Egg Drop Soup is a popular, comforting dish in many cuisines around the world, and in Vietnam, the variation Súp Trứng Gà Sốt Hành (Egg Drop Soup with Scallion Sauce) stands out for its unique and flavorful twist. Known for its silky smooth texture and aromatic flavor, this soup combines the simplicity of eggs with the fragrance of scallions, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty meal on a cool day or serving it as a light appetizer, Súp Trứng Gà Sốt Hành is a delightful Vietnamese soup that brings warmth and comfort to your table.

Origins and Popularity of Egg Drop Soup with Scallion Sauce (Súp Trứng Gà Sốt Hành)

Egg Drop Soup (Súp Trứng) has long been a staple in Chinese and Vietnamese cuisines. It is a dish that has been embraced by cultures for centuries due to its simplicity, versatility, and nourishing qualities. In Vietnamese cuisine, Súp Trứng Gà Sốt Hành (Egg Drop Soup with Scallion Sauce) incorporates the traditional egg drop soup method while elevating it with a delicious, aromatic scallion sauce. This variation adds a new level of fragrance and flavor, making it a standout dish.

Egg drop soup, in its simplest form, consists of beaten eggs poured into hot broth, creating silky ribbons of cooked egg. In Vietnam, it’s often made with chicken stock, and the addition of hành (scallions) introduces a fresh, aromatic flavor that elevates the dish. The mild flavor of the egg is beautifully complemented by the savory, slightly sweet taste of the scallion sauce, creating a well-balanced and flavorful soup.

The Nutritional Benefits of Egg Drop Soup with Scallion Sauce

Not only is Súp Trứng Gà Sốt Hành a delicious dish, but it also offers numerous nutritional benefits. The main ingredients—eggs, chicken broth, and scallions—provide an excellent combination of protein, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.

Benefits of Eggs in Egg Drop Soup:

1. High in Protein: Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall growth.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Eggs are rich in essential vitamins such as B vitamins (B12, riboflavin, folate) and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). They also contain important minerals like iron, phosphorus, and selenium.
3. Supports Eye Health: Eggs are an excellent source of lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that promote eye health and reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
4. Good for Heart Health: While eggs contain cholesterol, studies suggest that the cholesterol in eggs doesn’t significantly affect blood cholesterol levels for most people. The healthy fats in eggs may help improve heart health by raising good HDL cholesterol levels.

Benefits of Chicken Broth in Egg Drop Soup:

1. Rich in Collagen: Chicken broth, especially when made with bones, contains collagen, which supports joint health, improves skin elasticity, and strengthens hair and nails.
2. Supports Digestion: The gelatin in chicken broth is known to help heal the gut lining and promote better digestion.
3. Boosts Immunity: Chicken broth is often used as a natural remedy for colds and flu due to its soothing properties and the presence of amino acids like cysteine, which may help thin mucus and support the respiratory system.
4. Hydrating and Nourishing: The warmth of chicken broth makes it incredibly hydrating, especially during cold weather or illness, while providing nourishment to the body.

Benefits of Scallions (Hành) in Egg Drop Soup:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Scallions are packed with antioxidants like flavonoids and vitamin C, which help reduce inflammation, fight free radicals, and strengthen the immune system.
2. Supports Heart Health: Scallions contain allicin, a compound found in garlic, that can help lower cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health.
3. Promotes Digestion: Scallions are a good source of fiber, which supports healthy digestion and bowel movements. They also help detoxify the body by promoting liver health.
4. Low in Calories: Scallions are low in calories, making them a perfect addition to a balanced diet.

Together, the combination of eggs, chicken broth, and scallions creates a soup that is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It’s a great dish to enjoy any time you need a nourishing meal that’s both light and satisfying.

How to Make Egg Drop Soup with Scallion Sauce (Súp Trứng Gà Sốt Hành)

Making Súp Trứng Gà Sốt Hành is a simple process that can be done in under an hour. The soup is quick to prepare and can be customized to your taste preferences. Below is a step-by-step guide to preparing this delightful Vietnamese egg drop soup.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 4 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4-5 fresh scallions (green onions), chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the broth slightly)
• Garnishes: fresh cilantro, extra chopped scallions, or fried shallots

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth:
   • In a medium-sized pot, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Allow the broth to simmer for about 10-15 minutes to deepen the flavor. If you’re using store-bought broth, consider adding a bit of extra seasoning or a splash of soy sauce for richness.
   • If you’d like a thicker broth, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir this into the simmering broth. This will give the soup a slightly thicker consistency, which works well with the smooth texture of the eggs.
2. Prepare the Scallion Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped scallions and sauté them for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. This step infuses the oil with the sweet and savory flavor of the scallions.
   • If you like, you can also add a teaspoon of sesame oil to enhance the depth of flavor.
3. Prepare the Eggs:
   • In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them gently until the yolks and whites are fully combined. This will create a smooth texture when the eggs are dropped into the soup.
   • If you want to create thin, silky egg ribbons, you can whisk the eggs slightly more vigorously to incorporate some air, which will help create a lighter texture in the soup.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Once the broth is simmering, gently pour the beaten eggs into the soup in a thin stream, stirring the broth gently in one direction with a spoon or chopsticks. The eggs will cook almost instantly, forming silky ribbons in the broth.
   • Allow the soup to simmer for another 1-2 minutes to ensure that the eggs are fully cooked.
5. Season the Soup:
   • Add soy sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. If you prefer a sweeter soup, you can increase the amount of sugar slightly. For a more savory taste, add more soy sauce or salt.
   • Stir in the sautéed scallion sauce, including the oil, into the soup. The oil will give the soup a glossy finish and enrich the flavor of the broth.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, extra chopped scallions, or crispy fried shallots for an extra crunch.
   • Serve hot and enjoy the silky texture and aromatic flavor of this delicious Vietnamese soup.

Variations of Egg Drop Soup with Scallion Sauce

Súp Trứng Gà Sốt Hành is highly customizable based on your preferences and available ingredients. Here are some variations that you can try:

1. Spicy Egg Drop Soup: For a spicy kick, add a few sliced fresh chilies or a dash of chili oil to the broth. The heat from the chilies will contrast nicely with the creamy texture of the eggs and the fresh flavor of the scallions.
2. Tofu and Egg Drop Soup: Add cubes of soft tofu to the soup for an extra protein boost. The tofu will absorb the flavor of the broth and complement the eggs with its delicate texture.
3. Egg Drop Soup with Shrimp: For a seafood twist, add shrimp to the soup. The sweetness of the shrimp pairs beautifully with the savory broth and smooth egg ribbons.
4. Herb-Infused Egg Drop Soup: Add fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or dill to the soup for an added layer of flavor. The herbs can be stirred in at the end of cooking or used as a garnish.
5. Vegetable Egg Drop Soup: Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bok choy to the soup for a more substantial dish. The vegetables will add texture and freshness to the soup.

Conclusion

Súp Trứng Gà Sốt Hành (Egg Drop Soup with Scallion Sauce) is a delightful, nourishing, and comforting dish that embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. With its silky smooth texture, fragrant broth, and delicious combination of eggs and scallions, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer or a wholesome main dish, Súp Trứng Gà Sốt Hành is a versatile and easy-to-make soup that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. Its simplicity and flexibility make it a favorite in many Vietnamese households, and with its nutritional benefits, it’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also good for you.