Egg Drop Soup from P.F. Chang's features delicate ribbons of silky egg swirling in a savory chicken broth, enhanced with fresh scallions and tender corn kernels, presenting a warm and comforting harmony of smooth and crisp textures.
Equipments
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Ladle
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Soup bowls
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 scallions
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt, to taste
- Soy sauce, to taste
Using fresh or frozen corn kernels will not affect the flavor significantly but can impact texture, with fresh corn providing a slightly crisper bite. Be sure to whisk the eggs thoroughly before slowly drizzling them into the hot chicken broth to create those signature silky ribbons. Cornstarch mixed with water acts as a thickener to achieve the soup's perfect consistency without making it too thick. Adjust the white pepper, sesame oil, salt, and soy sauce according to your personal taste to balance the savory and aromatic notes. When preparing Egg Drop Soup from P.F. Chang's copycat menu, your careful attention to these ingredient details ensures the most authentic and comforting result.
Instructions
- Finely slice scallions on a cutting board with a chef's knife.
- Whisk eggs in a mixing bowl until well blended.
- In another small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
- Pour chicken broth into a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Add corn kernels to the simmering broth.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup slightly.
- Season with white pepper, sesame oil, salt, and soy sauce to taste.
- While stirring the broth gently in one direction, slowly drizzle in the beaten eggs to create silky ribbons.
- Add sliced scallions and simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Ladle egg drop soup into soup bowls and serve hot.
Substitution
Egg Drop Soup from P.F. Chang's copycat menu captures the essence of the original with its silky egg ribbons and savory chicken broth. You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option without losing much flavor. Fresh corn kernels can be replaced with frozen or canned corn if fresh is unavailable, ensuring consistent texture and sweetness. If you don't have white pepper, ground black pepper can be used as an alternative, although it may slightly alter the soup's subtle spiciness. When whisking the eggs, ensure they are added slowly to avoid clumping and create those delicate ribbons characteristic of this soup.
Tips
Ensure the chicken broth simmers gently rather than boiling rapidly to prevent the eggs from becoming tough or rubbery. When adding the egg, drizzle it slowly while stirring the broth in one consistent direction to form delicate ribbons instead of clumps. Prepare the cornstarch slurry properly by dissolving it fully in cold water before adding to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, slightly thickened soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with soy sauce and salt gradually, as these ingredients can easily overpower the subtle flavors.
Nutritions
Egg Drop Soup from P.F. Chang's is a low-calorie dish rich in protein, primarily from the two large eggs whisked into the savory chicken broth. Corn kernels add dietary fiber and essential vitamins such as vitamin C and folate, enhancing the soup's nutritional profile. The use of scallions provides antioxidants and vitamin K, while sesame oil contributes healthy fats and a subtle nutty flavor. Your meal offers a balanced combination of lean protein, fiber, and micronutrients, making it a nutritious and comforting option.
Storage
Store your Egg Drop Soup in an airtight container and refrigerate immediately to preserve freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Consume within 2 days to maintain optimal flavor and texture, reheating gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the delicate egg ribbons. Avoid freezing, as the eggs can become rubbery and affect the soup's smooth consistency.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly without losing depth of flavor. Try adding tofu cubes or shredded cooked chicken for extra protein and texture. For a spicier variation, incorporate a dash of chili oil or fresh grated ginger during the simmering step. Adjust the thickness by increasing or decreasing cornstarch slurry, depending on your preferred soup consistency.
Allergies
Egg Drop Soup from P.F. Chang's contains eggs and chicken broth, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to poultry or egg proteins. The use of soy sauce introduces soy allergens, and sesame oil may cause reactions in those with sesame allergies. It's important to review all ingredients carefully and communicate your allergies to ensure the soup is safe for your consumption.
Why this recipe?
Egg Drop Soup at P.F. Chang's combines a silky broth with delicate ribbons of egg, creating a comforting and flavorful experience that delights many diners. The soup's perfect balance of savory chicken stock, ginger, and scallions enhances its rich texture, making it a popular menu item. You'll find making a copycat version rewarding for its simplicity and ability to capture the authentic taste and warmth of the original dish. Recreating this beloved soup at home offers a delicious, cost-effective way to enjoy a signature P.F. Chang's flavor anytime.