the signature egg ribbons.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get the right ratio of broth to cornstarch and seasoning.
  • Small Bowl: For creating a slurry with cornstarch before adding to the soup. Prevents clumping and keeps the broth silky.

Having these tools on hand will make the preparation seamless and help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor in this comforting soup.


Pin this Recipe

Ingredients for the Easy Egg Drop Soup

  • Chicken Broth – Forms the base of the soup, providing depth and savoriness.
  • Eggs – The star of the show, creating delicate egg ribbons when streamed into hot broth.
  • Cornstarch – Thickens the soup just enough to give it a silky texture.
  • Water – Used to make the cornstarch slurry, ensuring even distribution.
  • Salt and White Pepper – For seasoning; white pepper adds gentle heat.
  • Sesame Oil (optional) – Adds a hint of nutty aroma and authentic flavor.
  • Green Onions – Fresh and vibrant, they finish the soup with color and brightness.

How To Make the Easy Egg Drop Soup

Step 1: Heat the Broth

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat. This will be the base where all the flavors come together.

Step 2: Make the Slurry

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until fully dissolved. Slowly stir this slurry into the simmering broth to slightly thicken it.

Step 3: Season the Broth

Add salt and white pepper to the broth to taste. If using, drizzle in a touch of sesame oil for extra flavor.

Step 4: Stream in the Eggs

Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Turn the heat to low and begin stirring the broth in one direction. Slowly pour in the beaten eggs in a thin stream, letting them cook instantly into ribbons.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the eggs are set, remove the pot from heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.


How to Serve and Store Easy Egg Drop Soup

Serving Tips:

  • Serve immediately for the best texture and warmth.
  • Pair with a light salad, steamed dumplings, or spring rolls for a complete meal.
  • Add extra toppings like sliced shiitake mushrooms, tofu cubes, or a swirl of chili oil if desired.

Storing Tips:

  • Refrigerate: Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Gently warm over low heat on the stove. Stir gently to avoid breaking the egg ribbons.
  • Avoid freezing: The eggs may become rubbery, so freezing isn’t recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely. Vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version and still brings comforting flavor.

How do I get those perfect egg ribbons?

The key is a steady pour of the beaten eggs into a gently swirling hot broth. Stirring slowly and in one direction helps create the signature ribbons.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

You can prepare the broth and slurry in advance, but it’s best to add and cook the eggs just before serving to preserve their texture.

What can I add to make it more filling?

Try adding cooked noodles, tofu, or shredded chicken. Even corn or peas can give the soup more substance.

Is this soup gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free broth and cornstarch, yes! Always check the labels to be sure.

Can I use whole eggs straight from the fridge?

Yes, just make sure they are well-beaten before streaming them in. Room temperature eggs may incorporate slightly better, but cold eggs work just fine.


Want More Soup Ideas?

If this easy egg drop soup warmed your day, here are more comforting bowlfuls you’ll love:


Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding tofu or spice it up with chili oil? I love hearing how others make this soup their own.

Have questions or suggestions? Let’s help each other cook better one bowl at a time.


Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Easy Egg Drop Soup Recipe

Easy Egg Drop Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Kate Walton
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Description

This Easy Egg Drop Soup recipe is a quick, comforting, and nourishing dish made with chicken broth, eggs, and a simple cornstarch slurry. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re feeling under the weather, this light and silky Chinese-inspired soup is gluten-free, budget-friendly, and ready in just 15 minutes.


Ingredients

2 cups chicken broth

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 tablespoons water

1/4 teaspoon white pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

2 tablespoons chopped green onions


Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a gentle boil over medium heat.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the broth to thicken slightly.

3. Season the broth with salt and white pepper. Add sesame oil if using.

4. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs well.

5. Reduce the heat to low. Stir the broth in one direction with a ladle or spoon, and slowly pour in the beaten eggs in a thin stream to create ribbons.

6. Once the eggs are cooked and set, turn off the heat.

7. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.

Notes

Stir gently and continuously in one direction to create the perfect egg ribbons.

Adjust seasoning to taste—white pepper gives a traditional flavor, but black pepper can be used as a substitute.

Do not boil after adding the eggs, as overcooking can ruin the delicate texture.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 0.5g
  • Sodium: 730mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg

Save this recipe on: