Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup
Imagine a bowl of warm, fragrant Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup on a chilly day. This soup is a delightful twist on the classic chicken noodle soup, offering a comforting and more adventurous flavor profile. Filled with slurpable noodles, a mildly sweet and spicy broth, and packed with nourishing vegetables and hearty chicken, this dish is bound to become a favorite. Even if you’re not usually a fan of leftovers, this soup might just change your mind with its irresistible taste.
This recipe doesn’t require hours of simmering, making it a quick and nourishing meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. You start by browning sliced chicken breast, then sauté some carrot, onion, bell pepper, and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. Next, you introduce the bold flavors of red curry paste and freshly grated ginger, rounding it all off with creamy coconut milk and rich chicken broth. If you don’t have curry paste at home, it’s definitely worth grabbing a jar for this recipe—it’s versatile and stores well for future culinary adventures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Rich and comforting with a touch of spice
- Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large stockpot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1-2 small carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 white onion, halved and sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can coconut milk
- 4 oz rice noodles (1/2 package)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Lime juice, freshly squeezed, to taste
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large stockpot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden, 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and carrots to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in curry paste and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add chicken broth and coconut milk, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.
- Add rice noodles, fish sauce, and brown sugar, and cook until the noodles are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper, remove from heat, and stir in scallions, cilantro, basil, and lime juice. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red curry paste.
- For a thicker soup, let it simmer slightly longer before adding the noodles.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use other types of noodles? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite noodles, like udon or soba, for a different texture.
How can I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze it, but it’s best to do so without the noodles, as they can become mushy when thawed and reheated.
Conclusion
This Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience of rich, comforting flavors that will have you coming back for more. We hope you give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you. Share your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with in the comments below!