Craving a bowl of something warm, comforting, and packed with vibrant flavors? This Thai vegetarian soup recipe is exactly what you need!
Thai cuisine is celebrated for its harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes, and this soup perfectly captures that essence without the use of any meat or seafood. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe offers a delicious and nutritious option that’s both easy to make and deeply satisfying.
Loaded with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a creamy coconut milk base, this soup is a feast for the senses. It’s ideal for a cozy dinner at home or even as a starter for your next dinner party.
Plus, with its versatile ingredients, you can easily customize it to your taste. Let’s dive into this delightful Thai vegetarian soup that will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Thai vegetarian soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will excite your palate while being gentle on your stomach. Here’s why it stands out:
- Rich and Creamy: The coconut milk brings a luscious creaminess that complements the tangy lime and spicy chili perfectly.
- Fresh and Vibrant Ingredients: Fresh herbs like cilantro and basil add brightness, while vegetables contribute crunch and nutrition.
- Easy to Customize: You can swap vegetables based on what you have on hand or adjust the spice level to suit your preference.
- Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from wholesome vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1-2 red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button mushrooms work well)
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk, full-fat for creaminess
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh Thai basil leaves (optional but recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice noodles or jasmine rice, to serve (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (for ginger)
- Ladle
- Bowl for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic, ginger, and chilies: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced red chilies. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the sliced red bell pepper, mushrooms, carrot, and zucchini to the pot. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- Pour in the broth and coconut milk: Slowly add the vegetable broth followed by the coconut milk. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season the soup: Add soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Stir well and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Adjust flavor and finish: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro and Thai basil leaves.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls over cooked rice noodles or jasmine rice if desired. Garnish with extra herbs or a wedge of lime for added freshness.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a stalk of lemongrass or kaffir lime leaves while simmering the soup, removing them before serving.”
- Protein Boost: Add tofu cubes or cooked chickpeas for a protein-packed version.
- Vegetable Swaps: Feel free to include baby corn, snap peas, or bok choy for more variety.
- Make it Spicy: Increase the number of chilies or add a dash of chili paste or sriracha.
- Broth Options: Use mushroom broth for a richer umami taste or homemade vegetable stock for extra freshness.
- Vegan Version: Ensure soy sauce is vegan-friendly or substitute with coconut aminos.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 210 |
Protein | 5g |
Fat | 14g |
Carbohydrates | 18g |
Fiber | 4g |
Sugar | 6g |
Sodium | 620mg |
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and depend on exact ingredient brands and quantities.
Serving Suggestions
This Thai vegetarian soup pairs wonderfully with light and fresh sides to balance its rich flavors.
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles to make it a more filling meal.
- Accompany with a side of fresh spring rolls or vegetable dumplings for variety.
- Add a crisp cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar and a hint of chili for a refreshing contrast.
- Top with crushed peanuts or toasted coconut flakes for an added crunch.
Conclusion
This Thai vegetarian soup recipe offers a beautiful harmony of flavors that is both comforting and exciting. Its creamy coconut base, combined with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, makes it a perfect dish for any season.
Whether you’re new to Thai cooking or a seasoned enthusiast, this soup is easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable to your preferences. Plus, it’s a nourishing, plant-based option that supports healthy eating without compromising on taste.
For more delicious vegetarian recipes that complement this soup, check out our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating, or treat yourself with something sweet like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
Looking to bake some fresh bread to accompany your meal? Try the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.
Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every spoonful of this delightful Thai vegetarian soup!
📖 Recipe Card: Thai Soup Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired vegetarian soup packed with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs. Perfect for a light and healthy meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup tofu, cubed
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat vegetable broth in a pot over medium heat.
- Add garlic, ginger, and red curry paste; stir and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add mushrooms and carrot; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour in coconut milk and soy sauce; bring to a gentle boil.
- Add tofu and spinach; cook for another 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat, stir in lime juice.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 12 g
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