Egg Drop Soup Low Carb Recipe

Egg Drop Soup is one of those timeless comfort foods that blend simplicity, warmth, and flavors that dance on your palate. Originally from China, it’s often found in various forms on restaurant menus, from the tangy, silky varieties served in dim sum houses to the heartwarming versions that accompany main courses. It’s also a dish that many people enjoy when they’re feeling under the weather due to its light, soothing qualities. What makes it even more appealing, however, is how easy it is to make at home, especially when you have the right recipe.

Now, for those of us who are trying to lower our carb intake or just embrace a healthier, more balanced lifestyle, the traditional egg drop soup recipe, which often uses cornstarch or flour as a thickening agent, may not align with our dietary goals. But don’t worry! A low-carb version is not only possible, but it’s just as delicious-if not more. This recipe will allow you to enjoy the rich, silky broth and delicate ribbons of egg without the guilt. So, let’s dive into how you can recreate this classic dish with a low-carb twist that’ll have you coming back for seconds!

A low-carb egg drop soup is a delightful combination of rich, savory broth, perfectly seasoned to allow the smoothness of the eggs to shine through. The soup is light yet filling, packed with flavor, and can easily be adjusted to your taste preferences. Best of all, it’s quick to make with minimal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or when you just need a comforting bowl of something warm.

Ingredients Needed

To get that perfect low-carb egg drop soup, here’s a list of the essential ingredients you’ll need:

Chicken or Vegetable Broth – 4 cups (you can use homemade or store-bought, but ensure it’s low sodium if you’re watching your salt intake)
Eggs – 2 large (this is the star of the dish, providing that signature silky texture)
Ginger – 1 tablespoon, freshly grated (adds a zingy freshness to the broth)
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced (gives a rich, savory depth)
Soy Sauce – 1-2 tablespoons (for umami; you can substitute with coconut aminos for a gluten-free version)
Sesame Oil – 1 teaspoon (adds an aromatic, nutty fragrance)
Xanthan Gum – 1/2 teaspoon (used as a thickening agent instead of cornstarch, keeping the soup low-carb)
Scallions (Green Onions) – 1-2 stalks, chopped (for garnish and freshness)
Optional Add-ins: Spinach or Bok Choy for extra nutrients, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor

Cooking Instructions

This recipe is remarkably quick, and the whole process should take no more than 15 minutes from start to finish! Here’s how to do it:

Prepare The Broth
- In a medium pot, pour the chicken or vegetable broth.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger.
- Bring the broth to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add the soy sauce (or coconut aminos) and sesame oil to the broth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Thicken The Broth
- As the broth is simmering, slowly sprinkle in the xanthan gum, stirring constantly to prevent clumping. It will thicken the broth without adding any carbs.
Add The Eggs
- Crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk them lightly.
- Once the broth is simmering (but not boiling), slowly pour the beaten eggs into the soup while gently stirring in a circular motion. The eggs will cook instantly and form delicate ribbons throughout the broth.
Add Optional Veggies
- If you’re adding spinach, bok choy, or mushrooms, now is the time to toss them in. Stir them gently into the soup, and let them cook for a minute or two until tender.
Garnish And Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped scallions for a pop of color and flavor. Optionally, add a drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra layer of warmth.

And there you have it! A simple yet hearty low-carb egg drop soup ready to be devoured.

Ingredient Insights

Chicken or Vegetable Broth: This is the base of your soup and sets the tone for the flavor. If you want the richest taste, homemade broth is the way to go. It’s also a great way to control the ingredients, especially if you’re trying to avoid unnecessary preservatives or sodium. Bone broth is a fantastic option for extra nutrition, offering collagen and amino acids.
Eggs: Eggs bring the essential richness to the dish. The slow, methodical pouring of the beaten eggs creates those beautiful, silky ribbons that give the soup its signature texture. Eggs are an excellent low-carb source of protein, and in this soup, they add a comforting element that helps thicken the broth without the need for flour or starches.
Xanthan Gum: Xanthan gum is a low-carb alternative to the traditional starches used to thicken soups. It’s a polysaccharide that helps create a smooth, silky texture without the carbs. It’s perfect for keto and low-carb recipes!
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is packed with umami, the fifth basic taste. Just a splash adds a savory richness to the broth. If you’re trying to avoid gluten or have dietary restrictions, coconut aminos is a fantastic alternative that still delivers that depth of flavor.

Expert Tips

Don’t Overcook the Eggs: The beauty of egg drop soup is the delicate texture of the eggs. If you let them cook too long or at too high a temperature, they can turn rubbery. Stir gently and slowly pour the eggs into the simmering broth to keep them soft and silky.
Balance Your Seasonings: Egg drop soup is all about the broth, so make sure the seasoning is just right. Taste the broth before adding the eggs and adjust the soy sauce, sesame oil, or even a bit of salt to suit your palate.
Texture Variations: If you like a more textured soup, consider adding some shredded chicken, tofu cubes, or even low-carb noodles like zucchini noodles (zoodles) to make it more filling.
Control Thickness: If you want a slightly thicker soup, you can always add more xanthan gum. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so sprinkle it in gradually and stir as you go.

Recipe Variations

Egg drop soup is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to play with the ingredients and make it your own! Here are a few ideas:

Spicy Egg Drop Soup: Add a bit of chili paste or sriracha to the broth for a spicy kick. You can also top it with a sprinkle of chili flakes for added heat.
Mushroom Egg Drop Soup: Sauté some sliced mushrooms (shiitake or cremini work best) and add them to the soup for a deeper, earthy flavor.
Low-Carb Egg Drop Soup with Tofu: If you want to make your soup heartier, add small cubes of firm tofu to soak up the broth’s flavor while maintaining a low-carb count.
Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth, and replace the chicken with tofu or additional vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bok choy.

Final Words

Egg drop soup doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of attention, you can create a healthy, comforting, and low-carb meal that checks all the boxes for taste, texture, and nutrition. Whether you’re craving a light lunch, a quick snack, or a cozy dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can tweak it to your liking with different vegetables, proteins, or seasonings.

Egg Drop Soup Low Carb Recipe