If you’re feeling a bit under the weather like so many people this time of year, a comforting hot soup always helps. I usually make a simple chicken noodle soup, but wanted to try something new. I ended up with a creamy coconut soup, similar to the Thai classic Tom Ka Gai. So if you’ve always wanted to taste this iconic Thai dish, try out this quick alternative!
The bright yellow-orange hue comes from the turmeric, perfect to brighten up a cold day. The flavors in this soup are so well balanced by the creamy coconut milk and tart lime juice. Instead of salt, I prefer using Thai fish sauce, but no worries if you want to stick to regular salt.
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Thinly slice ginger, then mince garlic and shallot.
Saute shallot, garlic, ginger and turmeric. Add coconut milk, then stir in shrimp, seasonings and lime juice.
To serve, top with sliced scallions.
Easy Coconut Soup with Shrimp
In a small pot, add oil and saute shallot, garlic and ginger for 2-3 minutes. Stir in turmeric and cook for a minute. Add coconut milk and bring to a simmer, then add shrimp, fish sauce (or salt) and white pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until shrimp is cooked.
Turn heat off and stir in lime juice. Garnish with scallions.
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: makes 2 servings
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That is easy and looks amazing. I made a huge pot of “flu fighting stock” yesterday and plan to make a coconut milk soup with it for dinner. Perfect for this cold weather!
Thank you, Alyssa! It’s a great alternative to the Thai soup, Tom Ka Gai, one of my favorites. Have fun making the coconut milk soup! Tonight I’m probably going to make a quick ‘flu defense’ soup as well 😉
Mmm, seems so comforting and nourishing. I like that it’s a SE-Asian style but not spicy, which is so needed when you have a cold or the flu. 🙂
Yeah, I also like that it’s not spicy, perfect for curling up on the couch. But you can definitely add some chili if you want!
I’ve been experimenting with coconut and shrimp lately and this recipe looks delicious! Love that it’s not spicy as well.
Thank you, Allie! Let me know how it turns out for you.
Thank you so much for a great recipe!!! I just made this for son and I for lunch. Wow! I made sure that I used really good coconut milk and it made this soup sublime. This is now one of my favorite soup recipes.
Wonderful! I’m so happy you and your son enjoyed this soup 🙂
Hi Barb,
I often enjoy your recipes, but sadly neglect to tell you how much I enjoy them. I very much enjoy the way with which you seem to simplify dishes, yet capture all the flavor I hope for. I constantly watch my weight, but try to do so without denying myself anything. Sometimes just a bite or two will satisfy, if it is high fat or high calorie. Your cooking doesn’t restrict me and is highly flavorful which is exactly what I like to eat!
Your efforts are greatly appreciated!
Hi Ida – Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m so happy you’ve been enjoying the recipes. It means a lot to hear that and I appreciate you taking the time to write this nice comment 🙂