Coconut Vegetable Soup

Indonesian Coconut Vegetable Soup Recipe

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Coconut Vegetable Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any time of the year. This soup is packed with a variety of vegetables and coconut milk, giving it a rich and creamy texture. The combination of flavors in this soup is sure to please your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.

History

Coconut Vegetable Soup has its origins in Southeast Asian cuisine, where coconut milk is a common ingredient used in many dishes. This soup is a popular choice for those looking for a light and healthy meal that is also full of flavor. The addition of vegetables adds a nutritious element to the dish, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

2 shallots, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp minced gingerroot
0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
2 tbsp peanut oil
1 carrot, julienned
1 medium zucchini, julienned
1.5 cup napa cabbage, shredded
1 celery rib, finely sliced
4 cup chicken stock
6 oz (170 g) unsweetened coconut milk
1 stalk lemongrass, trimmed, pounded, and finely chopped
0.5 tsp turmeric
salt (to taste)
2.5 cup fresh bean sprouts
fried red onion flakes (for garnish; optional)
lemon wedges (for garnish; optional)

How to prepare

Heat oil in a saucepan. Add shallots, garlic, ginger, and crushed red peppers. Cook until it becomes aromatic.
Add the carrots, zucchini, cabbage, and celery. Stir to coat the veggies with spices.
Add the stock, coconut milk, lemongrass, and turmeric.
Simmer the soup, uncovered, on low heat for 15–20 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked to your liking.
To serve, place a small handful of bean sprouts in the bottom of each bowl.
Top the bean sprouts with the soup and garnish with onion flakes. Serve with a squeeze of lemon wedge.

Variations

Add tofu or shrimp for added protein.
Use different vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or snow peas.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to change up the flavor profile of the soup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to mince the shallots, garlic, and ginger finely to ensure that they distribute evenly throughout the soup.

- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

- For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup before serving.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this soup to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Coconut Vegetable Soup with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version of this soup.

- Substitute coconut oil for peanut oil for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Coconut Vegetable Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Coconut Vegetable Soup with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or Thai basil, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Coconut Vegetable Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 5g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and coconut milk.

Summary

Coconut Vegetable Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for those looking for a light and satisfying meal.

Summary

Coconut Vegetable Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with a variety of vegetables and coconut milk, this soup is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied. Enjoy this flavorful and comforting soup with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Coconut Vegetable Soup. It was a warm summer day, and my dear friend Mary had invited me over for a lunch date in her garden. As we sat at her patio table, surrounded by blooming flowers and chirping birds, she brought out a steaming pot of soup that smelled absolutely divine.

I watched in awe as she ladled out the creamy, fragrant soup into bowls, topping each one with a sprinkling of fresh herbs. Mary explained to me that the soup was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. She went on to tell me about how her grandmother used to make it for her when she was a little girl, and how it always brought back fond memories of her childhood.

As I took my first spoonful of the soup, I was immediately transported back in time to my own childhood. I remembered my own grandmother, who was an amazing cook and had a vast collection of recipes from all over the world. She would spend hours in the kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and flavors, always eager to try something new.

I grew up watching my grandmother cook, soaking up all of her knowledge and expertise like a sponge. She taught me how to chop vegetables with precision, how to season dishes just right, and most importantly, how to cook with love and passion. Her kitchen was always filled with the most incredible aromas, and I would often find myself sneaking in to taste whatever she was cooking.

One day, as I was helping her prepare dinner, she handed me a tattered old recipe card and told me that it was time for me to learn how to make Coconut Vegetable Soup. She explained that this soup was a family favorite, and that it had been passed down through the generations. She showed me how to gather all of the ingredients, from the fresh vegetables to the fragrant coconut milk, and together we set to work creating a delicious meal.

The process of making the soup was a labor of love. We chopped, diced, and stirred, adding in spices and seasonings until the flavors were just right. The kitchen filled with the rich aroma of coconut and vegetables, and I knew that this soup would be something special.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, my grandmother watched me with a smile on her face. She could see the pride and joy in my eyes as I took my first bite of the Coconut Vegetable Soup. It was absolutely delicious, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me, knowing that I had learned a valuable recipe that would be cherished for years to come.

Since that day, I have made Coconut Vegetable Soup countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this beloved dish to the next generation. Every time I make the soup, I am reminded of my grandmother and the special bond we shared in the kitchen.

In a world filled with fast food and convenience meals, it is important to remember the value of homemade cooking and family recipes. They are not just a source of nourishment, but a way to connect with our past and create lasting memories with loved ones. I am grateful for the lessons my grandmother taught me in the kitchen, and for the delicious recipes that continue to bring joy to my heart. And so, I will always cherish the memory of the first time I saw the recipe for Coconut Vegetable Soup, and the legacy of love and tradition that it represents.