Spicy Thai Shrimp and Jasmine Rice Soup
Experience a burst of vibrant flavors with this Spicy Thai Shrimp and Jasmine Rice Soup. Inspired by traditional Thai cuisine, this delightful dish combines the richness of low-sodium chicken broth with the aromatic essence of lemongrass, a hint of heat from sriracha, and the sweetness of fresh ingredients. The tender shrimp and jasmine rice create a hearty yet light soup that is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or entertaining friends. This recipe is quick and easy, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Allow the fragrant herbs and spices to transport you to a bustling street market in Thailand, and enjoy every spoonful of this exquisite soup.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chicken broth
4 cups (low-sodium)
Sriracha sauce
1-2 teaspoons (chile-garlic sauce, to taste)
Celery
1 rib (thinly sliced on an angle)
Carrot
1 medium (peeled, quartered lengthwise, and thinly sliced)
Lemongrass
4 inches (thinly sliced after preparation)
Fish sauce
2 tablespoons
Sugar
2 teaspoons
Medium shrimp
1 lb (raw, peeled and deveined, without tails)
Cooked jasmine rice
2 cups (preferably freshly cooked)
Lemon
1 (fresh, juiced (about 3 to 4 tablespoons))
Fresh cilantro leaves
1/2 cup (coarsely chopped)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the lemongrass: remove the tough outer layers, cut off the root end, trim the stalk, and thinly slice it.
2
Chop the fresh cilantro and set aside. You can do this while the broth simmers.
3
In a medium saucepan, combine the chicken broth, sriracha sauce, sliced celery, and carrot. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4
Once simmering, add the sliced lemongrass, fish sauce, and sugar. Continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5
Next, stir in the raw shrimp and cooked jasmine rice. Simmer the soup just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
6
Remove the saucepan from heat and gently stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped cilantro.
7
Ladle the hot soup into warm bowls, garnish with additional cilantro if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the bursting flavors.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Thai Shrimp and Jasmine Rice Soup?
It is a vibrant, Thai-inspired dish combining low-sodium chicken broth, aromatic lemongrass, sriracha heat, tender shrimp, and jasmine rice.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Is this soup very spicy?
The spice level is moderate due to 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha, but it can be adjusted to your personal taste.
What type of shrimp should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of medium raw shrimp that are peeled and deveined with the tails removed.
Should the jasmine rice be cooked beforehand?
Yes, you should use 2 cups of already cooked jasmine rice, preferably freshly cooked.
How do I prepare the lemongrass?
Remove the tough outer layers, cut off the root end, trim the stalk, and thinly slice it.
Can I substitute the lemon juice?
While lemon is specified, lime juice is a common and delicious substitute in Thai cuisine.
How long does it take to cook the shrimp in the soup?
The shrimp only need about 2-3 minutes to simmer until they turn pink and opaque.
Why is low-sodium chicken broth recommended?
Low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness, especially since fish sauce also adds a salty profile.
What is the purpose of adding sugar to the broth?
The sugar helps balance the heat from the sriracha and the saltiness of the fish sauce.
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Yes, vegetables like bok choy, snap peas, or bell peppers would complement the existing celery and carrots well.
Is this soup gluten-free?
It can be if you ensure your chicken broth and fish sauce are certified gluten-free.
When do I add the fresh cilantro?
Add the chopped cilantro at the very end after removing the saucepan from the heat to maintain its fresh flavor.
How should I cut the carrots?
The carrots should be peeled, quartered lengthwise, and then thinly sliced.
What can I use if I don't have sriracha?
Any chile-garlic sauce or even red pepper flakes can be used as a substitute for heat.
How much lemon juice should I use?
Use the juice of one lemon, which is approximately 3 to 4 tablespoons.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is designed to be quick and easy, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and peeled before adding them to the simmering broth.
What does fish sauce add to the dish?
Fish sauce provides a deep, savory umami flavor that is essential to traditional Thai soups.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp are cooked when they lose their translucency and become pink and opaque.
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, but it will change the texture and flavor slightly; jasmine rice provides a specific floral aroma.
What size saucepan is needed?
A medium saucepan is sufficient for the 4-cup broth and other ingredients.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
It is best served immediately as the rice will continue to absorb liquid and may become mushy if stored in the broth.
How do I garnish the soup?
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh cilantro leaves.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is preparing the lemongrass by removing the outer layers and slicing it thinly.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients total.
Can I substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
While the nutritional breakdown isn't provided, carrots and celery add a small amount of fiber.
Is the lemongrass eaten?
Thinly sliced lemongrass can be eaten, but some prefer to leave larger pieces and remove them before serving due to their woody texture.
Can I add ginger to this recipe?
Yes, freshly grated ginger would be a great addition to the aromatic base of the soup.