Egg drop soup is a popular Chinese dish that has been enjoyed in the United States since the 1920s. It is a simple soup made by whisking eggs into a hot broth. It is often served as a starter dish at Chinese restaurants, as well as a quick and easy meal at home. If you’re following a low-carb diet, you may be wondering if egg drop soup is a good choice for you. In this blog post, we’ll explore whether egg drop soup is high in carbs or not.
Egg Drop Soup Nutrition Facts
First, let’s take a look at the nutrition facts for a one-cup serving of Chinese restaurant-style egg drop soup:
– 65 calories
– 1.5g fat
– 2.8g protein
– 10.3g total carbs
– 9.4g net carbs
As you can see, egg drop soup does contain some carbs. However, it’s important to note that the amount of carbs can vary depending on the recipe you use.
Ingredients That Affect the Carb Count
The main ingredients in egg drop soup are chicken broth, eggs, and cornstarch. The chicken broth and eggs themselves do not contain many carbs, but the cornstarch can add a significant amount.
Cornstarch is often used as a thickener in egg drop soup to give it its signature texture. It’s important to note that just one tablespoon of cornstarch contains 7 grams of carbs. If you’re watching your carb intake, you may want to limit the amount of cornstarch you add to your soup.
Another ingredient that can affect the carb count is any added vegetables or meats. Some recipes include ingredients like carrots, peas, and chicken, which can all add carbs to the dish. If you’re following a low-carb diet, you may want to skip the added vegetables or meats and stick to a simple egg drop soup recipe.
Healthy Egg Drop Soup Recipe
Here’s a simple and healthy recipe for egg drop soup that only contains a few ingredients and is low in carbs:
Ingredients:
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 2 eggs
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs together.
3. Once the chicken broth is boiling, use a fork or whisk to stir the broth in a circular motion. This will create a whirlpool in the center of the pot.
4. Slowly pour the whisked eggs into the center of the pot, using a circular motion to stir the soup as you pour.
5. Add the green onions, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pot.
6. Simmer the soup for another 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked through.
This recipe only contains 5.7g of net carbs per serving, making it a great low-carb option. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding your own favorite vegetables or meats.
Conclusion
While egg drop soup does contain some carbs, the amount can vary depending on the recipe you use. If you’re following a low-carb diet, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients you add to your egg drop soup, especially cornstarch, vegetables, and meats. However, with a few tweaks to the recipe, you can make a healthy and low-carb egg drop soup that is just as delicious as the traditional version.
FAQ
Which is healthier egg drop soup or hot and sour soup?
Both egg drop soup and hot and sour soup can be delicious and satisfying meal options, but if you’re looking for the healthier option, egg drop soup may be your best bet. When comparing the nutritional values of both soups, egg drop soup is generally lower in calories, fat, and sodium.
One cup of egg drop soup contains approximately 70 calories, while a cup of hot and sour soup contains closer to 150 calories. This significant difference in calorie count is largely due to the higher fat content of hot and sour soup, which can include ingredients such as pork, tofu, and mushrooms. In contrast, egg drop soup is made primarily from chicken broth, eggs, and a few simple seasonings.
Additionally, hot and sour soup often contains higher levels of sodium than egg drop soup. Sodium is an essential mineral for our bodies, but excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. A typical serving of hot and sour soup may contain upwards of 800 milligrams of sodium, while egg drop soup typically contains closer to 400 milligrams.
While both soups can be healthy choices when consumed in moderation, egg drop soup may be a better option for those looking to watch their calorie and sodium intake. However, it’s worth noting that the specific nutritional values of each soup can vary depending on the recipe and cooking method used. As with any food, it’s important to consider the context of your overall diet and lifestyle when making choices about what to eat.
What Chinese food is best for diabetics?
When it comes to choosing Chinese food for diabetics, it’s important to look for dishes with a low glycemic index (GI) and balanced macronutrient profiles. High-GI foods cause blood sugar spikes, which can be especially problematic for those with diabetes. Additionally, meals that are high in carbohydrates and low in fiber can exacerbate blood sugar issues.
Fortunately, there are many Chinese dishes that fit the bill for diabetics. One great option is steamed chicken and broccoli. This dish is packed full of lean protein and non-starchy vegetables, offering a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s important to avoid heavy sauces that can be loaded with sugar and carbohydrates. Ordering the sauce on the side can help you control your intake.
Another good Chinese dish for diabetics is hot and sour soup. This flavorful soup is typically made with a variety of vegetables, including mushrooms and bamboo shoots, and seasoned with vinegar and spices. The high fiber content and low glycemic load make it a smart choice for those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
When ordering Chinese food, it’s important to keep an eye on portion sizes and avoid overloading on high-carb dishes like rice and noodles. Instead, look for dishes that are packed full of colorful vegetables and lean proteins. Additionally, it’s a good idea to ask about the preparation methods used for your dish. Fried or breaded foods can add extra carbohydrates and calories, so opting for grilled or steamed options is preferable.
The best Chinese food for diabetics is low in carbohydrates, high in fiber, and balanced in macronutrients. Steamed chicken and broccoli and hot and sour soup are two great options to consider when dining out. By making smart choices and being mindful of portion sizes, diabetics can still enjoy delicious and flavorful Chinese cuisine without negatively impacting their health.
