Egg Drop Soup Recipes

Egg Drop Soup Recipes

Egg drop soup is a timeless comfort food that feels both luxurious and simple. With its silky ribbons of egg swirling through a flavorful broth, it’s a dish that soothes the soul without demanding hours in the kitchen. Traditionally Chinese, egg drop soup has taken on many variations around the world, adapting to different tastes and ingredients. Whether you’re seeking a traditional version, a hearty meal upgrade, or a vegetarian twist, there’s an egg drop soup for you.

Here, we'll dive into three delicious egg drop soup recipes you can make at home:

Classic Chinese Egg Drop Soup

Chicken and Corn Egg Drop Soup

Spicy Spinach Egg Drop Soup (Vegetarian)

Each recipe brings its own charm, and together, they showcase the versatility of this beloved dish.

1. Classic Chinese Egg Drop Soup

This traditional recipe honors the simple, elegant origins of egg drop soup. It’s light, slightly thickened, and full of delicate flavor. Perfect for when you want a quick starter or a light meal.

Ingredients:

4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for a slightly thicker soup)

1 teaspoon soy sauce

½ teaspoon sesame oil

1/4 teaspoon white pepper

2 green onions, finely sliced

Salt to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the broth: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Adjust seasoning with a little salt if needed.

Thicken (optional): If you prefer a slightly thicker texture, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly whisk it into the simmering broth, stirring constantly, and let it cook for 1-2 minutes.

Create the egg ribbons: Beat the eggs lightly in a bowl. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. With one hand, stir the broth slowly in a circular motion, and with the other hand, drizzle the beaten eggs into the broth in a thin stream. Watch as beautiful ribbons of egg form almost instantly.

Finish and serve: Once the egg sets (about 30 seconds), turn off the heat. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions.

Tips:

Use a fork to stir for finer egg ribbons, or a ladle for larger, fluffier strands.

Serve with crispy wonton strips or a side of steamed dumplings for a satisfying meal.

2. Chicken and Corn Egg Drop Soup

A heartier twist on the classic, this version adds shredded chicken and sweet corn to create a more filling meal. It's great for using up leftover chicken and brings comforting richness without becoming heavy.

Ingredients:

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

1 tablespoon soy sauce

½ teaspoon ginger, minced

1 teaspoon sesame oil

2 green onions, sliced

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Simmer the base: In a large saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, and corn. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes.

Add chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and continue simmering for another 3 minutes, until heated through.

Thicken the broth: Stir the cornstarch slurry into the pot, stirring constantly until the broth slightly thickens.

Drizzle the eggs: Beat the eggs in a small bowl. Gently stir the soup in a circular motion, then slowly pour the beaten eggs into the soup. Watch the egg form delicate strands.

Serve: Remove from heat, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Tips:

Add a few drops of chili oil or sprinkle with white pepper for a spicy kick.

For extra flavor, toss in a handful of baby spinach or chopped cilantro right before serving.

3. Spicy Spinach Egg Drop Soup (Vegetarian)

This vibrant, vegetarian-friendly egg drop soup features a spicy broth and tender spinach leaves. It’s healthy, colorful, and perfect for anyone craving something bold and nourishing.

Ingredients:

4 cups vegetable broth

2 large eggs

2 cups fresh spinach leaves

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)

½ teaspoon sesame oil

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper

2 green onions, sliced

Salt to taste

Instructions:

Flavor the broth: Bring vegetable broth to a simmer in a saucepan. Stir in soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Taste and adjust the spiciness by adding more chili garlic sauce if desired.

Add spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach leaves and let them wilt, about 1 minute.

Thicken the soup: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer until the broth slightly thickens, about 2 minutes.

Drop in the eggs: Beat the eggs. With the broth gently swirling, slowly drizzle in the eggs to create silky ribbons.

Final touches: Turn off the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

Tips:

Add tofu cubes for extra protein.

Drizzle with a little extra sesame oil or sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving for a rich, nutty finish.

Why Egg Drop Soup is a Staple in Every Kitchen

Egg drop soup holds a special place in kitchens around the world for good reason. It’s incredibly fast — you can whip up a satisfying pot in less than 15 minutes. It’s also affordable — eggs, broth, and a few basic seasonings are all you really need.

Another key reason is its adaptability. You can make it heartier by adding shredded meat, turn it vegetarian with fresh greens, or spice it up with bold seasonings. You can thicken it or keep it brothier, depending on your mood. You can even play with different broths — miso broth, mushroom broth, or bone broth can completely change the character of the soup.

From a health standpoint, egg drop soup is a nutritious choice. It’s naturally low in carbs and packed with protein from the eggs. If you use a high-quality broth, you also get the added benefits of minerals and collagen (especially from homemade broths).

Plus, it’s pure comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want something cozy after a long day, a bowl of egg drop soup offers warmth and a sense of calm.

Egg drop soup’s beauty lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can create something that feels both nourishing and elegant. Whether you stick with the classic Chinese version, enjoy the hearty chicken and corn twist, or try the spicy spinach vegetarian option, you’re sure to find a new favorite.

Best of all, once you’ve mastered the basic method, you can start creating your own variations — adding mushrooms, peas, tofu, or even a splash of coconut milk for a unique spin. Egg drop soup invites creativity, and every bowl can be tailored to your cravings.

Helpful Reading 

Homegrown Cabbage Smoothies and Juices for Gut Healing 

https://www.amazon.com/Homegrown-Cabbage-Smoothies-Juices-Health-ebook/dp/B0F6474KCT/

Organic Pest Control for 3 Sisters Gardening 

https://www.amazon.com/Organic-Control-Gardening-Homegrown-Vegetables-ebook/dp/B0F5ZCDY4S/

Salmon for the Active Soul 

https://www.amazon.com/Salmon-Active-Soul-Protein-Packed-Enthusiasts-ebook/dp/B0F5DWJZ66/

The Low Carb Homegrown Cabbage Cookbook: Keto and Diabetic -Friendly Recipes 

https://www.amazon.com/Low-Carb-Homegrown-Cabbage-Cookbook-Diabetic-ebook/dp/B0F63ZF9BT