Egg Drop Ramen

Egg Drop Ramen is a delightful twist on the classic ramen soup that combines the comforting qualities of traditional broth with the silky richness of egg. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Using low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, you can create a lighter version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish can be on your table in under 15 minutes. Gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the world of Egg Drop Ramen!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Egg Drop Ramen is a dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. The simplicity of the ingredients means that it can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. The warm, soothing broth and the delicate strands of ramen noodles create a comforting bowl that can be customized with various toppings. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch, a late-night snack, or a hearty dinner, Egg Drop Ramen fits the bill. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables or proteins you have on hand.

What You’ll Need

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter option
• 1 package plain ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce, plus more to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)

Must-Have Equipment

• Medium-sized saucepan – for cooking the broth and noodles.
• Whisk or fork – to beat the egg.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in your ingredients.
• Serving bowls – to present your delicious Egg Drop Ramen.

Stepwise Method: Egg Drop Ramen

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Start by pouring 2 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth into a medium-sized saucepan. Bring the broth to a gentle boil over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Once the broth is boiling, add the plain ramen noodles. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes, until the noodles are tender yet still chewy.

Step 3: Beat the Egg

While the noodles are cooking, lightly beat the egg in a small bowl with a whisk or fork until well combined.

Step 4: Add the Egg

When the noodles are almost done, reduce the heat to low. Slowly drizzle the beaten egg into the broth while stirring gently with a fork. This will create delicate strands of egg, giving you that classic egg drop effect.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Add 1 teaspoon of soy sauce to the soup, stirring to combine. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the Egg Drop Ramen into serving bowls. If desired, sprinkle the top with chopped chives for an added touch of flavor and color.

Variations for Dietary Needs

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based toppings.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular ramen noodles with gluten-free ramen or rice noodles.
• Spicy: Add a few drops of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Protein-Packed: Top with cooked chicken, tofu, or edamame for added protein.

Errors to Dodge

• Overcooking the Noodles: Be sure to keep an eye on the noodles, as overcooked ramen can become mushy.
• Adding Egg Too Quickly: Drizzle the egg slowly into the broth to ensure it cooks properly and forms strands.
• Neglecting the Broth Quality: A good quality broth can make or break your Egg Drop Ramen, so choose wisely.
• Too Much Soy Sauce: Start with a small amount; you can always add more later, but it’s hard to fix an overly salty broth.

Best Ways to Store

Egg Drop Ramen is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here are some tips for storing:

• Refrigerate: Place the ramen in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so on low heat to avoid overcooking the noodles and egg.
• Broth Separation: The broth may separate when stored; simply stir it back together when reheating.

FAQ

Can I use any type of ramen noodles?

Yes, you can use any type of plain ramen noodles. Just be sure to discard the seasoning packet that comes with them for this recipe.

Can I make this Egg Drop Ramen vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I add more flavor to the broth?

You can enhance the flavor by adding garlic, ginger, or green onions while the broth simmers. A splash of sesame oil can also add a lovely aroma.

Is Egg Drop Ramen suitable for meal prep?

While the ingredients can be prepped ahead of time, the dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the texture of the noodles and egg. You can prepare the broth and noodles separately in advance and combine them when ready to eat.

Keep Cooking

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for more comforting recipes
• Pinch of Yum for easy weeknight meals
• Minimalist Baker for simple and delicious recipes
• Serious Eats for in-depth cooking techniques

The Takeaway

Egg Drop Ramen is an incredibly versatile and satisfying dish that can be whipped up in no time. With its warm broth and silky egg, it’s a comforting meal that can easily adapt to your personal tastes or dietary needs. Whether you keep it simple or dress it up with added toppings, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. The next time you find yourself in need of a quick and delicious meal, remember this Egg Drop Ramen recipe, and enjoy the delightful flavors it brings to your table.