ancient dish - Egg Drop Soup
China
Ancient dish: Egg Drop Soup
Description: Egg drop soup is a light and comforting Chinese dish made by gently pouring beaten eggs into hot, seasoned broth, creating delicate ribbons or “flowers” of cooked egg. The broth is typically flavoured with ingredients like ginger, garlic, white pepper, and spring onions, and may be slightly thickened with cornstarch for a silky texture. Simple yet satisfying, the soup often includes optional additions such as tofu, peas, or corn for extra flavour and nutrition
Place of origin: China
Location: China is located in East Asia and is the world’s third-largest country by land area. It shares borders with 14 countries, including Russia, India, Mongolia, and Vietnam, making it one of the most geographically connected nations. To the east, China is bounded by the East China Sea, Yellow Sea, and South China Sea, giving it a long and economically vital coastline. The country spans a vast and diverse landscape, from the Gobi Desert and the Tibetan Plateau in the west to fertile river valleys and bustling cities in the east. Positioned at the heart of Asia, China has played a central role in regional trade, culture, and history for thousands of years.
Typical ingredients: Chicken stock, corn starch, ginger, garlic, eggs, toasted sesame oil, and green onions
Associated cuisine: Chinese
Course: Anytime
Egg drop soup ancient history: The ancient history of egg drop soup dates back to early Chinese culinary traditions, where simple, nourishing broths were a staple in everyday meals. Known in Chinese as “dàn huā tāng” (蛋花汤), meaning “egg flower soup,” the dish is believed to have originated during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE) or even earlier. It was valued for its ease of preparation, requiring minimal ingredients—typically just a light, clear broth and beaten eggs poured in slowly to create delicate, ribbon-like strands. This technique reflected the Chinese culinary focus on balance, texture, and visual appeal. Over time, regional variations developed, incorporating ingredients like scallions, tofu, or cornstarch for thickening. Despite its simplicity, egg drop soup has endured for centuries as a comforting, versatile dish in Chinese cuisine.
