Homemade Egg Drop Soup (Print)

Silky egg ribbons in savory Chinese broth with scallions and sesame oil, ready in 15 minutes.

# Components:

→ Broth Base

01 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
02 - 1 teaspoon soy sauce
03 - 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
04 - 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
06 - 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for slight thickening)
07 - 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry, optional)

→ Egg Mixture

08 - 3 large eggs

→ Garnish

09 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
10 - 1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)

# Directions:

01 - In a medium saucepan, bring the broth, soy sauce, white pepper, sesame oil and salt to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
02 - If a slightly thicker texture is desired, whisk the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water until smooth, stir the slurry into the simmering broth and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the liquid slightly thickens.
03 - Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat thoroughly with a fork or whisk until homogenous and lightly frothy.
04 - Reduce the heat to low. Stir the simmering broth slowly in a single circular motion with a fork or chopsticks and, while stirring, drizzle the beaten eggs in a thin steady stream to form silky ribbons.
05 - Allow the eggs to set for about 30 seconds, then gently stir once to break up any overly large ribbons and achieve an even distribution of egg throughout the broth.
06 - Ladle into bowls and finish with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The silken eggs and aromatic broth turn humble ingredients into something soothingly special you can make in minutes.
  • This is the kind of soup that impresses with its simplicity, and you'll find yourself craving it whenever you need a gentle pick-me-up.
02 -
  • Stirring too quickly or pouring eggs too fast can turn the ribbons into scrambled bits—I learned that one messy lunch at my own expense.
  • Adding the sesame oil just before serving, not while the broth boils, preserves its fragrant punch.
03 -
  • If something goes wrong, strain the soup before serving for a smooth finish—nobody will ever know.
  • Fresh eggs and good broth are everything; the rest is optional.
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