Few dishes can wrap you in warmth and comfort as quickly as a steaming bowl of Egg Drop Soup. With its delicate ribbons of egg swirling in a savory broth and a dash of green onion to finish, it brings a delightful balance of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re under the weather or just craving a soothing dish, this soup comes to the rescue in under 15 minutes.

Egg Drop Soup is a beloved classic in Chinese-American cuisine. It’s economical, incredibly fast to make, and endlessly customizable. Some variations add sweet corn, tofu, or even a touch of heat with white pepper or chili oil. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for a low-carb, light, and wholesome meal.
What Kind of Broth Works Best in Egg Drop Soup?
A good quality broth is the soul of this dish. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the saltiness. If you’re vegetarian, mushroom or vegetable broth works beautifully. A splash of soy sauce or sesame oil can boost umami depth, depending on your taste.
Ingredients for the Egg Drop Soup
- Chicken Broth: The base of the soup. Choose a rich, flavorful broth—homemade or store-bought.
- Eggs: The star of the dish. Lightly beaten eggs form the signature silky strands.
- Cornstarch Slurry: Thickens the broth slightly, giving it that restaurant-style consistency.
- Green Onions: For garnish and a hint of sharp freshness.
- Soy Sauce: Adds depth and saltiness.
- White Pepper: Optional, but it gives that traditional, slightly spicy aroma.
- Sesame Oil: Just a few drops can lift the entire flavor profile.
How To Make the Egg Drop Soup
Step 1: Create the Flavorful Base
In a saucepan, bring your chicken broth to a gentle boil. Stir in soy sauce, white pepper (if using), and a few drops of sesame oil.
Step 2: Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until fully dissolved. Slowly stir this into the simmering broth to slightly thicken it.
Step 3: Swirl in the Eggs
With the soup at a low simmer, use a spoon or chopsticks to gently stir the broth in a circular motion. Slowly pour in the beaten eggs in a thin stream. The swirling motion will create delicate ribbons of egg.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and ladle into bowls. Top with chopped green onions and an extra splash of sesame oil if desired.

Best Ways to Serve and Store Egg Drop Soup
Serve Egg Drop Soup immediately while the egg ribbons are tender and just set. If you need to store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as it sits; simply add a bit of broth or water when reheating.
What to Serve With Egg Drop Soup?
Steamed Dumplings
A perfect pairing that adds a chewy, flavorful bite alongside the lightness of the soup.
Fried Rice
Whether it’s classic egg fried rice or a veggie-packed version, it complements the soup well.
Spring Rolls
Crispy and fresh, they provide texture contrast and fun dipping options.
Sesame Cucumber Salad
Bright and cooling, this salad balances the warmth of the soup with its crunch.
Scallion Pancakes
Their savory, flaky goodness makes them an ideal partner.
Stir-Fried Greens
Garlic bok choy or Chinese broccoli bring nutrients and crunch to the table.
Tofu Stir-Fry
Adds protein and a more filling element to round out your meal.
Want More Soup Ideas?
If you love the simplicity and comfort of Egg Drop Soup, here are other bowls of joy to warm your week:
- Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a rich, cheesy twist.
- Tuscan Bean Soup when you’re craving rustic, hearty flavors.
- Italian Sausage Soup for something spicier and heartier.
- Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup if you’re looking for an aromatic kick.
- Creamy Beef and Shells for those who love a meaty, satisfying bowl.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add tofu or keep it classic? Try it with corn or a drizzle of chili oil?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make the coziest bowls.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting soups and cozy meals on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest and discover your new go-to comfort bowl!
Egg Drop Soup
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Craving something warm, nourishing, and fast? This Egg Drop Soup is your answer. It’s silky, savory, and ready in under 15 minutes—perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or when you need some cozy comfort. Made with pantry staples like chicken broth, eggs, and soy sauce, it’s as simple as it is satisfying. Great for low-carb diets, easy recipe lovers, or anyone searching for food ideas that bring comfort without the fuss. Whether you’re planning breakfast ideas or need a healthy snack or easy dinner, this soup fits the bill.
Ingredients
4 cups chicken broth
2 large eggs, beaten
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional)
2 stalks green onions, chopped
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper if using.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the broth.
3. Reduce heat to a low simmer and begin stirring the broth in a circular motion.
4. Slowly pour in the beaten eggs in a thin stream while stirring to create ribbons.
5. Turn off the heat. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot.
Notes
Stirring in one direction while pouring the eggs creates better ribbon-like strands.
For added texture, toss in corn or tofu before adding the egg.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 0.6g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3.2g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: egg drop soup, quick soup, Chinese soup, low carb soup, easy dinner, healthy snack
