Egg Drop Soup Recipe for Lazy Weeknight Dinners (2025)

If you’re craving a cozy bowl of comfort, egg drop soup is the answer. This Chinese-American favorite has been a staple on restaurant tables and takeout menus for decades. With its delicate egg ribbons, warm broth, and subtle flavors, it’s a dish that soothes the soul.

But here’s the best part: you don’t need to head out to a restaurant to enjoy it. With a few pantry staples and simple techniques, you can whip up this silky, flavorful soup at home in under 30 minutes.

In this guide, we’ll walk through every step of making egg drop soup, from building the perfect broth to mastering those gorgeous egg ribbons. Along the way, you’ll get insider tips, ingredient swaps, and creative add-ins to make the recipe your own.

What Is Egg Drop Soup?

Egg drop soup is one of the simplest yet most iconic dishes in Chinese cuisine. Its name comes from the method of preparing it slowly, “dropping” beaten eggs into simmering broth.

As the eggs hit the hot liquid, they transform into silky ribbons or delicate curds that float gracefully through the soup.

This dish has been enjoyed for centuries in China and has gained worldwide popularity, particularly in Chinese-American restaurants. In China, the traditional version tends to be lighter, with a thinner broth and subtle flavors.

In the United States, however, it’s often served with a thicker base, sometimes brightened with food coloring to give it a golden yellow hue.

No matter the style, the appeal of egg drop soup lies in its balance: a few humble ingredients, broth, eggs, a touch of starch, and some seasonings combine into something deeply comforting.

It’s warm, nourishing, and quick to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

The Secret to Great Egg Drop Soup

While egg drop soup may sound simple, achieving it requires a bit of attention to detail. Two elements in particular make the difference between an average bowl and a truly memorable one:

1. The Broth Base: The broth is the backbone of the soup. A rich, flavorful broth guarantees depth and warmth.
   
   • Homemade option: Simmer chicken with scallions and ginger for a clean, fragrant stock.
   • Shortcut option: Use good-quality store-bought chicken broth, but enhance it by simmering with ginger slices, scallion tops, and cilantro stems for 15–20 minutes.
2. This small step transforms ordinary broth into something fresh and aromatic.
   
3. The Egg Technique: The eggs are the star, and the way you add them decides the final texture.
   • A slow drizzle creates thin, wispy strands.
   • A quicker pour produces thicker, silkier ribbons.
   • Adding a touch of cornstarch to the beaten eggs helps keep them tender and prevents them from sinking.
4. The secret is patience: drizzle slowly, stir gently, and let the eggs set for a few seconds before moving them around.
5. Seasoning Smartly: White pepper is the traditional choice. Unlike black pepper, which is earthy and robust, white pepper has a fermented, slightly funky aroma that pairs beautifully with broth and eggs. A sprinkle of salt (carefully adjusted if using store-bought broth) completes the seasoning.

With these three elements, flavorful broth, silky eggs, and thoughtful seasoning, you’ll have a restaurant-quality soup that feels both refined and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a complete breakdown of the key ingredients and their roles.

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose / Notes
Chicken broth	6 cups (about 1.5 quarts)	The base of the soup; use homemade for depth or store-bought enhanced with aromatics
Fresh ginger	2–3 slices	Adds subtle warmth and freshness
Scallions	2, chopped	Used in the broth and as a garnish
Cilantro stems	Handful (4–5 stems)	Infuses broth with a mild herbal flavor
Cornstarch	1 tbsp + 2 tsp (for slurry)	Thickens the broth so eggs float gracefully
Cold water	2–3 tbsp (for slurry)	Dissolve the cornstarch into a smooth mixture
Eggs	4 large	Beaten with a touch of starch, the main feature of the soup
Extra cornstarch	1 tsp (for eggs)	Keeps egg ribbons tender and suspended
Salt	To taste	Adjust carefully, especially with store-bought broth
White pepper	½–1 tsp (to taste)	Traditional seasoning that adds subtle, aromatic heat
Optional garnishes	To preference	Scallions, cilantro leaves, peas, tofu, shrimp, mushrooms, chicken, or ham

This table provides a clear shopping list and illustrates how each ingredient contributes to the soup’s texture and flavor.

Step by Step: How to Make Egg Drop Soup

Egg drop soup may look elegant, but making it at home is surprisingly simple. With the right approach, you can turn a few basic ingredients into a restaurant-quality bowl in under 20 minutes. Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Building the Broth

Every great soup begins with an excellent broth, and egg drop soup is no exception. Think of the broth as the stage; the better the stage, the more impressive the performance.

• Homemade broth option: If you have the time, simmer chicken bones with fresh ginger and scallions for a rich, homemade broth. This gives you a clean, intensely flavored base that’s fragrant and nourishing. Adding a ham bone can enrich the broth with extra depth, creating a subtle smoky undertone.
• Store-bought broth option: Short on time? No worries. A high-quality boxed chicken broth works just fine. The trick is to elevate it. Add a few slices of fresh ginger, the white parts of two scallions, and a handful of cilantro stems. Let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the liquid to infuse with brightness and complexity.

While simmering, resist the urge to rush. The gentle bubbling allows the aromatics to release their oils and flavor molecules without becoming bitter. Once the broth is fragrant, strain out the solids. What you’re left with is a clear, golden base that already smells like comfort.

👉 Pro tip: If you’d like, make the broth a day ahead. The flavors deepen overnight in the fridge, and you can reheat when you’re ready to assemble the soup.

Step 2: Preparing the Thickener

Now that your broth is ready, it’s time to create the texture that makes egg drop soup so recognizable. That glossy, slightly thick consistency isn’t heavy like cream soups, but it has enough body to hold the delicate egg ribbons in suspension.

This is where cornstarch slurry comes in. Here’s how to make it properly:

1. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with about 2–3 tablespoons of cold water.
2. Stir until smooth, with no lumps.

Why cold water? If you add cornstarch directly into hot broth, the outer layer gelatinizes instantly, trapping dry powder inside. This creates gummy, unpleasant clumps that are nearly impossible to fix. By mixing with cold water first, you ensure the starch granules are fully hydrated and evenly distributed.

Once dissolved, slowly stir the slurry into the simmering broth. Within a minute, the liquid should thicken slightly and develop a glossy sheen. It won’t be pudding-thick; it should just lightly coat the back of a spoon.

👉 Adjust to preference: If you love the thicker, almost custardy style of American Chinese restaurants, add a little more slurry. If you prefer the lighter Chinese version, stick with the base amount.

Step 3: Beating the Eggs

Now for the star of the show: the eggs. This step is simple but makes all the difference in texture.

1. Crack four large eggs into a mixing bowl.
2. Add a teaspoon of cornstarch and a pinch of salt.
3. Beat the mixture until smooth and uniform.

The cornstarch in the eggs plays a clever role. It prevents the proteins from tightening too much when they come into contact with the hot broth. The result? Tender, silky ribbons rather than tough, rubbery strands.

When beating the eggs, aim for a fluid consistency, neither frothy nor chunky. You don’t want big air bubbles, which can disrupt the delicate flow once they’re drizzled in.

👉 Pro tip: Crack eggs against the edge of the bowl, not a flat counter. It may seem counterintuitive, but this method reduces the likelihood of shell fragments slipping into the mix, resulting in a cleaner crack.

Step 4: Creating Egg Ribbons

This is the magical moment when broth and eggs come together. Done right, you’ll see thin strands of golden silk drifting through your soup like floating clouds.

Here’s the method:

1. Lower the broth to a bare simmer, gentle bubbling, not a rolling boil. Too much movement will shred the eggs into tiny bits, rather than forming long ribbons.
2. Slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the broth. Use a spoon, chopsticks, or even pour straight from a spouted measuring cup.
3. As you drizzle, gently stir the broth in one direction. This circular motion creates flow, encouraging the eggs to form into strands rather than clumps.

The speed at which you pour affects the result:

• Slow drizzle → fine, lacy threads.
• Faster pour → thicker, silkier ribbons.

Once the eggs are in, pause for a few seconds before stirring again. This allows them to set slightly, so they hold their shape. Then, with a few lazy stirs, distribute them evenly throughout the broth.

👉 Pro tip: If you want a restaurant-style look, use chopsticks or a fork to “wave” gently across the surface as you pour. This spreads the eggs into delicate streams.

Step 5: Seasoning and Finishing Touches

With the eggs set, your soup is almost complete. Now comes the final polish.

1. Season with salt carefully. If you’re using store-bought broth, it may already be seasoned with salt. Taste before adding more.
2. Add white pepper. This is the traditional choice for egg drop soup. Unlike black pepper, which has a sharp, earthy bite, white pepper carries a subtle heat with a faintly fermented aroma. It adds authenticity and depth without overpowering the broth.

At this stage, you can customize the soup to your liking. Some options include:

• Fresh garnishes: Scatter sliced scallions or fresh cilantro leaves for brightness.
• Vegetables: Frozen peas, sweet corn, or spinach add color and nutrition.
• Proteins: Silken tofu cubes, rotisserie chicken, or even shrimp can make the dish more filling.
• Mushrooms: Thinly sliced shiitakes or buttons bring earthy richness.
• A splash of sesame oil: For a nutty, aromatic finish.

Serve the soup immediately while it’s hot. The eggs are at their silkiest right after cooking, and the flavors are at their peak.

Bringing It All Together

In less than 20 minutes, you’ve transformed everyday ingredients into something magical. Let’s recap the journey:

• You built a broth infused with ginger, scallion, and cilantro.
• You thickened it with a simple cornstarch slurry for body.
• You whisked eggs with a touch of cornstarch, keeping them tender.
• You drizzled those eggs into simmering broth, creating golden ribbons.
• You seasoned with salt, white pepper, and garnished to taste.

The result? A bowl of soup that’s silky, savory, and endlessly comforting. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main with a side of rice or dumplings, egg drop soup is a reminder that the simplest recipes are often the most rewarding.

Flavor Variations to Try

One of the joys of egg drop soup is its adaptability. While the classic version is soothing and elegant, you can add a twist to suit your mood, season, or what’s in your fridge. Here are some popular and creative variations:

Variation	What to Add	Why It Works
Vegetable Boost	Frozen peas, corn, spinach, or bok choy	Adds color, freshness, and a nutritional lift.
Protein Punch	Rotisserie chicken, cooked shrimp, or tofu	Makes the soup heartier and more filling, turning it into a main meal.
Mushroom Lovers	Shiitake, button, or cremini mushrooms	Brings an earthy, umami flavor that complements the silky texture of the eggs.
Silken Tofu	Cubes of soft tofu	Creates a delicate “soft on soft” texture alongside the egg ribbons.
Spicy Kick	A drizzle of chili oil or red pepper flakes	Adds warmth and depth for spice enthusiasts.
Fusion Twist	Miso paste or coconut milk	Miso adds savory Japanese flair; coconut milk gives a creamy Southeast Asian vibe.
Herbal Freshness	Cilantro leaves, Thai basil, or dill	Brightens the soup with fresh aromatics.
Meaty Depth	Ham cubes or pork bits	Lends a smoky, savory character that balances the mild broth.

👉 With a few tweaks, this humble soup becomes endlessly versatile. Try experimenting with egg drop soup, which is forgiving and welcomes your creativity.

5 Tips for Success

Making egg drop soup is simple, but a few little tricks guarantee silky ribbons, balanced flavor, and the perfect texture.

1. Simmer, Don’t Boil. Keep the broth at a gentle simmer when adding the eggs. Too much heat shreds them into tiny bits, rather than ribbons.
2. Master the Slurry. Always dissolve cornstarch in cold water before adding it to hot broth. This prevents unpleasant lumps and ensures a smooth, glossy texture.
3. Beat Eggs Thoroughly. A uniform mixture drizzles smoothly, creating consistent strands. Avoid frothy eggs, which can lead to uneven ribbons.
4. Season Smartly. Store-bought broths can be salty; always taste before adding more salt to avoid over-salting. Adjust with care, and let white pepper provide the aromatic finish.
5. Serve Right Away. Egg drop soup is best enjoyed immediately. The delicate egg ribbons lose their silky texture if the soup sits too long or is reheated repeatedly.

👉 Think of these tips as your safety net; they’ll help you avoid common mistakes and make every bowl shine.

Serving Suggestions

Egg drop soup is versatile; it can serve as a light starter, a comforting side dish, or even the star of the meal. Here are some ideas for enjoying it:

• As a Starter: Serve it before stir-fries, dumplings, or fried rice to round out a Chinese-inspired meal.
• With Rice or Noodles: Pair it with steamed rice, garlic fried rice, or simple lo mein for a satisfying dinner.
• For a light lunch, add vegetables and tofu to the soup, then enjoy it on its own with crusty bread or steamed buns.
• As a side dish, serve alongside roasted meats, grilled seafood, or pan-fried dumplings.
• Comfort Food Combo: Pair a steaming bowl with scallion pancakes or spring rolls for a cozy night in.

👉 This soup adapts beautifully to any occasion, from a quick lunch to a family dinner or an elegant starter for guests.

Nutritional Benefits

Egg drop soup isn’t just tasty; it’s also nourishing. It manages to be both light and satisfying, making it a brilliant addition to your meal plan.

• High in Protein, Eggs provide complete protein, supporting muscle repair and energy.
• Low in Calories, A bowl is filling without being heavy, making it an excellent choice for those watching calories.
• Rich in Vitamins & Minerals. Ingredients such as scallions, cilantro, and ginger provide antioxidants and immune-boosting properties.
• Gentle on Digestion. Its light texture makes it ideal for days when you want something soothing or when you’re under the weather.
• Customizable Nutrition: Add leafy greens for extra fiber, tofu for plant-based protein, or shrimp for omega-3 fatty acids.

👉 It’s comfort food with benefits, warming, nourishing, and adaptable to your health needs.

Final Thoughts

Egg drop soup is proof that the simplest recipes often bring the most comfort. With just a few pantry staples, broth, eggs, and cornstarch, you can create a dish that feels both nourishing and elegant. The silky ribbons of egg floating in a fragrant broth are like a warm embrace in a bowl, ready in less than 20 minutes.

Whether you keep it classic with ginger and scallions or experiment with tofu, mushrooms, or shrimp, this soup is endlessly versatile. It adapts to your mood, your pantry, and your schedule. The key is patience with the eggs, balance in seasoning, and the willingness to enjoy the process.

So next time you’re craving something cozy, skip the takeout menu. Make this egg drop soup at home, and you’ll be surprised at how rewarding it feels to master such a timeless recipe.

More Cozy Soup Recipes You’ll Love

If you loved this recipe, you’ll want to add these comforting soups to your weeknight rotation. Each one is quick, family-friendly, and full of flavor:

• 🥟 Easy 35-Min Wonton Soup Recipe for Families
  A hearty and satisfying soup loaded with wontons, tender veggies, and savory broth. Perfect for busy family dinners.
• 🥔 Creamy Gnocchi Soup Recipe Perfect for Weeknights
  Inspired by Olive Garden’s classic, this creamy gnocchi soup is rich, cozy, and ready in under an hour.
• 🥦 Creamy Cauliflower Soup Recipe in Just 40 Minutes
  A velvety smooth soup that’s light yet satisfying, ideal for chilly evenings or when you want a healthy comfort food fix.