Are you looking for a satisfying and healthy soup that won't wreck your diet? Look no further than egg drop soup! With only 50 calories per cup, this soup is a great way to fill up without filling out.

Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, egg drop soup is a classic Chinese dish that has been enjoyed for centuries.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about egg drop soup, including its nutritional value, health benefits, and tips for customization. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to this tasty soup, we've got you covered.

What is Egg Drop Soup?

Egg drop soup is a simple and savory soup that is made by whisking eggs into a hot and flavorful broth. The broth can be made from chicken or vegetable stock, and is typically seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other traditional Chinese spices. The eggs are added to the hot broth in a thin, steady stream, which cooks them instantly and creates thin and delicate ribbons of egg throughout the soup. The result is a light and flavorful soup that is both filling and nourishing.

What are the Ingredients for Egg Drop Soup?

To make egg drop soup, you will need a few basic ingredients:

• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock
• 3 eggs
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
• 2 cloves of minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients can be easily found at any grocery store and are inexpensive to purchase. Feel free to adjust the amount of seasoning based on your personal preference.

How is Egg Drop Soup Prepared?

Making egg drop soup is quick and easy! Here's how:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable stock to a boil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Once the stock is boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the soy sauce, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the soup, stirring constantly with a fork or whisk.
5. Continue to cook the soup for 1-2 minutes, or until the egg is fully cooked and the soup is hot.
6. Season the soup with additional salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

This recipe yields about 4 cups of soup, which is enough for 2-3 servings. The soup can be easily reheated on the stove or in the microwave.

How Many Calories are in 1 Cup of Egg Drop Soup?

One cup of egg drop soup contains approximately 50 calories. This makes it a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake but still want a filling and satisfying meal. Additionally, each cup of soup contains 2 grams of fat, 4 grams of protein, and 4 grams of carbohydrates. It is also a good source of vitamin A and iron.

Benefits of Eating Egg Drop Soup

Egg drop soup is not only delicious, but it is also packed with numerous health benefits. Here are just a few reasons why you should add egg drop soup to your regular meal rotation:

• Low in calories: As mentioned earlier, egg drop soup is very low in calories, making it a great option for those who are looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet.
• High in protein: Each cup of egg drop soup contains 4 grams of protein, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Egg drop soup is a good source of vitamin A, iron, and other essential vitamins and nutrients.
• Easy to digest: Because egg drop soup is made from simple and natural ingredients, it is easy for your body to digest and can help to soothe an upset stomach.

Overall, egg drop soup is a healthy and convenient meal option that is perfect for busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to cook.

Nutritional Value of Egg Drop Soup

Here's a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content of one cup of egg drop soup:

• calories: 50
• Total fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 111mg
• Sodium: 912mg
• Total carbohydrates: 4g
• Dietary fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Vitamin A: 16% of the RDI
• Iron: 4% of the RDI

This information is based on calculations using the USDA nutrient database. Keep in mind that the nutritional content of egg drop soup may vary slightly based on the ingredients used and the method of preparation.

Ways to Customize Egg Drop Soup

One of the best things about egg drop soup is how easy it is to customize to your tastes. Here are a few ideas for ways to add some variety and flavor to your soup:

• Add some veggies: Try adding some diced carrots, mushrooms, or green onions to your soup for a little extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like your soup with a little kick, add some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or Szechuan peppercorns to the broth.
• Add some protein: If you want to make your soup a little heartier, try adding some shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, or tofu to the soup.
• Make it vegetarian: If you're vegetarian, you can easily make egg drop soup without the chicken stock. Just use vegetable stock instead and omit the meat.

The Best Time to Eat Egg Drop Soup

Egg drop soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. Here are a few ideas for when to serve this tasty soup:

• As an appetizer: Egg drop soup is a great way to whet your appetite before a meal. Serve it in small bowls or cups to get your guests ready for the main course.
• As a side dish: Pair your soup with your favorite Chinese dish for a filling and delicious meal.
• As a light meal: If you're in the mood for something light and healthy, a bowl of egg drop soup and some steamed veggies is a perfect option.
• As a late-night snack: If you're craving something savory and comforting before bed, egg drop soup is a great choice. It won't leave you feeling overstuffed or bloated, but it will help satisfy your hunger.

Egg Drop Soup as Appetizer or Main Dish

One of the great things about egg drop soup is how versatile it is. Depending on your appetite and the occasion, you can serve it as an appetizer or a main dish. As an appetizer, egg drop soup is a great way to kick off a Chinese meal. Its light and savory flavor makes it the perfect palate cleanser and sets the stage for the rest of the meal. As a main dish, egg drop soup can be paired with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete and healthy meal. Add some protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it even more filling.

Other Egg-Based Soups to Try

If you love egg drop soup, here are a few other egg-based soups that you might want to try:

• Tomato Egg Drop Soup: This Chinese-inspired soup combines the flavors of tangy tomato and savory egg for a delicious and filling soup that's perfect for any time of day.
• Stracciatella Soup: This Italian soup is made with a rich and flavorful chicken broth, which is then thickened with beaten eggs and parmesan cheese. The result is a creamy and satisfying soup that's perfect for chilly evenings.
• Greek Egg and Lemon Soup: This classic Greek soup is made with a rich and tangy broth that's thickened with eggs and flavored with lemon and herbs. It's a light and refreshing soup that's perfect for spring and summer.