If you have ever dreamed of a bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Wonton Egg Drop Soup Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. This delightful dish brings together tender wontons and delicate egg ribbons swimming in a savory, fragrant broth, making each spoonful a perfect balance of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy appetizer, this soup’s simplicity and soul-soothing qualities are guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Wonton Egg Drop Soup Recipe requires a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in adding depth, texture, or a pop of color, ensuring the soup is as gorgeous as it is delicious.
- 8–10 frozen or fresh wontons: Choose pork, chicken, or veggie-filled for your preferred flavor and tender bites.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The comforting base that infuses the soup with rich, savory notes.
- 1 cup water: Lightens the broth just enough to keep the soup delicate and smooth.
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten): Whisked in slowly, these create the signature silky ribbons of egg drop soup.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional): Adds a gentle thickness to make the broth slightly velvety.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari): Introduces umami depth and a subtle saltiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil: A little goes a long way to bring a nutty aroma and richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper): Offers a gentle, warming spice that rounds out the flavors.
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced): Adds a fresh crunch and bright color to every spoonful.
- Chopped cilantro and chili oil for garnish (optional): Perfect for those who love a fresh herbal lift or a kick of heat.
How to Make Wonton Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Step 1: Bring Broth to a Boil
Start by combining the chicken broth and water in a medium pot and bring it to a gentle boil. This broth blend is the heart of your soup, so giving it a good heat jumpstart helps build layers of flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Cook the Wontons
Add your frozen or fresh wontons to the boiling broth and cook according to package directions, usually around 4–5 minutes. When the wontons float to the surface, you’ll know they’re perfectly cooked and bursting with tender deliciousness.
Step 3: Season the Soup
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, then stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. This seasoning combo lets the comforting broth shine, while adding those familiar savory and toasty notes that make this Wonton Egg Drop Soup Recipe so memorable.
Step 4: Create the Egg Ribbons
Slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs while stirring the soup in a slow circular motion. This technique forms the soup’s signature silky, delicate egg ribbons, elevating texture and visual appeal at once. It’s always a joy to watch those ribbons swirl and dance in the broth!
Step 5: Thicken the Broth (Optional)
If you prefer a heartier soup, stir in the cornstarch slurry and allow it to simmer for 1–2 minutes. This step thickens the broth slightly, making it just the right amount of velvety without losing its comforting lightness.
Step 6: Add Green Onions and Adjust Seasoning
Stir in the thinly sliced green onions and taste the soup, adjusting the seasoning if needed. These onions add a burst of freshness and a gentle crunch that perfectly complements the silky texture of the eggs and the tender wontons.
How to Serve Wonton Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle chopped cilantro over your soup for a fresh, herbal brightness. A drizzle of chili oil adds an exciting kick of heat and color. These garnishes not only enhance flavor but also create an inviting presentation that makes you want to dive right in.
Side Dishes
This Wonton Egg Drop Soup Recipe shines wonderfully alongside simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or a crunchy Asian slaw. These options balance the warm, broth-based soup with complementary textures and flavors to round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining or just a little extra fun at home, serve the soup in pretty bowls with vibrant garnishes arranged artfully on top. You can even float thinly sliced baby spinach or napa cabbage leaves into the broth before serving for added color and nutrients, making the soup look as lively as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The wontons remain tender but will soak up some broth, so it’s best enjoyed within a day or two for the freshest taste and texture.
Freezing
This soup is best enjoyed fresh, and freezing is not ideal as the delicate egg ribbons and wontons may change texture. If you do freeze it, expect some loss of quality. Instead, consider freezing wontons separately and making the egg drop soup fresh when ready.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and preserve the silky egg ribbons. Avoid boiling to keep the eggs tender. A quick warm will bring the comforting flavors back to life without compromising texture.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian-friendly option and still delivers plenty of rich, savory flavor in this Wonton Egg Drop Soup Recipe.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To keep it gluten-free, choose gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and make sure your wontons are made with gluten-free wrappers. This way, you enjoy all the deliciousness without worry.
Can I add extra vegetables to the soup?
Yes! Baby spinach, napa cabbage, or even shredded carrots are fantastic add-ins that boost nutrition and color, making your bowl even more inviting and wholesome.
What type of wontons work best?
Frozen store-bought wontons offer convenience, while homemade ones add a personal touch and unique flavors. Both options are delicious, so use whichever fits your time and mood.
Is this soup spicy?
The base recipe is mild and soothing, but you can easily add chili oil or fresh chili slices if you prefer some heat. It’s all about tailoring the warmth to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Wonton Egg Drop Soup Recipe is a true culinary gem, blending simple ingredients into a bowl of pure comfort and tasty joy. It’s quick to make but leaves a lasting impression, whether for a cozy night in or sharing with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and discover your new go-to soup for any occasion!
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Wonton Egg Drop Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Wonton Egg Drop Soup recipe combines delicate wontons with silky ribbons of egg in a flavorful chicken broth, creating a comforting and easy-to-make Asian-inspired soup perfect for a quick meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper)
Wontons and Eggs
- 8–10 frozen or fresh wontons (pork, chicken, or veggie)
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
Thickening (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Garnishes
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
- Chili oil (optional)
Instructions
- Bring Broth to Boil: In a medium pot, combine the chicken broth and water and bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Wontons: Add the wontons to the boiling broth and cook according to package instructions, usually 4–5 minutes, until they float to the surface and are fully cooked through.
- Simmer and Season: Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and ground white pepper to flavor the soup base evenly.
- Create Egg Ribbons: While stirring the soup slowly in a circular motion, gradually drizzle the lightly beaten eggs into the broth. This technique forms silky, delicate egg ribbons throughout the soup.
- Thicken Soup (Optional): If you prefer a slightly thicker soup, stir in the cornstarch slurry and allow the soup to simmer for 1–2 more minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Green Onions and Adjust Seasoning: Stir in the thinly sliced green onions, taste the soup, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro and a drizzle of chili oil if desired for added freshness and spice.
Notes
- Use store-bought wontons for a quick version or homemade ones for added personal touch and flavor.
- Add baby spinach or napa cabbage for extra greens and nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of chili oil and white pepper to control spice level according to your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and veggie wontons.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Soup, Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Chinese