Description
A simple and comforting Egg Drop Soup recipe that features silky egg ribbons in a flavorful chicken broth seasoned with sesame oil, turmeric, and white pepper. Ready in just 15 minutes, this classic Chinese-style soup is both quick to prepare and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 cups chicken stock (about 1 liter, organic or homemade preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon MSG (optional, adjust to taste)
Thickening Mixture
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/3 cup water
Egg and Garnish
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 scallion, chopped
Instructions
- Simmer the broth: Bring the chicken stock to a simmer in a medium soup pot over medium heat. Stir in the sesame oil, salt, sugar, white pepper, turmeric (or 5 drops of yellow food coloring if preferred), and MSG if using. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.
- Add the thickener: Mix the cornstarch thoroughly with water to create a slurry. Slowly drizzle the slurry into the simmering broth while continuously stirring to avoid clumps. Continue stirring until the soup thickens to your preferred consistency, adding more or less slurry as needed.
- Incorporate the egg: Using a ladle, stir the soup gently in a circular motion. Slowly drizzle the lightly beaten eggs into the soup. The rate and stirring determine the size of the egg ribbons, resulting in delicate swirls or small “egg flowers.” Stir just enough to distribute the eggs evenly.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth.
- The turmeric is optional but adds a vibrant yellow color typical of restaurant versions.
- Adjust the cornstarch amount for desired soup thickness.
- Use fresh eggs for the best texture and taste.
- MSG is optional and can be omitted if preferred.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese