Oh, the allure of a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening—it’s like a cozy blanket for the soul. This Creamy Coconut Curry Soup is a delightful concoction that dances on your taste buds, with its rich, velvety texture and the harmonious blend of spices and coconut. I stumbled upon this gem during a rainy day in October (2023’s weather was unpredictable!), and it’s been my go-to comfort ever since—perfect for when you need a nourishing hug from the inside out.
Steps
- Zest the lime and set the zest aside. Juice half of the lime and keep the other half for serving later.
- In a large saucepan, warm vegetable oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook for about 4 minutes until it softens. Stir in curry paste, ginger, and garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, coconut milk, and fish sauce, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add mushrooms and lime zest, then let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the bell pepper and rice noodles, letting it simmer for another 3 minutes. Stir in raw shrimp or pre-cooked chicken, then turn off the heat and cover the pot. Allow it to rest for 5-6 minutes until the shrimp is cooked through or the chicken is heated, and the noodles have softened.
- Add the lime juice to the soup, and serve with fresh herbs and additional lime wedges for garnish.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
- 1 ½ tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 14 ounces coconut milk (full fat, unsweetened)
- 1 ½ tablespoons fish sauce
- ¾ cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, or 2 cups cooked chicken
- 4 ounces medium rice noodles, cooked
- Fresh herbs for serving (such as cilantro, Thai basil, or fresh mint)
- 1 lime, zested and juiced (1 teaspoon zest and 1 tablespoon juice)
FAQ
- Can I make Coconut Curry Soup vegetarian or vegan?
- Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian or vegan by omitting the meat and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add roasted butternut squash, sweet potato cubes, or a drained can of lentils for added protein and texture.
- What type of coconut milk should I use?
- It is recommended to use unsweetened full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor and richness in your soup. Light coconut milk can be used, but it may result in a thinner broth.
- How can I make the soup spicier?
- You can increase the spiciness of the soup by adding a few dashes of Sriracha or Sambal, or you can serve these condiments on the side so that each person can adjust the heat to their liking.
- What is the best way to store leftovers?
- Leftover coconut curry soup should be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you plan to have leftovers, consider cooking the rice noodles separately and adding them to individual servings to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Can I use different vegetables in the soup?
- Absolutely! This soup is very versatile, and you can experiment with various vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, diced carrots, or sweet potatoes to suit your taste preferences or use up what you have on hand.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Incorporate fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor. These ingredients are crucial for adding depth to the soup’s taste profile.
- Monitor Noodle Cooking Time: Rice noodles should be simmered briefly and allowed to finish cooking as the soup rests. Adjust the timing based on your noodle package directions to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spiciness of the soup by adding Sriracha or Sambal. You can also serve these condiments on the side for those who prefer a milder dish.
- Consider Low-Carb Options: For a low-carb variation, skip the rice noodles and replace them with cauliflower florets. This substitution maintains the soup’s heartiness without the extra carbohydrates.
Equipment
- Fine Grater or Zester – For zesting the lime.
- Large Saucepan or Pot – If you don’t already have a suitable size for cooking soups.
- Lime Squeezer – Helpful for juicing the lime efficiently.
- Cooking Utensils – Such as a wooden spoon or spatula, if not already available.
