Tofu and Tomato Egg Drop Soup

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When hot, add neutral oil and heat for 15 seconds. Add the scallion whites and ginger, and sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Step 2

   Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable stock, and stir to combine. Cover, reduce heat to medium and cook for 5 to 6 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Step 3

   Add the tofu, ketchup, salt, sugar and sesame oil, and stir to combine. Taste and add more sugar and salt if needed. It should be slightly sweet, savory and a little tart. Increase heat to medium-high.

4. Step 4

   When it comes to the boil, very slowly trickle the beaten eggs into the soup, moving in a zigzag or circular motion, distributing it evenly all over the surface of the soup. You can leave the egg to set without stirring, and this will give you larger chunks of egg. If you like longer strands, run a chopstick or wooden spoon slowly through the eggs as they set. The eggs should only take 30 to 60 seconds to cook. Turn off the heat immediately.

5. Step 5

   Ladle soup into bowls and top with the green parts of the scallion. Eat immediately.