Easy And Flavorful Coconut Soup Recipe With A Perfect Texture

Explore the realm of vibrant flavors with an enticing Thai Coconut Soup recipe. A symphony of spicy, sweet, and tangy notes, it’s the heart of Southeast Asian culinary charm. Every spoonful delivers an exotic taste immersed in creamy coconut milk.

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Coconut Soup

Picture fresh lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, their enchanting aromas wafting through your kitchen. Savor tender slices of chicken infused with aromatic herbs, melting on your tongue. Feel the warmth of red chili, a fiery contrast to the cool, soothing coconut. 

It’s more than a recipe—it’s an adventure, a journey into the essence of Thai cuisine. Simple yet authentic, anyone can master this dish. Unearth its secrets today, cook up a storm, and immerse in its gastronomic allure. 

The real question isn’t if but when you’ll dive into this Thai Coconut Soup culinary adventure. It’s time to stir up the magic. Transform your kitchen into a gourmet Thai diner. Let the journey begin!

What Is A Thai Coconut Soup Recipe?

Thai Coconut Soup, known as Tom Kha Gai, is a rich and aromatic soup native to Thailand. It combines the creaminess of coconut milk with bold flavors of lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers. Tender chicken pieces and mushrooms add a satisfying texture. 

It is the perfect harmony of sweet, sour, and spicy elements, presenting an authentic taste of Thai cuisine. Quick to prepare, this soup offers a fantastic and flavorful culinary journey from your kitchen to the vibrant streets of Thailand.

History Of Thai Coconut Soup Recipe

The origins of Thai Coconut Soup, or Tom Kha Gai, trace back to the culinary heritage of Thailand. “Tom” means boiling, “Kha” refers to galangal – a key ingredient, and “Gai” is chicken. This age-old recipe emerged from the country’s central plains, blending local ingredients with culinary influences from neighboring countries. 

Its robust flavor profile – a balance of spicy, sour, sweet, and salty – mirrors the diverse food culture of Thailand. Over time, it has gained international recognition, becoming a symbol of Thai cuisine worldwide. Today, Tom Kha Gai represents the essence of Thai food culture – a delicious harmony of distinct, vibrant flavors.

Interesting Facts About Thai Coconut Soup Recipe

  • Symbol of Balance: Thai Coconut Soup embodies the Thai concept of balance. Thai cuisine is about the harmony of four fundamental tastes in each dish or the overall meal: sweet (sugar), spicy (chili), sour (lime), and salt.
  • Main Ingredients: The soup’s key ingredients — coconut milk, galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves — are common in Southeast Asian cuisines, but when combined, they give Thai Coconut Soup its unique flavor.
  • Versatility: Although it’s traditionally made with chicken (Tom Kha Gai), it’s a versatile dish. It can be prepared with seafood (Tom Kha Talay), tofu (Tom Kha Tofu), or as a vegetarian dish.
  • Health Benefits: Beyond its delicious taste, Thai Coconut Soup has numerous health benefits. Ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, and chili have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
  • Popular Globally: While originally from Thailand, Thai Coconut Soup is a beloved dish worldwide. It’s become a staple in Thai restaurants globally, serving as an introduction to Thai cuisine for many.

What Makes Thai Coconut Soup Recipe Special?

  • Blend of Flavors: The exceptional balance of flavors makes this soup unique. It masterfully harmonizes sweet, sour, spicy, and salty tastes, producing a rich, multi-dimensional, distinctly Thai flavor profile.
  • Unique Ingredients: The soup features several unique, aromatic ingredients like galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves, which are not commonly found in Western soups, offering a refreshing and exotic taste.
  • Versatility: Its versatility adds to its specialness. While it’s traditionally made with chicken, it can easily be adapted to include seafood, tofu, or purely vegetarian, catering to various dietary preferences.
  • Healthful: The soup is flavorful and packed with health benefits. The ingredients have various medicinal properties, such as aiding digestion and boosting immunity.
  • Creamy Consistency: Finally, the creamy consistency provided by the coconut milk sets it apart from many other soups, creating a rich, satisfying, and comforting dish.
Coconut Soup

Ingredients List

IngredientAmount
Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined1 pound
Canned coconut milk2 (13.5 ounce) cans
Water2 cups
Galangal, thinly sliced1 (1 inch) piece
Lemongrass, bruised and chopped4 stalks
Kaffir lime leaves, torn in half10 leaves
Shiitake mushrooms, sliced1 pound
Lime juice1/4 cup
Fish sauce3 tablespoons
Brown sugar1/4 cup
Curry powder1 teaspoon
Green onion, thinly sliced1 tablespoon
Dried red pepper flakes1 teaspoon

Ingredient Tips

  • Coconut Milk: Opt for full-fat coconut milk to achieve the rich, creamy texture that defines this soup. Light coconut milk can make the soup too thin and watery.
  • Galangal: Galangal is a crucial ingredient that imparts a unique, aromatic flavor. If it’s difficult to find, you can use ginger as a substitute, but remember; the taste will be different.
  • Lemongrass: Use the lower, fatter part of the stalk and smash it to release the flavor. Remove before serving as it’s tough to eat.
  • Kaffir Lime Leaves: These leaves give the soup its distinctive citrusy aroma. They’re usually found in Asian supermarkets. If unavailable, you can substitute with lime zest.
  • Chicken: Traditionally, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used, but thighs can offer more flavor and tenderness.
  • Chili: Adjust the amount of chili to suit your heat preference. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to remove if the soup becomes too spicy!
  • Mushrooms: Straw mushrooms are typically used in Thai Coconut Soup, but other varieties, like shiitake or cremini, work well too.
  • Freshness: Use fresh ingredients where possible for maximum flavor. The taste of dried or powdered alternatives often differs significantly.

 Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

  • Keto/Paleo: Use a sugar substitute or omit the sugar to make it keto-friendly. For a Paleo version, use a Paleo-compliant fish sauce and sugar substitute.
  • Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure the fish sauce and other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free, as some may contain hidden gluten.
  • Whole30: Omit the sugar and replace traditional fish sauce with a Whole30-compliant version. Add more vegetables to increase the nutritional profile.
  • Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace the chicken with tofu or veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and bamboo shoots. Use a vegan fish sauce or soy sauce for the umami flavor.
  • Pescatarian: You can replace the chicken with shrimp or a firm white fish like cod or halibut.
Coconut Soup

Recipe Directions 

  • After boiling the shrimp, set them aside. 
  • Galangal, lime leaves, water, lemongrass, coconut milk, and a 10-minute simmer are used to infuse the flavors. 
  • Strain the spices and continue simmering shiitake mushrooms in the infused coconut milk for 5 minutes. 
  • Stir in lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, and season with curry powder to achieve a perfect balance of flavors. 
  • Reheat the shrimp in the soup to serve them tender and succulent. 
  • Finally, ladle the aromatic Thai coconut soup into bowls, garnish with chopped green onion, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an enticing presentation. 
  • Enjoy this delightful and soul-warming soup!
Coconut Soup

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations 

  • Protein: Swap shrimp for proteins like chicken, tofu, or a firm fish like cod.
  • Vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or baby corn for added crunch and nutritional boost.
  • Heat Level: Customize the spiciness with additional red pepper flakes or fresh chili.
  • Aromatics: Add more aromatic herbs like Thai basil or cilantro for a fresh twist.
  • Substitute: For a vegan or vegetarian version, replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari and shrimp with tofu or more mushrooms.

Toppings 

  • Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro, Thai basil, or mint leaves.
  • Crunch: Add a crunch with chopped peanuts or cashews.
  • Extra Spice: Sliced fresh chilies or a dash of chili oil can add a nice kick.
  • Lime: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra tangy squeeze to taste.
  • Aromatics: Garnish with extra green onions or shallots for a pop of color and added flavor.

Scaling The Recipe 

  • Servings: Determine the number of servings you need. The original recipe serves how many people? How many people do you want it to serve?
  • Proportions: Once you know the number of servings, adjust the quantities of the ingredients accordingly. For example, doubling the servings, double the quantities of all the ingredients. If you’re halving the servings, cut all ingredient quantities in half.
  • Cooking Time: While ingredients can be scaled up or down linearly, cooking time may not always follow the same pattern. More volume may require more simmering time for flavors to infuse properly. Conversely, less volume may need less time. Always check for doneness.
  • Pan Size: Ensure that your pot or pan is large enough to accommodate larger ingredients when scaling up. If scaling down, a smaller pot may be more appropriate for the soup to cook evenly.
  • Spices: When scaling up, be cautious with spices and seasonings. Sometimes doubling spices can overpower a dish. Increase them gradually and taste as you go.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

  • Green Onion: Chopped green onion adds a burst of color and a subtle, mild flavor.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: These add a pop of color and a spicy kick. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
  • Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro, Thai basil, or mint leaves can be used for garnishing, adding a new and aromatic note to the soup.
  • Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows each person to squeeze fresh lime juice into their soup according to their taste, adding a new citrusy note.
  • Chilies: Sliced fresh red or green chilies can add vibrant color and an extra heat element for those who love spicy food.
Coconut Soup

Can I Make The Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

  • Add the coconut milk, water, galangal, lemongrass, lime leaves, and shiitake mushrooms to your slow cooker.
  • Cook on low for 4-6 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
  • After this time, strain the soup to remove the spices, then return the liquid to the slow cooker.
  • Add the cooked shrimp, lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until everything is warmed through.
  • Garnish with green onions and red pepper flakes before serving.

Instant Pot

  • Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the galangal, lemongrass, lime leaves, water, coconut milk, and mix well. Let the ingredients steep for about 10 minutes.
  • Add the mushrooms, secure the lid, and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
  • Once done, carefully release the pressure, then strain the soup to remove the spices.
  • Switch back to the sauté function, add the cooked shrimp, lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar, and heat for about 3-5 minutes until everything is warmed through.
  • Garnish with green onions and red pepper flakes before serving.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Store-Bought Broth

  • This is a convenient option when you’re short on time. Opt for a low-sodium variety to adjust the saltiness of your seasonings. Chicken or vegetable broth can be used in place of water for an added depth of flavor.

Homemade Broth

  • Making your broth allows for the freshest flavors and the ability to control the sodium content. It’s a good option if you have leftover bones or vegetable scraps. You can also infuse the broth with traditional Thai aromatics such as galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves for an extra depth of flavor.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

  • Meat: Aside from shrimp, you can use chicken (a common choice), beef, or pork. Adjust cooking times as necessary since different meats will cook at different rates.
  • Fish: A firm, white fish like cod, halibut, or sea bass would work well. These types of fish hold up to simmering without falling apart.
  • Pasta: Traditional Thai Coconut Soup doesn’t include pasta, but you could add rice noodles or vermicelli for a more substantial dish. Always cook the pasta separately to avoid overcooking and soaking up too much broth.
  • Vegetables: Many vegetables would complement this soup. Bell peppers, snow peas, baby corn, bamboo shoots, bok choy, or spinach could all be tasty additions. If using leafy greens, add them near the end of cooking to prevent wilting.
Coconut Soup

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Recipe

Creating the perfect soup requires a blend of good ingredients, careful preparation, and considerate cooking. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the best Thai Coconut Soup

Prepping Tips

  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh herbs, vegetables, and proteins significantly enhance the flavors of your soup.
  • Prep Ahead: Chop all your vegetables, measure your spices, and have your proteins ready before starting. This practice, mise en place, can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
  • Adjust to Taste: Recipes serve as guides. Always adjust seasonings to your liking. Taste as you go and add more or less spices, herbs, or salt as needed.

Cooking Tips

  • Simmer, Don’t Boil: Keep your soup at a steady simmer. Boiling can make proteins tough and vegetables mushy.
  • Layer Flavors: Add ingredients in stages. Start with aromatic herbs and spices to infuse the soup base, add proteins and veggies, and finish with fresh herbs and final seasonings.
  • Strain for Smoothness: If the recipe calls for it, strain your soup to remove spices or herbs and achieve a smoother texture.
  • Consider Cook Times: Add ingredients based on how long they need to cook. Root vegetables take longer than leafy greens, so add them first.
  • Rest and Reheat: Soups often taste better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Coconut Soup

Nutritional Values 

Discover the nutritional wonders of soups! Soups offer a delicious and nourishing way to stay healthy, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Savor the goodness in every spoonful!

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?

The total caloric content of Thai Coconut Soup can vary significantly based on the specific ingredients and their quantities used in the recipe. However, a rough estimate for a standard serving of Thai Coconut Soup (Tom Kha Gai) could range from 200 to 300 calories per serving.

Dietary Restrictions Of Thai Coconut Soup

  • Gluten-Free: The soup is naturally gluten-free with a gluten-free fish sauce or alternative. Always check labels to be sure.
  • Dairy-Free: This recipe excludes dairy products, so it is naturally dairy-free.
  • Nut-Free: While the soup contains coconut milk, coconuts are not technically nuts, and most people with nut allergies can safely consume it. However, if you have a known allergy to coconut, this soup would not be suitable.
  • Paleo & Whole30: The soup complies with the Paleo and Whole30 diets if you ensure that the fish sauce and curry powder you’re using do not contain any non-compliant ingredients.
  • Keto: Thai Coconut Soup can be considered keto-friendly due to its high-fat content from coconut milk and low carbohydrate count. However, watch out for hidden carbs in ingredients like brown sugar and make substitutions if necessary.
  • Vegetarian & Vegan: For a vegetarian or vegan version, replace shrimp with tofu or more vegetables, and replace the fish sauce with a vegan alternative like soy sauce or tamari.
  • Low-FODMAP: To make this soup low-FODMAP, omit the shiitake mushrooms and use green parts of green onions only for garnish.

Health Benefits Of Thai Coconut Soup

  • Hydration: Soups are rich in water, helping to hydrate your body, which is especially important in hot climates or during illness.
  • Nutrition: Thai Coconut Soup contains a variety of nutritious ingredients. Shrimp is a lean source of protein, while coconut milk provides healthy fats. Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Digestion: Soups are usually easier to digest than solid foods because the ingredients are broken down during cooking. This makes it easier for your body to absorb nutrients.
  • Weight Management: Many soups, particularly broths, are low in calories but high in water content, which can help you feel full and potentially aid in weight loss or management.
  • Immunity: Traditional Thai ingredients like lime leaves, lemongrass, and galangal are known for their health benefits, including boosting immunity and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Versatility: You can easily add or substitute ingredients to meet your nutritional needs. For instance, adding a variety of vegetables can increase your fiber, vitamins, and minerals intake.

Nutrition Table 

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make The Soup Lower In Sodium?

  • Fish Sauce: This condiment is typically high in sodium. You could reduce the amount used or seek low-sodium alternatives. A splash of lime juice can help replace some of the tangy flavors that fish sauce provides.
  • Broth: Choose a low-sodium or unsalted version if you’re using a store-bought broth instead of water. If making your own, avoid adding salt.
  • Add More Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs, spices, and aromatics like galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. They will impart lots of flavor, reducing the need for salt.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh proteins and vegetables over processed or canned, often containing added sodium.
  • Taste As You Go: Gradually add salt, tasting as you go to prevent over-salting. Guests can always add more salt to their individual servings if needed.
  • Healthy Garnishes: Choose garnishes like fresh herbs, lime wedges, or chili flakes to boost flavor without adding sodium.

How Can I Make The Soup Lower In Sugar?

  • Brown Sugar: You could reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe, omit it altogether, or replace it with a natural sweetener like stevia, which won’t impact blood sugar levels.
  • Coconut Milk: Be mindful that some brands of canned coconut milk contain added sugars. Look for a brand that lists only coconut and water in the ingredients.
  • Fish Sauce: While not a major sugar source, some fish sauce varieties can contain a small amount. Check the label to be sure.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients wherever possible, as processed or canned foods often contain hidden sugars.
  • Balance Flavors: If you miss the sweetness, try to balance the flavors with more herbs, spices, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. The key to Thai cuisine is the balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors.
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How To Serve The Soup At Its Best?

  • Individual Bowls: Serving the soup in individual bowls allows guests to enjoy the vibrant color and aroma. It’s a visual treat!
  • Garnishes: Garnish with fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil, fresh red chili for heat, lime wedges for added zest, and sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
  • Accompaniments: Thai Coconut Soup is often enjoyed as a standalone dish. Still, it can also be served alongside jasmine rice or rice noodles to make it a more substantial meal. For a lighter side, consider a crisp, fresh salad.
  • Pairings: Consider pairing this soup with other Thai dishes for a full-course meal. Satay skewers, spring rolls, or a Thai green papaya salad would beautifully complement the rich, creamy soup.
  • Serving Temperature: The soup is best enjoyed hot. If serving later, you may need to gently reheat it on the stove, stirring to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Soup Recipe

  • Jasmine Rice: A staple in Thai cuisine, jasmine rice is fragrant and slightly sticky, making it perfect for sopping up the flavorful broth of the soup.
  • Spring Rolls: Crispy and light spring rolls provide a contrasting texture to the creamy soup. You could go for traditional vegetable spring rolls or try something different, like Thai basil chicken spring rolls.
  • Thai Green Papaya Salad (Som Tam): This fresh, crunchy, and vibrant salad. The tangy, spicy, and sweet notes from the salad balance the soup’s rich, creamy, and mild flavors.
  • Satay Skewers: Grilled chicken or tofu satay skewers served with a rich peanut sauce can complement the soup’s flavors. The charred, smoky flavor from the grilled skewers will contrast nicely with the smooth, creamy soup.
  • Thai Sticky Rice with Mango: If you want to end your meal on a sweet note, this dessert would be perfect. The sweetness from the ripe mango, coconut milk, and sticky rice is a delightful finish after the savory soup.
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How Long Can We Store The Soup?

Thai Coconut Soup can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container to help maintain its freshness.

If you want to keep the soup longer, it can be frozen for 2-3 months. Portion the soup into freezer-safe jars or sturdy freezer bags for easy reheating later.

To reheat, if the soup is frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. You can then warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems too thick after reheating, add a bit of water or broth to adjust its consistency.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

Thai Coconut Soup can be made in advance, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or entertaining guests.

You can prepare the soup until the shrimp is added and reheat it when ready to serve. Before serving, you can add the shrimp, which will cook quickly in the hot soup, ensuring they are perfectly cooked and not overdone.

Remember to let the soup cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator, and always keep it in airtight containers. As mentioned, the soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days and in the freezer for 2-3 months.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

  • Noodle Soup: Cook some rice noodles and add them to the reheated soup for a quick, comforting noodle soup dish.
  • Stir-fry Sauce: Use the soup as a flavorful sauce in a stir-fry. Add it to sautéed vegetables, tofu, or chicken and serve over rice.
  • Curry Base: Thicken your leftover soup with a bit of cornstarch and use it as a curry base. Add vegetables, chicken, or tofu for a new twist on dinner.
  • Rice Flavoring: Use the soup to cook jasmine or basmati rice for a deliciously fragrant and flavored side dish.
  • Shrimp Poaching Liquid: Poach more shrimp or even fish in the leftover soup to impart beautiful flavors.
  • Soup Dumplings: If you’re feeling adventurous, reduce the soup, add some gelatin, and use it as a filling for homemade Thai-flavored soup dumplings.
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Special Tools/Equipment

  • Chef’s Knife: For chopping vegetables and slicing ingredients with precision.
  • Cutting Board: To provide a stable surface for cutting and preparing the ingredients.
  • Pot or Saucepan: For cooking the soup and simmering the ingredients.
  • Blender or Food Processor: To puree the soup into a smooth and creamy consistency.
  • Citrus Zester or Grater: To zest lime or grate lemongrass to add citrusy flavors.
  • Ladle: For serving the soup in bowls.
  • Cooking Spoon: For stirring and mixing the ingredients while cooking.
  • Vegetable Peeler: To peel vegetables like carrots or ginger.
  • Coconut Opener: If using fresh coconut, a coconut opener helps access the coconut water and flesh.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Use Chicken Or Tofu Instead Of Shrimp?

Absolutely! This Thai Coconut Soup is versatile, and you can easily substitute shrimp with cooked chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time to ensure your chicken is fully cooked or tofu is heated.

Is There A Way To Make The Soup Less Spicy?

Yes, you can reduce the spiciness by using less curry powder and dried red pepper flakes. Alternatively, omit the dried red pepper flakes altogether for a milder taste. Adjust the seasoning gradually to suit your preference.

Can I Make This Soup In Advance And Store It?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days in an air-tight jar. To retain the flavors, slowly reheat it on the stove over a simmer.

What Can I Use Instead Of Kaffir Lime Leaves If I Can’t Find Them?

If kaffir lime leaves are unavailable, you can use lime zest as a substitute. Grate the zest of one lime and add it to the soup for a similar citrusy aroma.

Can I Freeze The Leftover Soup For Later Consumption?

While it is possible to freeze the soup, the texture and consistency of coconut milk-based soups may slightly change upon thawing. To freeze, transfer the cooled soup to freezer-safe jars, leaving some space for expansion.

Consume it within 2-3 months for the best quality. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop. Stir well to ensure a smooth consistency before serving.

Easy And Flavorful Coconut Soup Recipe With A Perfect Texture

Easy And Flavorful Coconut Soup Recipe With A Perfect Texture

5 from 1 vote
Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipe
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Indulge in the delectable flavors of Thai Coconut Soup! Succulent shrimp, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and aromatic lemongrass blend harmoniously in creamy coconut milk.

Ingredients

  • Medium shrimp peeled and deveined

  • Canned coconut milk

  • Water

  • Galangal, thinly sliced

  • Lemongrass, bruised and chopped

  • Kaffir lime leaves, torn in half

  • Shiitake mushrooms, sliced

  • Lime juice

  • Fish sauce

  • Brown sugar

  • Curry powder

  • Green onion, thinly sliced

  • Dried red pepper flakes

Step-By-Step Directions 

  • Start by bringing a pot of water to a vigorous boil.
  • Once boiling, add shrimp and cook them for about one minute or until they turn pink.
  • Carefully drain the shrimp, and set them aside on a plate for later use.
  • In a large saucepan, combine coconut milk and 2 cups of water. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  • Add galangal, lime leaves, and lemongrass to the simmering liquid, allowing them to infuse for about 10 minutes.
  • After the flavors are well-infused, strain the coconut milk into a new pan, discarding the strained spices.
  • Bring the infused coconut milk back to a simmer and add shiitake mushrooms, letting them cook for about five minutes.
  • Next, stir in lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Season the soup to your taste with curry powder.
  • To serve, reheat the previously cooked shrimp directly in the soup, ensuring they are warmed.
  • Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls. For a final touch, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of green onions and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially shrimp and shiitake mushrooms, for the best results.
  • If you can’t find galangal, substitute it with ginger for a similar flavor.
  • When bruising the lemongrass, gently pound it with the back of a knife or a mallet to release its aromatic oils.
  • Adjust the amount of curry powder and dried red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. Add more for extra heat or reduce for a milder taste.
  • To enhance the presentation, garnish the soup with fresh cilantro leaves and a drizzle of coconut milk before serving.
  • The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
  • Feel free to customize the soup with additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or baby corn for added texture and nutrients.
  • To make it a complete meal, serve the Thai Coconut Soup with steamed jasmine rice on the side. Enjoy!
Hanna Barnes

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