Name: Coconut Lime Noodle Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 32 oz low sodium chicken broth; 2 inches ginger, cut into 1/4 inch thick; 13.5 oz coconut milk; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced; 8 medium-sized shrimp, shelled and deveined; 3 tablespoons fish sauce, or salt to taste; 2 teaspoons light brown sugar, or regular sugar; 4 Thai chilies, stems off; 6 tablespoons fresh lime juice, approximately 3-4 limes; 2 cups bean sprouts, optional; 3/4 pound fresh thick rice noodle; 3/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves

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There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of Coconut Lime Noodle Soup that instantly transports me to a tropical paradise. I remember the first time I tried this dish, sitting on a breezy terrace, the sun setting, and the delightful aromas wafting through the air. The combination of fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and soothing warmth created a comforting experience that I couldn’t forget. Every slurp of the silky noodles and vibrant broth reminded me of the beauty of simple, wholesome cooking. This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a moment of joy, a celebration of flavors, and a perfect antidote to the chilly winter nights.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
360 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife

This Coconut Lime Noodle Soup is not only easy to make, but it also brings together an array of ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Let me share with you why this recipe stands out.

Why This Coconut Lime Noodle Soup Works

Rich, Flavorful Broth

The base of this soup is a luscious broth made from chicken broth and coconut milk. The fusion of these two ingredients creates a rich and creamy texture that’s simply irresistible. The addition of ginger adds a zesty kick, making every sip feel warm and comforting.

Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients like cilantro, lime juice, and Thai chilies elevates this dish from good to extraordinary. The bright flavors of lime and the freshness of cilantro offer a delightful contrast to the richness of the broth, bringing each bite to life.

Quick and Easy

Who doesn’t love a recipe that comes together in no time? This Coconut Lime Noodle Soup can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. You can have a delicious and hearty meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

Customizable to Your Taste

This soup is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust it to your taste preferences, whether you want it spicier with more chilies or lighter by adding more veggies like bean sprouts. The options are endless, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.

Family-Friendly Dish

This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike. The combination of noodles, chicken, and shrimp makes it filling and satisfying for the whole family. Plus, it’s a fun way to introduce new flavors to your little ones!

Shopping List for Coconut Lime Noodle Soup

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this Coconut Lime Noodle Soup a delightful dish. Each component plays a vital role, balancing flavors and textures to create a bowl of happiness. The key players here are the coconut milk for creaminess, the lime juice for zest, and the chicken broth for a savory base.

32oz (907g) low sodium chicken broth: This is the foundation of your soup, providing a savory depth that enhances all the other flavors.
2 inches (5cm) ginger, cut into 1/4 inch thick: Fresh ginger adds a warming spice to the broth, making every spoonful fragrant and comforting.
13.5oz (385g) coconut milk: The star ingredient that brings creaminess and a subtle sweetness to the soup.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced: Tender strips of chicken add protein and heartiness, making this soup filling.
8 medium-sized shrimp, shelled and deveined: Shrimp adds a delightful seafood element, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
3 tablespoons fish sauce, or salt to taste: Provides umami depth and saltiness, balancing the sweetness of the coconut milk.
2 teaspoons light brown sugar, or regular sugar: A hint of sweetness helps round out the flavors.
4 Thai chilies, stems off: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, these chilies can be adjusted based on your spice tolerance.
6 tablespoons fresh lime juice, approximately 3-4 limes: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds acidity and brightness to the soup.
2 cups bean sprouts, optional: These add crunch and freshness, making the soup even more enjoyable.
3/4 pound (340g) fresh thick rice noodle: Soft and chewy, these noodles are perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
3/4 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves: A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor!

How to Make Coconut Lime Noodle Soup

Making this Coconut Lime Noodle Soup is a straightforward process, perfect for any home cook. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a steaming bowl of goodness ready in no time.

Start by preparing the broth. In a large pot, pour in the chicken broth and add the sliced ginger. Turn the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. This step sets the stage for the soup, allowing the flavors of the ginger to infuse the broth.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the ginger to soften and its flavor to permeate the broth.
Next, add the coconut milk to the pot and stir it in. Bring the mixture back to a simmer. The coconut milk will create a creamy texture and add a delightful sweetness.
Now it’s time to add the protein. Gently transfer the thinly sliced chicken and shrimp into the simmering broth. Cook for approximately 3 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
Slowly stir in the fish sauce and brown sugar. These ingredients will add depth and balance to the soup, enhancing the flavors of the broth.
Next, add the Thai chilies, lime juice, and optional bean sprouts. Stir everything together to combine. The chili will infuse the soup with warmth, while the lime juice adds brightness.
Finally, toss in the fresh rice noodles and stir them into the soup. Let everything cook together for another minute or so, just until the noodles are heated through.
Serve the soup immediately. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. This last step adds a fresh, herby finish that brightens the entire dish.
Enjoy your homemade Coconut Lime Noodle Soup hot, with a squeeze of extra lime if desired. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing the right noodles: Use fresh rice noodles for the best texture. If using dried noodles, cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the soup.
Adjusting spice levels: Feel free to modify the number of Thai chilies based on your heat preference. You can even remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
Storing leftovers: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Enhancing flavors: Adding a splash of lime juice just before serving brightens the flavors. Don’t skip this step!

Tips and Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this Coconut Lime Noodle Soup to make it your own. Here are some tips and variations to consider:

Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Freezing: You can freeze the soup, but it’s best to do so without the noodles. Cook the noodles fresh when you reheat the soup for the best texture.
Pairing: This soup pairs beautifully with fresh spring rolls or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Additional veggies: Feel free to add in other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
Herb variations: Besides cilantro, you can also try adding mint or basil for a different flavor profile.
Protein options: Substitute the chicken and shrimp with tofu or other seafood options for a vegetarian or pescatarian version.

What Goes Well With This Coconut Lime Noodle Soup

This Coconut Lime Noodle Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various settings. Here are some great pairing ideas:

Fresh Spring Rolls: Serve with light and crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables and shrimp for a delightful appetizer.
Green Salad: A simple green salad with a citrus dressing pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the soup.
Occasions: This soup is ideal for cozy winter dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the noodles’ texture.
Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy this soup during the colder months for a warm, comforting meal, or serve it chilled in summer with a fresh salad.

FAQ

Coconut Lime Noodle Soup is special because it combines rich, creamy flavors with fresh, zesty ingredients. The coconut milk provides a luxurious texture, while the lime juice and cilantro add brightness and freshness to each bowl. It’s a comforting dish perfect for chilly days!

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of Coconut Lime Noodle Soup, simply replace the chicken and shrimp with your favorite vegetables or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and consider adding ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, and bok choy for added flavor and texture.

This delicious soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container. When reheating, it’s best to do so slowly on the stovetop to preserve the texture of the noodles. You can add a little extra broth or water if it thickens too much.

There are wonderful side dishes that pair perfectly with Coconut Lime Noodle Soup. Fresh spring rolls or a simple green salad are excellent accompaniments. You can also consider adding some crusty bread for dipping, making your meal complete and satisfying.

Conclusion

The Coconut Lime Noodle Soup is a delightful dish that perfectly balances rich and fresh flavors. It’s simple to make yet incredibly satisfying, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try tonight; I promise you won’t regret it!