Description

Warm, comforting, and layered with exotic flavor, this Creamy Thai Shrimp Coconut Curry Soup is a delicious bowl of tropical indulgence. Tender shrimp simmer in a rich coconut broth spiced with red curry, fresh ginger, and fragrant herbs. Balanced with lime juice and a touch of sweetness, this soup is light yet satisfying—a perfect fusion of spice, creaminess, and seafood comfort in one bowl.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup Base:

1 tbsp coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 small shallot or onion, finely chopped
1–2 tbsp Thai red curry paste (adjust to taste)
1 tsp turmeric powder (optional, for color)
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar or coconut sugar
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

For the Shrimp & Add-ins:

1 lb medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1½ cups mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or cremini work well)
1 cup baby spinach or bok choy
½ cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1–2 Thai chilies or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish:

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Green onions, sliced
Lime wedges
Cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles (optional for serving)

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat coconut oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
Add garlic, ginger, and shallot, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in red curry paste and turmeric. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, to bring out the flavor.

Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients
Pour in coconut milk and broth, whisking to combine.
Stir in fish sauce (or soy sauce), brown sugar, and lime juice.
Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Veggies
Add mushrooms and bell peppers. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, until veggies are tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Add Shrimp & Greens
Add the shrimp and simmer for 3–4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
Stir in spinach or bok choy and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Taste & Adjust
Taste the broth and adjust with more lime juice, salt, or spice as needed.
Remove from heat and let sit for 2–3 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, and extra lime wedges.
Serve as-is, or with a scoop of jasmine rice or rice noodles for a heartier bowl.

Notes

Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk – For the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Add them near the end to keep them juicy and tender.
Customize the Veggies – Carrots, snap peas, or zucchini work great.
Control the Heat – Start with 1 tbsp curry paste and add more to taste.
Brighten at the End – A splash of lime juice at the end adds freshness and balance.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Thai-Inspired