Spicy Coconut Shrimp Soup

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Description
This Spicy Coconut Shrimp Soup is a delicious fusion of creamy coconut milk, tender shrimp, and a medley of bold, spicy flavors. With a base of coconut milk, garlic, ginger, and a touch of chili, this soup has just the right amount of heat to balance its creamy richness. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy dinner or a flavorful appetizer.

Origin
The concept of coconut-based soups is popular in Southeast Asian cuisine, especially in Thai and Indonesian dishes. This recipe is inspired by Thai flavors, incorporating coconut milk, shrimp, and a balance of spices to create a rich and aromatic soup.

Ingredients with Quantities

For the Soup:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
  • 1-2 Thai red chilies, sliced (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional, for added umami)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (or honey, for sweetness)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1-2 tbsp red curry paste (adjust based on spice level)
  • 1 stalk lemongrass (optional, bruised to release flavor)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced green onions
  • Chili flakes or chopped red chili (optional, for extra heat)

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (for extra texture)
  • 1 cup spinach or bok choy (for added greens)
  • 1 tsp turmeric (for color and extra flavor)
  • ½ cup coconut cream (for extra richness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the soup base:
    In a large pot, heat the olive oil or coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced Thai chilies, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the liquids:
    Stir in the coconut milk, chicken or vegetable broth, and fish sauce (if using). Add the lime juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and red curry paste. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to combine all the flavors.
  3. Simmer and add flavorings:
    If you’re using lemongrass, add it to the pot at this stage and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to infuse the soup with its citrusy flavor. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can also add turmeric or additional curry paste at this point.
  4. Cook the shrimp:
    Once the soup is simmering and the flavors have melded, add the shrimp to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
  5. Finish the soup:
    Once the shrimp is cooked, remove the lemongrass stalk (if used). Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice, depending on your preference.
  6. Serve:
    Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, lime wedges, and additional chili flakes or chopped red chili for added heat.

Tips for Success

  • For a richer soup, add coconut cream instead of regular coconut milk, or use a combination of both.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilies and curry paste. If you prefer a milder soup, use half the amount of curry paste.
  • Make sure not to overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly and should be just tender to avoid becoming rubbery.
  • Serve with a side of jasmine rice or crusty bread to make the meal more filling.

Recommendations
Pair this soup with a side of steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a more complete meal. A cold, refreshing beverage like iced tea or coconut water can help balance the heat. If you’re in the mood for a more substantial dish, add some cooked vegetables, like bok choy, or noodles to the soup.

Nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings, approximate)
Calories: 330
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 850mg

This Spicy Coconut Shrimp Soup is a wonderfully aromatic and satisfying dish, perfect for those who love a bit of heat with their creamy coconut base. It’s packed with flavor, and the shrimp add a nice boost of protein, making it a balanced and delicious meal. Enjoy!

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