Egg Drop Soup with Scallions

Egg Drop Soup with Scallions is a classic Chinese comfort soup known for its silky egg ribbons, delicate flavor, and soothing warmth. This simple yet elegant soup is made by gently swirling beaten eggs into a hot, seasoned broth, creating soft, cloud-like strands that melt in your mouth. Fresh scallions add brightness, aroma, and a subtle crunch that balances the smooth texture of the soup beautifully.

Loved for its simplicity and speed, egg drop soup is perfect when you want something light, nourishing, and satisfying. Whether served as a starter or a light meal, this timeless recipe brings restaurant-style flavor to your home kitchen in minutes.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s comfort in a bowl. It comes together quickly, uses pantry staples, and delivers incredible flavor with very little effort. The silky texture of the eggs paired with the savory broth and fresh scallions makes every spoonful soothing and satisfying—especially on cold days or when you want something gentle and nourishing.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Ready in under 15 minutes
• Light yet comforting and flavorful
• Made with simple, affordable ingredients
• Perfect as a starter or light meal
• Customizable with spices and add-ins

Preparation Details

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 90–120 calories per serving

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Soup / Appetizer
• Cuisine: Chinese / Asian

Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• Salt to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• A pinch of turmeric (for color)
• Corn kernels or tofu cubes

Cooking Directions

1. Bring broth to a gentle boil in a saucepan.
2. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and pepper.
3. Add cornstarch slurry and simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Slowly drizzle in beaten eggs while stirring.
5. Add scallions, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Pour chicken broth into a medium saucepan and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 2: Season the Soup

Add soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Thicken the Broth

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Slowly stir it into the soup and simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Reduce heat to low. Slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the hot broth while gently stirring in a circular motion to create silky ribbons.

Step 5: Finish with Scallions

Add sliced scallions, stir gently, and remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in small bowls as an appetizer
• Pair with fried rice, dumplings, or noodles
• Garnish with extra scallions or a drizzle of sesame oil

Recipe Tips

• Stir slowly when adding eggs for long, silky ribbons
• Keep the broth hot but not boiling when adding eggs
• Use white pepper for authentic flavor
• Adjust thickness by adding more or less cornstarch

Variations

Spicy Egg Drop Soup

Add chili oil or chili flakes for heat.

Ginger Egg Drop Soup

Add fresh grated ginger to the broth for warmth and depth.

Vegetarian Version

Use vegetable broth and add mushrooms or tofu.

Lemon Egg Drop Soup

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Protein-Boosted Soup

Add shredded chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Freezer

• Not recommended, as eggs change texture when frozen

Reheating

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat
• Avoid boiling to preserve egg texture

Special Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk or fork for eggs
• Wooden spoon or ladle

Conclusion

Egg Drop Soup with Scallions is a timeless, comforting dish that proves simplicity can be incredibly delicious. With silky egg ribbons, savory broth, and fresh scallions, this soup is perfect for busy days, light meals, or as a starter to any Asian-inspired dinner. Quick, nourishing, and endlessly comforting, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.