Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the vibrant flavours of Shrimp and Lemongrass Soup! This aromatic and refreshing soup is a delightful fusion of Asian and seafood influences, combining succulent shrimp, fragrant lemongrass, and a medley of herbs and spices. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a symphony of tangy, savoury, and slightly spicy notes that will transport you to culinary bliss.
The star ingredient, shrimp, add a delicate sweetness to the broth while providing a delightful texture. Lemongrass, known for its citrusy aroma, infuses the soup with a refreshing and zesty character. The broth is further elevated by adding other aromatic ingredients like ginger, garlic, and Thai chillies, which lend depth and complexity to the overall flavour profile.
Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or simply craving a comforting and flavoursome soup, Shrimp and Lemongrass Soup is a must-try recipe. It’s perfect as an appetizer to kickstart a meal or as a light and nourishing main course. This soup pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a side of crusty bread. The bright and vibrant colours of the dish will make it a standout addition to your table, impressing family and guests alike.
Shrimp and Lemongrass Soup
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 Lemongrass Stalks trimmed and cut into 1 inch lengths
- 2 to 2 Fresh Galangal Slices
- 125 g Shrimp peeled, deveined
- 1/2 cup Mushrooms thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp Fish Sauce
- 1 to 2 cup Chicken Stock
- 1 tbsp Coriander Leaves coarsely chopped
- 1 Spring Onions finely sliced
- 1/2 tbsp Thai Chillies finely sliced
- 1 to 2 tbsp Lime Juice
- 2 Kaffir Lime Leaves torn
Instructions
- Combine the lime juice, green chillies, spring onions and 1 lime leaf.
- Heat a pan over moderate flame.
- Add chicken stock, lemongrass, galangal and remaining lime leaves.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the shrimps and mushrooms.
- Cook for a minute more, until the mushrooms are tender and shrimps are cooked.
- Add the fish sauce and remove the pan from heat.
- Transfer to a serving bowl.
- Add lime juice and stir well.
- Garnish with coriander leaves.
- Serve hot or warm.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shrimp and Lemongrass Soup
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp can be a convenient option for making Shrimp and Lemongrass Soup. Thoroughly thaw the shrimp before adding them to the soup. You can do this by placing the frozen shrimp in a colander and rinsing them under cold water until they are completely thawed. Pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the soup. By using frozen shrimp, you can enjoy this delicious soup any time of the year, even when fresh shrimp may not be readily available.
How spicy are Shrimp and Lemongrass soups?
The spiciness of Shrimp and Lemongrass Soup can be adjusted according to your personal preference. The recipe typically calls for Thai chillies, which have a moderate heat level. However, if you prefer a milder soup, you can reduce the number of chillies or remove the seeds to lessen the spiciness. On the other hand, if you enjoy a fiery kick, you can add extra chillies or even a dash of chilli paste or sriracha sauce for an added punch. The beauty of this soup is that you have the flexibility to customize the spiciness to suit your taste buds.
Can I make a larger Shrimp and Lemongrass Soup batch and freeze the leftovers?
While it’s best to enjoy Shrimp and Lemongrass Soup fresh, you can make a larger batch and freeze the leftovers for later consumption. When freezing the soup, cool it down completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Label the containers with the date and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat it on the stovetop until it’s heated. Remember that the shrimp’s texture may change slightly after freezing, but the flavours will still be delicious.
Can I use other seafood instead of shrimp in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe is Shrimp and Lemongrass Soup, you can experiment with other seafood types. For example, you can use scallops, fish fillets, or a combination of different seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and mussels, to create a seafood medley in the soup. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of seafood you choose to ensure it is properly cooked. The fragrant lemongrass and aromatic spices will complement a variety of seafood, allowing you to create your unique twist on this flavorful soup.