Coconut Shrimp Soup

This delightful coconut shrimp soup combines the aromatic sweetness of coconut milk with the savory flavor of shrimp, creating a comforting bowl that's both satisfying and easy to make. Its vibrant mix of vegetables, including carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms, adds a splash of color and a boost of nutrition. The lemongrass and spices give it a subtle, tangy touch that brings out the richness of the coconut milk. Perfect for a cozy evening meal, this dish can easily be customized with your choice of seasonings. It's a one-pot wonder that requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of shrimp and coconut creates a filling yet light dish that pairs well with fresh herbs. Each spoonful is a journey into the tropics, evoking the warmth and comfort of a homemade meal. Whether you're new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this recipe is simple enough to follow yet impressive enough to serve guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 can coconut milk (400ml)
• 400g shrimp
• 2 carrots
• 12 mushrooms
• 3/4 bell pepper
• 1 tomato

Spices and Sauces

• Soy sauce or salt/vegeta (I chose soy sauce)
• Black pepper

Other Ingredients

• 400 ml water
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1/2 lemon (1 tablespoon of juice + lemon zest)
• Sprouted grains (I used sprouted wheat grains for freshness)
• Dill

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing and slicing the mushrooms, dicing the bell pepper and tomato, and grating the carrots.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, bell pepper, and carrots. Sauté them until they begin to soften.
3. Add the Tomato: Once the vegetables are slightly tender, add the diced tomato. Allow it to stew with the other vegetables for a couple of minutes.
4. Seasoning: Sprinkle some black pepper and add the soy sauce or your preferred seasoning. Stir well to coat the vegetables.
5. Coconut Milk and Water: Pour in the can of coconut milk and 400 ml of water. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
6. Lemon Zest and Juice: Grate the zest of half a lemon directly into the soup. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice for a citrusy lift.
7. Simmer the Soup: Allow the soup to simmer gently, giving the flavors time to meld together beautifully.
8. Prepare the Shrimp: While the soup is simmering, clean and devein the shrimp if necessary.
9. Add the Shrimp: As the soup nears readiness, add the shrimp. They will cook quickly, in about two to three minutes.
10. Check for Doneness: Once the shrimp turn pink and opaque, the dish is almost done.
11. Adjust Flavors: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
12. Decorating: Add sprouted grains and a sprinkle of dill to garnish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
13. Finalization: Allow the soup to come to a gentle boil once more, ensuring the shrimp and vegetables are fully cooked.
14. Serve it Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each serving gets a good mix of shrimp, vegetables, and broth.
15. Enjoy the Aroma: The comforting aroma of coconut and shrimp invites everyone to the table.
16. Clean Presentation: Use additional dill sprigs for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
17. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; they should be good for a couple of days.
18. For Tomorrow's Lunch: This soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have deepened.
19. Invite Feedback: Family and guests will appreciate this gourmet-feeling homemade creation.
20. Well Wishes: As you serve, wish your guests a hearty appetite!

Tips

• For a spicier soup, add a pinch of chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili.
• Substitute shrimp with chicken for a different protein option.
• Vegetarians can skip the shrimp and add tofu for a plant-based version.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness of the dish.
• Fresh coriander can be used in place of dill for a different herby touch.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approx. 380 per serving
• Protein: 27g
• Fats: 19g
• Carbs: 22g

Variations

• Add noodles for a heartier version.
• Use red curry paste for a Thai-inspired twist.
• Add sweet potato cubes for extra sweetness and texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with jasmine rice for a more filling meal.
• A side of crusty bread can be a delightful companion to this soup.
• Pair with a light green salad for added freshness.

Best Places

• Neon Pigeon - A trendy spot known for its creative Asian fusion dishes, including coconut-based soups. Location: 1 Keong Saik Road, #01-03. Singapore, Singapore.
• Somtum Der - Famous for its authentic Thai cuisine, offering coconut-rich broths and more. Location: 85 Avenue A, New York, NY, USA.
• Busaba Eathai - Renowned for its Bangkok-inspired menu with aromatic soups and dishes. Location: 106-110 Wardour Street, Soho, London, UK.
• Kin Khao - Celebrated for its modern take on authentic Thai street food. Location: 55 Cyril Magnin Street, San Francisco, CA, USA.
• Comptoir Libanais - Brings Middle Eastern charm to its menu with delightful coconut milk flavor infusions. Location: 65 Wigmore Street, Marylebone, London, UK.
• Chat Thai - Offers great Thai dishes rich in flavors, including its renowned coconut milk soups. Location: 20 Campbell Street, Haymarket, Sydney, Australia.
• NaiYaRa - Known for its dynamic blend of traditional Thai with tropical influences. Location: 1854 Bay Rd, Miami Beach, FL, USA.
• Bo Lan - Emphasizes traditional Thai recipes and high-quality ingredients, including coconut in many dishes. Location: 24 Sukhumvit 53 Alley, Bangkok, Thailand.
• Pok Pok - Features an array of Thai flavors with a focus on authenticity and quality. Location: 3226 SE Division St, Portland, OR, USA.
• Holy Basil - Offers fresh, vibrant dishes that highlight the beauty of coconut milk and spice. Location: 127 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC, Australia.