Homemade Egg Drop Soup

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Cozy, comforting, and ready in under 15 minutes, Homemade Egg Drop Soup is a bowl of pure warmth and simplicity. Whether you’re under the weather or simply craving something light yet satisfying, this Chinese restaurant classic hits the spot with silky ribbons of egg, savory broth, and a hint of green onion.

What makes this soup so beloved isn’t just how fast it comes together but how easily it adapts to whatever you have on hand. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms humble pantry ingredients into something deeply nourishing. Once you try making it from scratch, you’ll never go back to takeout again.

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What Kind of Broth Should I Use for Egg Drop Soup?

The broth is the soul of this soup, so using a high-quality one makes all the difference. Chicken broth is the most traditional base and gives the soup its signature comforting flavor. You can use homemade or a good-quality store-bought version. For a vegetarian twist, vegetable broth works beautifully too. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned and flavorful.

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Ingredients for the Homemade Egg Drop Soup

Chicken Broth: The base of the soup, providing richness and depth. Opt for low-sodium so you can control the salt.

Eggs: Whisked and slowly drizzled in, they create the iconic silky strands.

Cornstarch: Helps thicken the soup slightly and give it that glossy texture.

Water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch and balance the broth’s intensity.

Soy Sauce: Adds a touch of umami and depth.

Sesame Oil: A few drops go a long way to bring a nutty aroma.

Green Onions: For freshness and a mild bite; they brighten up the bowl visually and flavor-wise.

White Pepper (optional): Adds gentle heat without overpowering the delicate broth.

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How To Make the Homemade Egg Drop Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Broth Base

Pour 4 cups of chicken broth into a medium saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and a pinch of white pepper if using. This sets the savory foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Mix the Thickener

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until fully dissolved. Slowly stir this mixture into the simmering broth to slightly thicken it and create that smooth, glossy consistency.

Step 3: Whisk and Drizzle the Eggs

Crack two large eggs into a bowl and beat them well. With the soup gently simmering, use a fork or chopstick to stir the broth in one direction to create a swirl. While stirring, slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs in a thin stream. The motion creates those delicate, lacy ribbons instantly.

Step 4: Add Flavor and Garnish

Turn off the heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil for that rich, nutty aroma. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with plenty of sliced green onions. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

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How to Serve and Store Homemade Egg Drop Soup

Homemade Egg Drop Soup is best served immediately while it’s hot and the egg ribbons are fresh and tender. Garnish with extra green onions, a drizzle of sesame oil, or even a few drops of chili oil if you like a spicy kick. For a heartier meal, pair it with steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or a side of stir-fried vegetables.

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. The eggs may slightly change texture upon reheating, but the flavor will still be cozy and satisfying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the egg ribbons to form properly?

The key is to drizzle the eggs slowly into simmering (not boiling) broth while stirring in one direction. This motion helps create those beautiful wispy strands.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just swap chicken broth with vegetable broth and proceed with the rest of the recipe as is.

What can I add to make this soup more filling?

Add-ins like tofu cubes, corn kernels, spinach, or cooked shredded chicken turn this light soup into a more substantial dish.

Is white pepper necessary?

White pepper adds gentle heat without overpowering the broth, but it’s optional. Black pepper can be used as a substitute if needed.

Can I freeze Egg Drop Soup?

It’s not ideal, as the texture of the eggs changes once frozen and reheated. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated within a few days.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love the cozy simplicity of this Homemade Egg Drop Soup, you might want to try these other warming bowls from the blog:

• Creamy Shrimp Chowder if you’re in the mood for rich seafood comfort.
• Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup with bold Mediterranean flair.
• Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup for something exotic and slow-cooked.
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup when you’re craving something hearty and cheesy.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a satisfying meal that complements a light soup starter.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can make it again when those cozy cravings hit. Follow Life with Nina on Pinterest for more warm bowls, quick comfort foods, and simple weeknight favorites.

Tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! Did you go classic, or add a twist with extra toppings or heat? I love hearing how you make it your own. Share in the comments or tag me with your bowl!

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