Egg Drop Soup(From China)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Chinese

A soothing Chinese egg drop soup with tender chicken, water chestnuts, and silky eggs, perfect for a comforting appetizer or light meal with bold flavors.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 6 c. chicken broth
  • 1/2 c. chopped chicken
  • 4 chopped water chestnuts
  • 2 tsp. cornstarch
  • 3 Tbsp. water
  • 3 eggs

Instructions

  1. Bring the chicken broth, chopped chicken, and water chestnuts to a boil.
  2. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
  3. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the boiling broth, stirring constantly.
  4. Add the beaten eggs into the soup and cook until set.
  5. Serve hot.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil to the broth. If you want to enhance the texture, you can include other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Using fresh eggs will yield better results, making the egg ribbons more delicate. If you prefer a thicker soup, increase the cornstarch slightly, but be cautious not to overpower the broth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the egg drop soup hot, garnished with sliced green onions for extra flavor and color. It pairs beautifully with Chicken With Plum Sauce or Vegetable Lo Mein for a complete meal. For an authentic Chinese experience, consider offering steamed dumplings or spring rolls as a side dish to complement the soup.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling it again, as this can overcook the eggs and change the texture. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Egg Drop Soup(From China) contains roughly 148 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value).

148 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.8g 10% DV
Total Fat 2.2g 3% DV
Carbs 27.6g 10% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 283.1mg 12% DV
Potassium 218.1mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 85.3mg 28% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 19.2mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 80.6mg 6% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make egg drop soup without chicken?

Yes, you can easily modify this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead. You can also add tofu for protein and texture. Adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor, perhaps adding some garlic or ginger for depth.

What can I do if the eggs don't form ribbons?

If the eggs clump together instead of forming ribbons, it may be due to pouring them in too quickly. To achieve the desired texture, beat the eggs well and pour them in slowly while stirring the soup gently. This will help create the delicate strands characteristic of egg drop soup.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add some heat to your egg drop soup, consider incorporating a dash of white pepper or a few drops of chili oil. You can also mix in some chopped fresh chilis or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to taste. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for a personalized touch.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

Chinese recipes → Chicken recipes → All recipes →