Description
A warm, zesty, and comforting Spicy Coconut Shrimp Soup featuring tender shrimp, creamy coconut milk, and a perfect balance of heat and subtle sweetness. Ready in under 30 minutes, this quick and easy recipe is nutritious, protein-packed, and ideal for cozy meals any time.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Protein
- 12 oz peeled and deveined shrimp (fresh or frozen)
Liquids and Broth
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1–2 teaspoons red chili flakes or 1 fresh chili, chopped
Finishing Touches
- Juice of 1 fresh lime
- Fresh cilantro or Thai basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Oil for sautéing (vegetable or coconut oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat a splash of oil in a pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant and golden to create the flavor base for the soup.
- Add broth and coconut milk: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the coconut milk. Stir gently and bring to a simmer, forming a creamy and comforting soup base.
- Incorporate vegetables and spices: Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, and red chili flakes or fresh chili. Let them soften slightly to infuse the soup with vibrant color and heat.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the peeled shrimp to the simmering soup. Cook just until they turn pink and are tender, about 3-4 minutes, taking care not to overcook.
- Season and finish: Stir in fish sauce or soy sauce for umami depth and squeeze in fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped cilantro or basil, and serve.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp when possible for the best texture and flavor; if using frozen, thaw and drain well.
- Do not overcook shrimp; add them last and cook briefly to keep them tender and juicy.
- Adjust the spice level gradually by starting with less chili and increasing to taste.
- Choose full-fat coconut milk for a richer texture or light coconut milk for a lighter version.
- Taste and adjust the balance of lime, salt, and sweetness to achieve the perfect flavor harmony.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 190 mg
Keywords: spicy coconut shrimp soup, coconut milk soup, quick shrimp soup, gluten free soup, Thai shrimp soup, creamy shrimp soup
