When it comes to Chinese cuisine, there are few dishes that can match the popularity and ubiquity of egg drop soup. This simple yet flavorful broth-based soup has been a staple of Chinese cuisine for centuries, and it has now made its way into the menus of many American Chinese restaurants, including Panda Express.
Table of Contents
What is Egg Drop Soup?
Egg drop soup is a Chinese soup that typically consists of chicken broth, eggs, and cornstarch. Some variations may include other ingredients, such as scallions, ginger, tofu, or mushrooms, but the basic recipe remains the same.
The soup is called egg drop because the eggs are beaten and then dropped into the broth in a thin stream, creating thin ribbons or strands of cooked egg that float in the soup. The cornstarch acts as a thickener, giving the soup a slightly thicker consistency.
What is Panda Express?
Panda Express is a fast-food restaurant chain that specializes in American Chinese cuisine. The chain was founded in 1983 in Glendale, California, and has since expanded to over 2,000 locations worldwide.
One of the most popular dishes at Panda Express is their egg drop soup, which is made according to the traditional Chinese recipe with chicken broth, eggs, and cornstarch. The soup is served hot and is a great appetizer or side dish to accompany a main course of noodles, rice, or stir-fry.
How is Egg Drop Soup Panda Express Made?
The recipe for egg drop soup at Panda Express is relatively simple and straightforward. Here are the ingredients and steps:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and white pepper to taste
- Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pot or saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour the egg mixture into the soup, stirring gently to create thin strands of cooked egg.
- Simmer the soup for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
What Do People Say About Egg Drop Soup Panda Express?
Opinions about Egg Drop Soup Panda Express are generally positive. Many customers praise the soup for its comforting and familiar taste, as well as its affordability and convenience. Some people also appreciate the fact that the soup is relatively low in calories and can be a healthy choice for a fast-food meal.
However, some customers have criticized the soup for being too bland or lacking in flavor, and some have expressed concerns about the quality of the ingredients or the cooking process. It is important to note that taste preferences can vary widely, and what one person finds delicious, another might find unappealing.
Nutrition Facts
Here are the nutrition facts for a serving (8 oz) of Egg Drop Soup Panda Express, according to the official website:
| Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbohydrates | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70 | 4g | 1g | 80mg | 590mg | 4g | 0g | 1g | 4g |
Overall, Egg Drop Soup Panda Express can be a healthy and satisfying option for a fast-food meal, especially when combined with other dishes that provide a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables.
