About the Recipe
Dive into the bold and aromatic world of Spicy Prawn Soup, a delightful dish that combines succulent prawns with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the vibrant heat of curry paste. This soup is a fusion of flavors that brings together the best of seafood and spice, making it a perfect choice for those who love their meals with a bit of a kick. Whether you're looking to warm up on a cool day or simply in the mood for something flavorful and satisfying, this spicy prawn soup promises to deliver on all fronts.
Ingredients:
For the Spicy Prawn Soup:
1 pound (450g) prawns, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
2-3 tablespoons curry paste (choose according to your preference for heat and flavor)
4 cups (1L) chicken or vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or shiitake work well)
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste
For Garnish:
Fresh coriander, chopped
Green onions, sliced
Lime wedges
Red chili slices (optional, for extra heat)
Preparation:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
Step 2: Add Curry Paste
Stir in the curry paste and cook for a minute until it's well combined with the aromatics and releases its flavors.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Coconut Milk
Add the chicken or vegetable broth and coconut milk to the pot. Stir to combine everything smoothly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add Mushrooms and Seasonings
Incorporate the sliced mushrooms into the soup. Season with fish sauce, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Cook the Prawns
Add the prawns to the soup and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are pink and cooked through.
Step 6: Finish with Lime Juice
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lime juice. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the spicy prawn soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander, sliced green onions, lime wedges, and red chili slices if desired.
Chef's Notes:
Choosing Curry Paste: The type of curry paste you choose (such as red, green, or yellow Thai curry paste) will influence the flavor and heat level of the soup. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your taste preferences.
Prawn Preparation: Ensure the prawns are properly cleaned and deveined before adding them to the soup for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestion: This soup can be served as a main course or as a starter. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside steamed rice or rice noodles.
Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion:
This Spicy Prawn Soup is a celebration of rich flavors and comforting warmth, perfect for any occasion that calls for a meal that's both nourishing and exciting. Enjoy the process of creating this flavorful soup and the delightful experience of savoring each spicy, aromatic bite.