Authentic Chinese Egg Drop Soup Recipe Made in a Wok

I’m very happy to share with you one of my favorite simple and comforting recipes: Chinese Egg Drop Soup. This delicious soup, known for its delicate ribbons of egg floating in a flavorful broth, is a staple in Chinese cuisine. It originated in ancient China and has been enjoyed across countless generations for its simplicity and soothing qualities.

What makes this recipe special is its straightforward preparation and the use of a wok pan, which allows for better heat distribution. You’ll love this recipe because it’s light, nutritious, and perfect for those days when you need a quick yet satisfying meal. Let’s get started and you’ll see how easy it is to make restaurant-quality Egg Drop Soup at home.

See also: Quick Chicken and Peanut Stir-Fry

Ingredients Needed

Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need:

• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ¼ cup cold water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh corn kernels (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations:

• You can use vegetable or mushroom broth for a vegetarian version.
• Add tofu or mushrooms for more texture.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more soy sauce or white pepper if needed.

Preparation Steps

Preparing the Ingredients

Before we start cooking, let’s prep our ingredients. This should take around 10 minutes.

1. Eggs: Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat them lightly with a fork.
2. Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with ¼ cup of cold water until fully dissolved.
3. Aromatics: Chop the green onions finely and set aside.

Prepping the Wok

1. Ensure your wok is clean and dry. A 10 to 12-inch wok works best for this recipe.
2. Preheat your wok on medium heat before adding any liquid. This ensures even cooking and better heat distribution.

Cooking Instructions for Chinese Egg Drop Soup

Let’s dive into the cooking process. This should take approximately 15-20 minutes.

1. Step 1: Pour the chicken broth into the preheated wok and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Step 2: Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat to medium and add the salt, white pepper, sesame oil, and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
3. Step 3: Slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the boiling broth while stirring constantly. This will help thicken the soup slightly.
4. Step 4: After the broth has thickened, turn off the heat. Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the broth in a steady stream. Stir with a fork or chopsticks in a circular motion to create the characteristic egg ribbons.
5. Step 5: Add the fresh corn kernels (if using) and chopped green onions to the soup. Stir gently to combine.

Essential Note: Ensure to stir gently after adding the eggs to avoid breaking the ribbons. This way, you’ll maintain the soup’s delicate texture.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chinese Egg Drop Soup

To achieve perfect results every time, here are some guidelines:

• Pouring Eggs: For fine egg ribbons, pour the eggs slowly from a height of about one foot.
• Consistent Stirring: Stir the broth continuously while adding the cornstarch slurry to avoid clumping.
• Right Timing: Turn off the heat before adding eggs; residual heat will cook them perfectly without overcooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Boiling Eggs: Adding eggs while the broth is still boiling will result in overcooked and rubbery eggs.
• Lumpy Broth: Not dissolving the cornstarch properly can cause lumps; ensure a smooth slurry.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese Egg Drop Soup pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed rice
• Dumplings
• Spring rolls

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Storing: Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to avoid separating the components.

The Bottom Line

Making Chinese Egg Drop Soup at home is a rewarding and easy experience. The simplicity of the ingredients and the quick cooking time make this a go-to recipe for a cozy, nutritious meal.

I would like you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments. I’m confident that you’ll love this delightful and authentic dish as much as I do!

For more delicious wok pan recipes, stay connected with Kit Yum.

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