Craving the comforting taste of your favorite restaurant-style egg drop soup? This homemade recipe brings all the familiar flavors to your kitchen, with the added benefit of knowing exactly what goes into it. Velvety ribbons of egg, fragrant sesame oil, and the savory balance of soy sauce and sherry create a rich, satisfying soup that’s ready in minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch, an appetizer, or a light dinner, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. If you’re watching your sodium intake, simply opt for low-sodium chicken broth and soy sauce for a lighter alternative without compromising taste.
Ingredients for Chinese Egg Drop Soup
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) dry sherry
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) cold water
- 1 tbsp (8 g) cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, well beaten
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced diagonally
- 2 tsp (10 ml) dark sesame oil
Instructions for Chinese Egg Drop Soup
- In a large saucepan, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, and dry sherry. Place over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- In a small bowl, stir the cold water into the cornstarch until fully dissolved. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the soup, stirring well to combine. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, or until the broth thickens slightly.
- While stirring the soup in one consistent direction, slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the pot in a thin stream. The eggs will cook instantly and form delicate ribbons throughout the soup.
- Add the sliced green onions to the soup and remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the sesame oil for an aromatic finish.
- Serve immediately. Enjoy the soup as-is or pair it with steamed dumplings or a side of fried rice for a complete meal.
This homemade Chinese egg drop soup is a testament to how simplicity can yield incredible flavor. The silky texture of the egg ribbons, the umami-packed broth, and the aromatic sesame oil create a comforting dish that’s both elegant and easy to make. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick pick-me-up or serving it as part of a larger meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Once you try it, you might never feel the need to order egg drop soup from a restaurant again!
