Tomato Egg Drop Soup
Tomato egg drop soup is a comforting and flavorful dish made with fresh tomatoes, silky egg ribbons, and simple seasonings. It’s a quick, easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a warm appetizer.
Tomato egg drop soup has always been one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with flavor—perfect for when you need something quick, yet satisfying. I remember the first time I tried this soup; I was skeptical about how just a few ingredients could create something so delicious. But after one spoonful, I was hooked, and it quickly became a staple in my weekly meal rotation.
What I love most about tomato egg drop soup is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a comforting dinner on a chilly night, this recipe ticks all the boxes. The fresh tomatoes give it a natural sweetness, while the egg ribbons add a velvety texture that makes every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even on my busiest days, I can whip it up in under 20 minutes.
For me, this soup is more than just a meal—it’s comfort food that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings at home. It’s also a recipe I love to share with friends, especially those who think cooking is too complicated. Once they see how simple and rewarding it is to make tomato egg drop soup, they’re usually inspired to spend more time in the kitchen. If you’ve never tried it before, I can’t wait for you to experience how something so basic can be so incredibly flavorful!
Items Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make tomato egg drop soup:
- Avocado oil: Adds a mild, healthy fat that is perfect for sautéing without overpowering the flavor of the soup.
- Garlic: Enhances the soup with its aromatic depth and savory richness.
- Ginger: Offers a warm, zesty kick that complements the other ingredients and adds a fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): Provide a rich, tangy base for the soup, giving it a burst of natural sweetness and acidity.
- Chicken broth: Adds a savory, umami flavor that deepens the soup’s taste and gives it a rich, comforting feel.
- Water or more chicken broth: Adjusts the soup’s consistency to your desired thickness without altering the flavor too much.
- Eggs: Create silky, delicate ribbons in the soup that add texture and richness.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch adds just the right amount of heat, giving the soup an extra layer of flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the soup and balancing the ingredients.
Tools you’ll need
Before starting the recipe, you’ll want to have all of your kitchen essentials ready. I recommend having the following items:
Ways To Customize
Here are some easy ways to customize the tomato egg drop soup:
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra veggies. They’ll cook quickly and add nutritional value to the soup.
- Use Different Proteins: If you’re not a fan of eggs, you can replace them with shredded chicken, tofu, or even shrimp for added protein.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the heat level by adding more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick.
- Swap Broth: For a richer flavor, you can substitute chicken broth with beef or vegetable broth depending on your preference or dietary restrictions.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil, cilantro, or parsley to elevate the flavor and give it a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a little coconut milk or heavy cream at the end to make the soup creamier and add a smooth texture.
- Change the Tomatoes: For a twist, try using roasted tomatoes or fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below.
How To Make It
Heat the avocado oil in a pot over medium heat.
Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Add the tomatoes, broth, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Reduce the heat to low, then, while whisking, slowly pour in the beaten eggs. Add the red pepper flakes, if using, and season to taste with salt and black pepper.
Remove from the heat and serve.
Note
Whisk the eggs slowly and steadily while pouring them into the hot broth. This ensures the eggs form delicate, silky ribbons rather than clumping together, creating the smooth texture that makes this soup so comforting.
Storage
To store tomato egg drop soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the eggs from becoming too rubbery. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, you can add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to bring it to a boil, as the eggs may lose their smooth texture. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until it’s heated through.
Helpful Hints
Pro tip: Egg Texture
To maintain the delicate texture of the eggs, leave them out when storing leftovers and add fresh eggs when reheating. This keeps the soup’s texture light and silky.
Here are some helpful hints for making tomato egg drop soup:
- Whisk Slowly: When pouring in the beaten eggs, do so slowly while whisking constantly to achieve the delicate, silky ribbons of egg that make this soup so special.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup becomes too thick while cooling, add a little more chicken broth or water to bring it back to the desired consistency.
- Fresh Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger provide the best flavor, so avoid using pre-minced versions if possible.
- Customize the Spice: If you like it spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to enhance the heat.
- Keep an Eye on the Heat: Once you add the eggs, reduce the heat to low immediately to avoid scrambling the eggs and to ensure smooth ribbons.
- Season at the End: Taste the soup before adding salt and pepper to make sure the flavors are balanced, especially since the broth might already contain salt.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato egg drop soup can be served as a light yet satisfying appetizer before a main meal. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from Asian-inspired meals to comfort food classics. For a well-rounded dinner, consider serving it alongside a plate of crispy spring rolls or vegetable dumplings. The warm, savory broth and silky egg ribbons provide a perfect balance to the crunchy, flavorful bites of these appetizers.
If you’re looking to make this soup the centerpiece of a meal, try pairing it with a simple side salad or some steamed rice. The freshness of a lightly dressed salad with ingredients like cucumber, carrots, and leafy greens complements the rich, tangy flavor of the soup. A side of jasmine rice can help absorb the broth, creating a more filling meal. Both options will add variety to the textures and flavors, making the meal feel more complete.
For a richer touch, serve the soup with a side of freshly baked bread or crusty baguette slices. The bread is perfect for dipping into the broth, soaking up all the delicious flavors. You could also top the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions to add a burst of freshness. Adding a drizzle of sesame oil or a few drops of soy sauce can enhance the soup’s umami flavor, making it even more comforting and satisfying.
FAQs
Recipe
Tomato Egg Drop Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 10 ounces diced tomatoes canned
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water or more chicken broth
- 2 large eggs beaten
- Pinch red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the avocado oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the tomatoes, broth, and ginger. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, then, while whisking, slowly pour in the beaten eggs.
- Add the red pepper flakes, if using, and season to taste with salt and black pepper.
- Remove from the heat and serve.
Accidentally added steak seasoning instead of black pepper it was a really good addition. As well as msg