Coconut Shrimp Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 500g (1 lb) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 30ml (2 tbsp) vegetable oil
- 200g (1 large) onion, finely chopped
- 10g (2 cloves) garlic, minced
- 10g (1 inch) fresh ginger, grated
- 400ml (14 oz) coconut milk
- 500ml (2 cups) chicken or vegetable broth
- 200g (1 cup) mushrooms, sliced
- 100g (1 cup) bell pepper, sliced
- 50g (1/4 cup) fish sauce
- 30ml (2 tbsp) lime juice
- 5g (1 tsp) sugar
- 1 stalk lemongrass, trimmed and bruised
- 5g (1 tsp) red curry paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
- Optional: sliced fresh chili for heat
Introduction
Nothing quite soothes the soul like a warm, rich, and fragrant Coconut Shrimp Soup. This dish encapsulates tropical delight with every spoonful, combining the luscious creaminess of coconut milk with the savory sweetness of shrimp. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience inspired by the flavors of Southeast Asia, designed to transport you to an exotic culinary paradise. Whether you’re hosting an indulgent dinner or seeking a personal moment of delight, this Coconut Shrimp Soup promises to delight all your senses.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Ladle
- Zester or Grater
- Stove
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 45 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a large pot over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and red curry paste, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Develop the Flavors
Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to mix with the aromatic base. Add the chicken or vegetable broth, mushrooms, bell pepper, lemongrass, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Simmer and Infuse
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook for 15 minutes, giving time for the lemongrass to infuse its subtle citrus notes and the vegetables to soften. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the pot and cook until they are opaque and pink, approximately 3-4 minutes. Keep an eye out to avoid overcooking, as this can make the shrimp tough.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the lemongrass stalk from the pot. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped coriander and, if desired, fresh chili slices for extra heat. Serve steaming hot for the best experience.
Conclusion
There you have it – a delightful Coconut Shrimp Soup that brings the taste of the tropics to your table. Each spoonful carries layers of flavor, from the smooth coconut base to the succulent shrimp, enhanced by aromatic herbs. This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a celebration of culinary artistry. Enjoy the soothing comfort this soup brings, and remember, it’s the perfect remedy to whisk you away to a tropical haven, even if just for a meal.
