Description
This Easy Coconut Shrimp & Tofu Curry Noodle Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, silky tofu, and fresh vegetables in a rich and creamy coconut curry broth. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it balances savory spices with the sweetness of coconut milk and the heartiness of noodles to deliver a restaurant-quality soup at home.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
For the Protein and Vegetables
- 8 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 7 ounces firm tofu, cubed
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red or yellow)
- 1 cup snap peas or snow peas
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
For the Noodles
- 6 ounces rice noodles or vermicelli noodles
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Chopped peanuts (optional)
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles: Soak the rice noodles according to package instructions until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
- Add Curry Paste: Stir in the red curry paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Create Broth: Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Season the Soup: Add soy sauce and brown sugar, stir to incorporate the seasonings.
- Add Vegetables and Tofu: Add the bell peppers, snap peas, and cubed tofu to the pot. Simmer for 5 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp and tofu is heated through.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Finish with Lime Juice and Green Onions: Stir in fresh lime juice and chopped green onions to brighten the flavors.
- Assemble the Soup: Divide the prepared noodles into serving bowls and ladle the hot coconut curry soup with shrimp, tofu, and vegetables over the top.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts if using, and lime wedges. Serve immediately hot for best flavor.
Notes
- Firm tofu holds its shape better in soup but silken tofu can be used for a softer texture.
- Adjust curry paste amount to your preferred spice level.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if needed for gluten-free diet.
- For vegetarian version, omit shrimp and increase tofu or add mushrooms.
- Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on stovetop.