This Egg Drop Ramen Soup is a cozy bowl of joy! With soft, slurpy noodles and a silky egg, it’s perfect for any chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather.
Honestly, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 🌟 I love how quick it is—just cook the noodles, drop in an egg to swirl, and you’ve got a comforting meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Instant Ramen Noodles: These are the quickest option for a comforting meal. If you want a healthier alternative, consider whole wheat or rice noodles. Just adjust cooking time to match the noodle type.
Broth: Chicken broth gives a rich flavor, but vegetable broth works well for a lighter option. You can also make a homemade broth if you have the time, which adds freshness.
Egg: A large egg is perfect for creating those lovely ribbons. If you’re vegan, you can use silken tofu blended until smooth for a similar texture.
Soy Sauce: This adds depth of flavor. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. I also enjoy adding a dash of fish sauce for extra umami flavor!
How Do I Achieve Silky Egg Ribbons?
Creating those beautiful egg ribbons is slightly tricky but fun! Here’s how to do it:
- Beat the egg lightly in a bowl before adding it to the soup.
- Once your broth is boiling, slowly pour the egg in a thin stream. This helps form those delicate ribbons.
- Stir gently in one direction while pouring. It’s important to keep the broth moving so the egg cooks instantly and creates silky strands.
- Cook for just 1-2 more minutes to ensure it’s fully set—then you’re ready to enjoy!
Remember to go slow and steady; it’s all about patience! 🌟
Delicious Egg Drop Ramen Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package instant ramen noodles (discard seasoning packet or save for later)
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (scallions)
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- Lime wedges, for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 5 minutes preparing and cooking the ingredients, and then you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Broth:
Start by pouring the chicken or vegetable broth into a medium pot. Set the pot over medium heat and bring it to a gentle boil. This will take just a few minutes, so keep an eye on it!
2. Cook the Noodles:
Once the broth is boiling, add in your ramen noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, which is usually about 3 minutes. You want the noodles to be nice and soft!
3. Add Flavor:
After the noodles are cooked, stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil if you’re using it. This gives your soup a nice depth of flavor.
4. Beat the Egg:
In a small bowl, beat the egg lightly. This will make it easier to swirl into the soup later!
5. Create Silky Egg Ribbons:
Now comes the fun part! Slowly pour the beaten egg into the hot broth and noodles in a thin stream while gently stirring in one direction. This will create those beautiful, silky ribbons of egg. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the egg is fully cooked.
6. Final Seasoning:
Give the soup a taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. You can adjust based on how salty your broth is!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. If you like, add some lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the soup for a fresh zing. Enjoy your warm bowl of Egg Drop Ramen Soup!
Now you have a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect any time of the day. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Noodles for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While instant ramen noodles are the quickest option, you can substitute with fresh ramen, udon, or even rice noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the noodle type to ensure they don’t overcook.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Soup?
Yes! Feel free to throw in some chopped vegetables like spinach, bok choy, or mushrooms. Add them right after the noodles so they cook quickly but stay vibrant and fresh. You can also use frozen vegetables if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water to loosen it up, as the noodles will absorb the liquid when stored.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the egg for a vegan version. You can also add tofu for protein if you’d like—a delicious and satisfying alternative!