Consommé is a clear soup. The flavour combinations are endless, but the secret is to simmer it gently and to stir often in order for the impurities to come to the surface of the soup. Traditionally, the soup is then cleared using egg whites. As the egg whites and the proteins within them heat, they form a raft (congealed sort of a lid) at the top of the soup, which catches all the impurities. The soup is then carefully strained and ready to serve.