Egg Drop Soup Pf Chang’s Recipe

Egg Drop Soup is a classic Chinese dish that’s beloved for its simplicity, warmth, and comforting qualities. The rich broth combined with delicate strands of beaten egg creates a silky, smooth texture that’s soothing for the soul. If you’ve ever been to P.F. Chang’s and tried their version of Egg Drop Soup, you know exactly how delicious it can be. The balance of flavors-salty, savory, with a hint of ginger and umami-makes this dish a perfect start to any meal.

This particular recipe is inspired by P.F. Chang’s version, known for its depth of flavor and luxurious texture. Whether you’re craving a hearty soup to warm you up on a chilly day, or you’re looking for a light, flavorful appetizer, this recipe will make you feel like you’re sitting in a cozy Chinese bistro. Let’s take a deeper look at how to make it at home!

Egg Drop Soup P.F. Chang’s Recipe

P.F. Chang’s Egg Drop Soup has a rich, savory base made from chicken broth and seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, and a touch of sesame oil. The real star, however, is the egg itself. It’s added slowly to the broth, resulting in smooth, silky ribbons that float delicately in the soup, giving it a soft, comforting texture.

Here’s how you can recreate the P.F. Chang’s experience right in your kitchen:

Ingredients Needed

To create this flavorful and creamy soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken broth – This forms the base of the soup and provides a hearty, savory foundation.
• 2 large eggs – Eggs are key to achieving the signature silky texture of the soup.
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce – For that salty umami flavor that balances the broth.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil – A few drops of this fragrant oil elevate the flavor and give it a slightly nutty taste.
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger – Grated or minced ginger adds a refreshing zest, cutting through the richness of the broth.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional) – This thickens the broth, making the soup a little heartier.
• Salt & pepper to taste – For seasoning, but go light on the salt since the soy sauce is already salty.
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper – Adds a gentle heat without overwhelming the dish.
• Chopped green onions (for garnish) – These provide a mild crunch and a burst of color.
• A few drops of chili oil (optional) – For a touch of heat and flavor at the end.

Cooking Instructions

Let’s break this down into easy-to-follow steps:

1. Prepare The Broth

   • In a large pot, pour in your chicken broth and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. You don’t want to boil it, as it can cause the broth to become too harsh in flavor. The goal here is to keep it warm and flavorful.

2. Add The Seasonings

   • Once the broth is simmering, add in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and freshly grated ginger. Stir gently to combine. Let this simmer for a minute or two to infuse the flavors together.

3. Create A Slurry (optional)

   • If you prefer a slightly thicker broth, mix your cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the broth, stirring constantly. This will give the soup a more velvety consistency.

4. Add The Eggs

   • Crack your eggs into a bowl and beat them lightly with a fork or whisk. Once the broth is simmering, slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the soup while gently stirring in a circular motion. This creates those signature silky strands of egg.

5. Season

   • After the eggs are added, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a bit of white pepper. Add a dash of chili oil for a subtle spicy kick, if desired.

6. Garnish

   • Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped green onions. Serve immediately while it’s piping hot.

Ingredient Insights

• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is the heart of this dish, and using a high-quality, low-sodium option allows you to control the saltiness of the soup. If you’re vegetarian, you can substitute with vegetable broth, but chicken broth does give that signature richness that’s hard to replicate.
• Sesame Oil: This small amount of oil plays a huge role in flavor. It has a distinct, nutty taste that adds a layer of complexity. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it!
• Ginger: Fresh ginger brightens up the soup, adding a sharp but refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the broth. It’s also known for its digestive properties, making this soup not only delicious but soothing on the stomach.
• White Pepper: White pepper is used here instead of black pepper to maintain the pale color of the soup. It has a more delicate heat, which is perfect for this dish, as it doesn’t overpower the other flavors.

Expert Tips

• Control the egg texture: The key to perfectly smooth egg ribbons is to pour the beaten eggs in slowly and steadily while gently stirring. You can even turn the heat off before adding the eggs if you want them to cook more slowly, ensuring a creamier result.
• Don’t over-season: The broth is already packed with flavor from the chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil, so be mindful when adding salt. Taste as you go, especially since the soy sauce provides some saltiness.
• Garnish smartly: The green onions not only add color but also a slight crunch that contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the soup. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also be a great addition if you want a little extra texture.
• Leftover soup: If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge. The egg will continue to cook and thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little water or broth when reheating to loosen it up.

Recipe Variations

Egg Drop Soup is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the eggs if you’re looking for a plant-based option. You can also add tofu for a more hearty, protein-packed soup.
• Spicy Egg Drop Soup: Add chili paste or chili flakes to spice things up. A touch of sriracha can give a nice, balanced heat that complements the dish’s rich flavors.
• Mushroom Egg Drop Soup: Toss in some sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button mushrooms work well) with the broth for an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the soy sauce and sesame oil.
• Seafood Twist: Add shrimp or crab meat to the broth for a seafood-inspired version of the soup.
• Broth Variations: If you prefer a lighter broth, you can opt for a dashi broth instead of chicken. It gives a more delicate, oceanic flavor.

Final Words

Egg Drop Soup is one of those dishes that feels timeless and comforting, yet there’s always room for personalization. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight meal or a quick appetizer for a dinner party, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and delicious. Its versatility makes it easy to play with ingredients, and it’s a great way to impress your family or guests with minimal effort.