Egg Drop Soup

Egg Drop Soup, also known as Egg Flower Soup, is a comforting and satisfying dish that has been cherished in Chinese cuisine for centuries. With its delicate texture and simple yet flavorful broth, this soup is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you’re seeking solace on a cold winter day or simply craving a light and nourishing meal, Egg Drop Soup is sure to warm your soul. Join us as we explore the art of making this classic dish, from its humble ingredients to its soothing aroma and taste.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 6 cups low sodium chicken broth, vegetable broth, or chicken stock
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
• 4 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 4 eggs, lightly beaten

Instructions

1. Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of chicken broth until smooth. Set aside.
2. Heat Broth: In a large pot or saucepan, bring the remaining chicken broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the sesame oil, white parts of the green onions, ground ginger, ground turmeric, ground white pepper, and low sodium soy sauce. Allow the broth to simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Thicken Soup: Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering broth while stirring continuously. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Create Egg Ribbons: While gently stirring the soup in a circular motion, slowly pour the lightly beaten eggs into the pot in a steady stream. This will create delicate egg ribbons throughout the soup.
6. Finish Soup: Allow the soup to cook for another minute or so, until the egg ribbons are set and cooked through. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce or white pepper if desired.
7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with the remaining chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth of Egg Drop Soup!

Cook’s Notes and Variations

• Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value of the soup by adding thinly sliced mushrooms, diced tofu, or shredded carrots during the simmering process.
• Spice it Up: For a touch of heat, add a dash of chili oil or sriracha sauce to the soup just before serving.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to keep the soup gluten-free.
• Add Protein: Boost the protein content of the soup by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu cubes along with the beaten eggs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
   • Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth in this recipe. It will provide a lighter flavor profile while still imparting richness to the soup.
2. How do I prevent the eggs from clumping in the soup?
   • To ensure smooth and even egg ribbons, be sure to lightly beat the eggs before adding them to the simmering broth. Pour the eggs in a steady stream while gently stirring the soup in a circular motion to create thin ribbons.
3. Can I make Egg Drop Soup ahead of time?
   • While Egg Drop Soup is best served fresh, you can prepare the broth in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the broth on the stovetop and add the beaten eggs just before serving.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Low-Carb Option: Omit the cornstarch or use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum to thicken the soup. Replace the low sodium soy sauce with coconut aminos to reduce the carb content.

Keto-Friendly Variation: Follow the low-carb option above and increase the amount of protein by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Use full-fat chicken broth for added richness and flavor.

In conclusion, Egg Drop Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that is as simple to make as it is satisfying to enjoy. With its delicate egg ribbons, fragrant broth, and subtle seasoning, this soup is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Whether served as a starter to a larger meal or enjoyed on its own, Egg Drop Soup is sure to bring warmth and comfort to any table. So, gather your ingredients and immerse yourself in the soothing embrace of this timeless classic.