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Craving a warm, creamy soup packed with bold flavor? This Shrimp Coconut Noodle Soup delivers exactly that—and more. It’s quick, simple, and brings Southeast Asian flavors right to your kitchen.
You’ll love the balance of sweet coconut milk, zesty lime, tender shrimp, and silky rice noodles. It’s comfort food with an exotic twist.
Whether it’s a cozy night in or you’re impressing guests, this recipe is sure to please.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Coconut Noodle Soup
- Creamy, spicy, and full of flavor
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
- Easy to customize with veggies or proteins
- Gluten-free and dairy-free
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this rich and flavorful shrimp noodle soup:
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 200g (7 oz) rice noodles
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro and basil, for garnish
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 tbsp Thai red curry paste (for heat and flavor)
- 1 tbsp sugar (to balance acidity)
- Bean sprouts (for crunch)
- Sliced red chili (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Sauté Aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
This is the flavor base of your soup—don’t skip it.
2. Optional: Add Curry Paste
If using Thai red curry paste, stir it in now. Cook for 1 minute to activate the spices.
This step adds depth and that signature Thai heat.
3. Build the Broth
Pour in coconut milk and broth. Stir gently to combine.
Bring to a light simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes.
The broth becomes creamy, savory, and full of flavor.
4. Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp to the pot.
Simmer for 3–4 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Be careful not to overcook them—shrimp cook fast.
5. Prepare the Noodles
While the soup simmers, soak or cook rice noodles according to the package instructions.
Drain and rinse with cold water.
Set aside. You’ll add them just before serving to prevent sogginess.
6. Add Noodles & Season
Add the noodles to the soup.
Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Taste and adjust. Add sugar or more lime if needed.
Balance is key: salty, tangy, creamy, and slightly sweet.
7. Garnish and Serve
Ladle into bowls.
Top with chopped cilantro, basil, and optional bean sprouts or sliced chili.
Bright herbs and fresh toppings add flavor and color.
Recipe Tips
Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk
It creates a rich, creamy base. Light coconut milk works in a pinch but won’t be as velvety.
Control the Spice
Add more or less curry paste or chili to suit your heat preference. Start mild and work up.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp only need a few minutes to cook. Once they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done.
Noodles Last
Add noodles just before serving so they stay springy—not soggy.
Garnishes Matter
Herbs like cilantro and basil add freshness that balances the creamy broth beautifully.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is highly flexible. Here are a few swaps and additions:
- Protein: Use chicken, tofu, or mixed seafood instead of shrimp
- Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or snap peas
- Gluten-Free: Stick with rice noodles and check labels on curry paste and fish sauce
- Keto: Swap noodles for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles
Storage & Reheating
Fridge
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Noodles may soften over time, so store them separately if possible.
Reheat
Warm gently in a pot over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
What to Serve With It
This soup stands alone, but here are a few perfect pairings:
- Crispy spring rolls
- Thai cucumber salad
- Sticky rice or jasmine rice
- Thai iced tea or a crisp white wine
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Serves 4
- Calories: ~430
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
Nutritional info may vary based on ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Coconut Noodle Soup brings the magic of Thai flavors to your table with minimal effort. It’s warm, creamy, and packed with bright, bold ingredients.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, it offers that beautiful balance of richness, spice, and freshness.
