Keto Egg Drop Soup

Keto Egg Drop Soup is a classic comfort dish known for its light, silky texture and flavorful broth. But did you know that this beloved soup can also be a fantastic addition to your keto meal plan? Low in carbs, high in protein, and incredibly easy to make, Egg Drop Soup is the perfect option for anyone following a ketogenic diet. 

We’ll guide you through a keto-friendly version of this traditional Chinese soup, offering tips on how to keep it low-carb while packing in all the deliciousness you love. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen!

What is Egg Drop Soup?

Egg Drop Soup is a traditional Chinese soup that is popular for its simple yet comforting flavors. The name comes from the method of “dropping” beaten eggs into hot broth, creating delicate ribbons or swirls of cooked egg throughout the soup. 

Typically made with chicken broth, this dish is often seasoned with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil for added depth of flavor. It’s light, satisfying, and quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for those seeking a quick meal or appetizer.

For a complete keto-friendly meal, pair your Egg Drop Soup with some delicious sides. Cauliflower Au Gratin makes a fantastic companion with its savory, slightly crunchy texture, offering a low-carb alternative to traditional rice. 

For a heartier option, Keto Sesame Chicken adds rich, sesame-flavored depth to the meal, complementing the lightness of the soup with its tender chicken pieces. To keep things fresh, Zucchini Noodles tossed in a light garlic sauce provide a refreshing yet satisfying element that balances the soothing broth perfectly. These pairings together create a balanced, flavorful keto-friendly feast!

Egg Drop Soup Ingredients

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth – The base of the soup, provides a savory and rich flavor while being low in carbs. Using low-sodium broth helps control the saltiness, especially with the addition of soy sauce.

2 eggs – The star of the dish, the eggs are whisked and dropped into the hot broth, creating the signature silky ribbons of protein that give the soup its texture.

1 tbsp. of soy sauce – Adds depth of flavor and umami, giving the soup a slightly salty, savory note. Opt for tamari if you need a gluten-free alternative.

Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances the natural flavors of the soup. Adjust to your taste preferences after the broth has simmered.

½ tsp. grated ginger – Provides a warm, spicy kick that complements the chicken broth and helps brighten the overall flavor.

½ tsp. grated garlic – Adds a layer of savory complexity to the broth, enhancing its depth of flavor. Freshly grated garlic is recommended for a more robust taste.

1 tsp. sesame oil – Drizzled at the end, this fragrant oil adds a nutty richness and aromatic finish that ties all the flavors together.

¼ cup green onions – These are used as a garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness with their mild onion flavor. You can add more or less depending on preference.

¼ cup shredded chicken (precooked) – Adds extra protein and texture, making the soup more filling. A great way to use up leftover chicken.

How to Make Egg Drop Soup

Now that you have the ingredients, it’s time to make this delicious keto-friendly Egg Drop Soup! 

1. Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped. 
2. Grate the ginger and garlic, chop the green onions, and whisk the eggs in a small bowl. 
3. In a large pot, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth. Add the grated ginger, grated garlic, soy sauce, and shredded chicken. Stir everything together.
4. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil over.
5. While your broth is simmering, make sure your eggs are whisked and ready. The eggs need to be beaten thoroughly to create smooth ribbons when added to the soup.
6. Now comes the fun part! After the broth has simmered, slowly pour the whisked eggs into the hot broth in a thin, steady stream. 
7. As you pour, use a fork or chopsticks to stir the broth in a circular motion. This stirring motion will create those signature “egg ribbons” as the eggs cook instantly in the hot broth. Keep stirring until all the eggs have been added.
8. Once the eggs are fully cooked and floating in beautiful strands, let the soup simmer for another 2–3 minutes. Taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. 
9. Just before serving, drizzle sesame oil over the soup to add a nutty, fragrant flavor. Garnish with the green onions for a fresh, crunchy finish. 
10. Serve and Enjoy!

Tips for Making This Recipe

1. Use Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Since soy sauce adds a lot of salt to the dish, starting with low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth.

2. Whisk the Eggs Thoroughly: Be sure to whisk the eggs until fully beaten. This will help create smooth, consistent ribbons when they are poured into the broth. 

3. Slow and Steady with the Eggs: When adding the eggs to the hot broth, pour them slowly in a thin stream. Stir gently in a circular motion as you pour to get the signature egg ribbons. If you want thicker egg strands, pour slower and stir less vigorously.

4. Simmer, Don’t Boil: After adding the eggs, make sure the soup is simmering, not boiling. Boiling can make the eggs tough and rubbery instead of soft and silky. 

5. Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste the broth before adding more salt or soy sauce. You can always add more seasoning at the end, but too much salt early on can overpower the flavors.

6. Add Extra Protein: To make this a heartier meal, you can add more shredded chicken or even stir in some cooked shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for variety.

7. Keep the Garnish Fresh: Adding green onions and sesame oil just before serving ensures the garnish remains fresh and vibrant, giving the soup a bright pop of color and flavor.

8. For a Thicker Broth: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can stir in a slurry of 1 teaspoon of cornstarch (or a keto-friendly thickener like xanthan gum) mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water before adding the eggs. Stir until the broth thickens slightly, then add the eggs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes, you can make Egg Drop Soup ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. When reheating, warm it gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the eggs. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to add the eggs just before serving.

Can I use a different type of broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely! While chicken broth provides a rich flavor, you can use vegetable or beef broth if you prefer. Just be mindful of the sodium content, and adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain the right flavor balance.

Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?

Yes, you can use just egg whites if you prefer, but the soup may be a bit lighter and less rich since the yolk adds creaminess. Using only egg whites will still give you the signature ribbons, but the flavor may be milder.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Both options offer a similar umami flavor without the gluten.

Can I freeze Egg Drop Soup?

Freezing Egg Drop Soup isn’t recommended, as the texture of the eggs may change when thawed, becoming rubbery. It’s best to enjoy this soup fresh or store it in the fridge for a couple of days.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. For a vegan version, you can use a plant-based egg substitute and vegetable broth, although the texture will be slightly different.

Conclusion

Egg Drop Soup is not only a comforting classic but also an ideal dish for those following a keto-friendly lifestyle. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this soup offers a delicious, low-carb option that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. 

Whether you’re enjoying it as a light meal or pairing it with other keto-friendly dishes, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. The next time you’re craving something warm, satisfying, and keto-approved, give this Egg Drop Soup a try—it’s a true winner in both taste and ease!