Lemongrass Shrimp Noodle Soup
Lemongrass Shrimp Noodle Soup
Embark on a culinary journey to Southeast Asia with this exquisite Lemongrass Shrimp Noodle Soup, a testament to the region's vibrant flavors and aromatic spices. This traditional seafood soup artfully combines the delicate sweetness of plump shrimp with the distinctive, zesty fragrance of lemongrass, a cornerstone of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. The clear, savory broth, often simmered with ginger and fish sauce, delivers an invigorating warmth, subtly spiced with fresh chili and balanced by the bright, citrusy notes of fresh lime. Historically, noodle soups like this provided nourishing and economical meals throughout Southeast Asia, evolving with local ingredients and preferences. Today, it remains a beloved comfort food, celebrated for its satisfying depth and refreshing character. The inclusion of delicate rice noodles adds a wonderful textural contrast, making it a wholesome and fulfilling dish. Garnish with an abundance of fresh herbs like cilantro and mint to elevate its aromatic profile. This truly healthy seafood soup is perfect for a light lunch or a comforting dinner, offering an authentic taste experience that is both invigorating and deeply rewarding.
- Preparation time
- 25 min
- Cooking time
- 20 min
- Total time
- 45 min
- Servings
- 4
Instructions
Preparation
- 1Prepare the rice noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- 2If using whole lemongrass stalks, remove the tough outer layers. Bruise the stalks with the back of a knife or thinly slice them. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
- 3Thinly slice the chili and shallots. Chop the fresh cilantro and mint for garnish.
Cooking
- 1Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced shallots, and lemongrass. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- 2Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it gently simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This infusion creates the core of your vibrant seafood soup.
- 3Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, sliced chili, and sugar. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; you're looking for a balance of savory, sour, and spicy.
- 4Add the shrimp to the simmering broth. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
Serving
- 1Divide the prepared rice noodles among serving bowls.
- 2Ladle the hot broth and shrimp over the noodles.
- 3Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and mint. Serve immediately and enjoy the authentic flavors of this delightful seafood soup.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 351 kcal
- Protein
- 25 g
- Fat
- 9 g
- Carbs
- 42 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 351 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
Tips
- For extra depth, toast a few dried shrimp or dried scallops in the pot before adding aromatics.
- To intensify lemongrass flavor, slice it thinly rather than bruising it, allowing more surface area to release its oils.
- Offer extra lime wedges, fish sauce, and sliced chilies on the side for guests to customize their bowls to taste.