Description
Stracciatella Soup, also known as Italian Egg Drop Soup, is a light and flavorful Italian broth-based soup featuring delicate strands of cooked egg and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. This simple yet elegant soup is quick to prepare, making it a perfect starter or a comforting meal. Enhanced with fresh spinach and aromatic herbs, it offers a warm, savory taste with a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 6 cups (48 oz) good chicken broth (homemade or high-quality store-bought, such as Swanson)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 sprig fresh thyme)
- Salt, to taste
- White pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups roughly chopped fresh spinach (optional)
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup (packed) freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano, plus extra for serving
- 1 tablespoon fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped, plus extra for serving (optional)
- Pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth: In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, bring the chicken broth and thyme to a gentle simmer. If using fresh thyme, remove the sprig once fragrant, typically after about 5 minutes. Taste and season the broth with salt and white pepper as needed to achieve the desired flavor.
- Add Spinach: If using, stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until just wilted, enhancing the soup with a subtle green freshness.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano, chopped parsley if desired, ⅛ teaspoon salt, a pinch of white pepper, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Egg Strands: Reduce the heat so the broth maintains a gentle simmer. While stirring the soup in a circular motion, slowly drizzle the egg mixture into the broth in a thin stream. This technique creates delicate egg shreds or strands. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the eggs are just set.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the soup at its best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using good-quality chicken broth greatly enhances the flavor of the soup.
- Fresh thyme provides a more delicate aroma compared to dried thyme.
- Spinach is optional but adds color and nutritional value.
- Stirring in a circular motion while pouring the eggs creates the signature egg ribbons in the soup.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to suit personal taste, especially with salt and pepper.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
