This Thai Coconut Soup with Prawns is a bold and comforting fusion of creamy coconut milk, fragrant herbs, and succulent prawns. It’s a quick recipe that brings together all the essential Thai flavors—spicy, sweet, tangy, and savory—into a deeply satisfying bowl of warmth. The lemongrass and lime zest give it a citrusy lift, while the rich broth is balanced with a delicate heat from chilli garlic paste.
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this soup is endlessly adaptable and deeply nourishing. Swap the prawns for chicken, tofu, or add extra veggies to make it your own. Whether served as a light meal or part of a Thai-inspired dinner, it’s a slurp-worthy dish that hits every note of comfort and delight.
Full Recipe:
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1 tbsp vegetable oil
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10 prawns/shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 garlic cloves, finely grated
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2 tsp ginger, finely grated
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1 lemongrass stalk, finely grated (bottom 5 inches, pale part only)
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 1/2 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce)
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2 tsp curry powder (mild or hot)
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1 tsp ground coriander
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2 tsp chilli garlic paste (adjust to taste)
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400ml (14 oz) coconut milk
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500ml (2 cups) chicken or vegetable broth
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2 tsp lime zest
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200g (7 oz) fresh egg noodles, prepared per package instructions
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Big handful of bean sprouts
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For serving: lime wedges, fresh coriander leaves, sliced red onion, fried Asian shallots, sliced red chilli (optional)
Directions:
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Heat oil in a large saucepan over high heat.
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Sear the prawns on both sides until lightly golden; remove and set aside.
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Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic, ginger, and lemongrass. Sauté for 20 seconds.
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Add brown sugar and fish sauce. Stir and cook for 30 seconds until caramelized.
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Mix in chilli paste, curry powder, and coriander powder. Stir and cook for another 30 seconds.
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Pour in broth and coconut milk. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
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Simmer for 2 minutes, then add lime zest and return prawns to the pot.
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Cook for another 2 minutes until prawns are just cooked through.
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Divide noodles between serving bowls, ladle over the soup, and top with bean sprouts, coriander, and optional toppings.
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Squeeze lime juice over the top and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 665 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Introduction to Thai Coconut Soup with Shrimp
Thai Coconut Soup with Shrimp, also known as Tom Kha Gai when made with chicken, is a beloved Thai dish that blends fragrant spices, creamy coconut milk, and succulent shrimp into a warming, flavorful broth. This soup is a fusion of savory, tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors, making it a perfect dish for those who love a balance of tastes in their meals. It’s not just a soup, but a comforting, aromatic experience that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. The soup is often served with noodles, herbs, and lime to enhance its freshness and zest.
The Flavor Profile of Thai Coconut Soup with Shrimp
The main appeal of this Thai Coconut Soup is its complex yet balanced flavor profile. The base of the soup is coconut milk, which provides a rich, creamy texture that complements the spiciness of the chili paste and the tang of lime. Fresh ginger and garlic deliver a warming heat, while lemongrass and fish sauce bring the characteristic savory depth found in Thai dishes. The shrimp adds sweetness and juiciness to the soup, elevating the overall flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a soup that is comforting, aromatic, and vibrant, making each spoonful a delightful burst of flavor.
Cultural Context and Origins
While the dish may not be entirely authentic to Thai street food culture, it is inspired by traditional Thai recipes, combining the essential ingredients found in many Thai curry and soup dishes. Coconut milk, a staple in Thai cooking, serves as the foundation for many soups and curries, providing a creamy richness that’s hard to replicate. The inclusion of lemongrass, ginger, and fish sauce ties this dish to the Southeast Asian culinary tradition, known for its bold, aromatic, and balanced flavors. This soup draws elements from popular dishes like Tom Yum, a spicy and sour Thai soup, and Laksa, a Malaysian and Singaporean noodle soup, creating a fusion that’s both unique and comforting.
Health Benefits of Thai Coconut Soup with Shrimp
Not only is this soup bursting with flavor, but it also offers several health benefits. Coconut milk is rich in healthy fats, which provide energy and help support brain and heart health. The shrimp adds protein and essential minerals like zinc, which are important for maintaining a healthy immune system. Ginger and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making this soup a great option for soothing digestion and reducing inflammation. Furthermore, the fresh herbs like cilantro and lime juice add a burst of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which supports immune function. Whether you’re looking for comfort or nourishment, this soup delivers both.
Variations of Thai Coconut Soup with Shrimp
The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. While shrimp is the traditional protein, it’s easy to substitute with other proteins like chicken, tofu, or fish. The soup can also be made vegetarian by simply omitting the seafood and using vegetable broth in place of chicken stock. For an extra depth of flavor, you can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or baby corn, all of which are common in Thai soups. If you’re not a fan of noodles, you can also enjoy the soup without them and load up on additional vegetables for a lighter meal.
Another variation involves adjusting the spiciness to suit your taste. The chili garlic paste can be adjusted for more or less heat, depending on your preference. For those who prefer a milder version, swapping out the chili paste for a small amount of mild curry powder will still provide the aromatic kick without overwhelming the palate. You can also explore different types of noodles, such as rice noodles, egg noodles, or even zucchini noodles, to create a dish that matches your personal taste.
Tips for Making the Perfect Thai Coconut Soup with Shrimp
To get the most flavor out of your soup, it’s important to follow a few key tips. First, searing the shrimp is essential to develop the flavor of the broth. Browning the shrimp before adding the other ingredients allows you to capture the rich, caramelized flavors, which then infuse the soup. If you prefer a more pronounced ginger and garlic flavor, sauté them a bit longer until they become golden and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
When cooking with lemongrass, make sure to use only the bottom, tender part of the stalk. The outer, fibrous layers are too tough to be used in cooking. For convenience, you can use lemongrass paste if fresh lemongrass is unavailable. Just be sure to adjust the quantity as per your taste, as the paste can be more concentrated than fresh lemongrass.
Lastly, be cautious with the fish sauce and chili paste. Both ingredients are quite potent and can quickly overpower the dish if too much is added. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste. Don’t forget to balance the flavors with fresh lime juice right before serving to enhance the soup’s freshness and brightness.
Serving Suggestions for Thai Coconut Soup with Shrimp
This Thai Coconut Soup can be served as a light meal or as an appetizer. If serving as a main dish, consider adding side dishes like Thai spring rolls, grilled vegetables, or a simple salad of fresh greens and herbs. The soup is traditionally served with rice noodles or egg noodles, but you can also try it with rice if you prefer a heartier meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro, bean sprouts, sliced red onions, and lime wedges for added flavor and texture. A sprinkle of fried shallots on top adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
The Versatility of Thai Coconut Soup with Shrimp
One of the best things about this Thai Coconut Soup with Shrimp is how customizable it is. While the base remains consistent, you can make this dish your own by adjusting the ingredients and toppings to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, skip the noodles and load the soup up with vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and baby corn. Alternatively, if you love noodles, try different types such as rice vermicelli or soba noodles.
For an extra creamy version, use full-fat coconut milk instead of light coconut milk, or add a spoonful of coconut cream at the end for a richer texture. If you enjoy more heat, add extra chili garlic paste or fresh chilies to the soup, but remember to balance it with the sweet and tangy elements like lime juice and brown sugar.
Conclusion
Thai Coconut Soup with Shrimp is a delightful dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. The combination of coconut milk, shrimp, and aromatic spices makes this soup a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal or as part of a larger Thai-inspired feast, it’s sure to satisfy your craving for something deliciously rich and aromatic. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and comforting flavors, this soup has earned its place as a favorite in many kitchens. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is a great way to bring a taste of Thailand into your home.