Thai shrimp curry soup is a warm, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. It’s made with juicy shrimp, creamy coconut milk, fresh vegetables, and bold Thai curry paste. This soup is easy to prepare, comes together in just 30 minutes, and offers a balance of spice, tanginess, and sweetness.
It’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal as a starter or main meal. Whether you’re a fan of Thai cuisine or just looking for a quick and delicious dish, this soup is sure to impress. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it combines simple, fresh ingredients with bold flavors to create a comforting and delicious dish. The shrimp cook quickly and absorb the spicy, aromatic curry broth, making them tender and flavorful. Coconut milk adds richness and balances the heat from the curry paste, while lime juice brightens the dish with a tangy finish. The combination of fresh vegetables adds color, texture, and nutrition, making this soup both hearty and healthy.
Another reason this recipe shines is its versatility. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, yet it tastes like something you’d order at a Thai restaurant. You can easily customize it by using different proteins like chicken or tofu, or by adding noodles or rice for a more filling meal. This soup delivers bold, satisfying flavors in every spoonful with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Shrimp – The star of the soup, tender and juicy. Substitute with chicken, tofu, or scallops for variety.
Coconut Milk – Adds creaminess and richness to the soup. Substitute with light coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter version.
Thai Curry Paste (Red or Green) – Provides bold, spicy, and aromatic flavors. Substitute with yellow curry paste or a homemade spice blend.
Vegetables (Bell Peppers, Carrots, or Zucchini) – Add color, texture, and nutrients. Substitute with spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli.
Fish Sauce – Enhances the savory and umami flavors. Substitute with soy sauce or tamari for a similar salty taste.
Tips
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp and clean them thoroughly before cooking.
- Sauté the curry paste in oil to enhance its flavor before adding liquids.
- Add vegetables based on their cooking time; softer veggies like spinach should be added last.
- Do not overcook the shrimp—2–3 minutes in the hot soup is enough.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for a vibrant finish.
How to Serve
Thai shrimp curry soup is a warm and flavorful dish that works as a main meal or starter. Its creamy broth and tender shrimp make it a crowd-pleaser.
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles for a heartier option.
- Pair with crispy spring rolls or dumplings for a complete Thai-inspired meal.
- Enjoy as a light lunch or dinner with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Similar Recipes
Thai Curry Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 can 13.5 oz coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons Thai curry paste red or green
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables e.g., bell peppers, carrots, zucchini
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce optional
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Optional: cilantro or Thai basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the curry paste and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the coconut milk and broth, whisking until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the vegetables and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Stir in the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, until they turn pink and are fully cooked.
- Add the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or Thai basil, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
• Sauté the curry paste in oil to enhance its flavor before adding liquids.
• Add vegetables based on their cooking time; softer veggies like spinach should be added last.
• Do not overcook the shrimp—2–3 minutes in the hot soup is enough.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for a vibrant finish.
This Thai curry soup is fast, simple, comforting, and full of fabulous flavor.