Spicy Coconut Shrimp Soup

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1-2 tablespoons red curry paste (adjust to taste)
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cups baby spinach
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add Curry Paste:
Add the red curry paste to the pot, stirring well to combine with the aromatics.
Cook for 1-2 minutes until the paste is fragrant.

3. Add Coconut Milk and Broth:
Pour in the coconut milk and chicken or vegetable broth.
Stir in the fish sauce (if using) and brown sugar, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. Add Vegetables:
Add the sliced red bell pepper and mushrooms to the pot.
Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted.

6. Season and Serve:
Remove the soup from heat and stir in the lime juice.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

7. Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips:
Adjust Spice Level: Add more curry paste or some red pepper flakes for additional heat if desired.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like snap peas or bok choy for extra nutrition.
Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Enjoy this flavorful and warming Spicy Coconut Shrimp Soup for a comforting meal!