Indonesian Shrimp Soup

Indonesian Shrimp Soup Recipe - Authentic & Flavorful | Food Recipes

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Indonesian Shrimp Soup is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the freshness of shrimp and spices. This soup is a popular dish in Indonesian cuisine and is perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.

History

Indonesian Shrimp Soup, also known as Soto Udang, has been a traditional dish in Indonesia for many years. It is often served as a special dish during celebrations and gatherings. The combination of shrimp, coconut milk, and spices creates a unique and delicious flavor that is loved by many.

Ingredients

0.25 cup rice sticks, broken up
2 tbsp peanut oil
6 shallots (or an onion), thinly sliced
3 cloves of garlic, crushed
2 inches piece of fresh ginger, grated
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp turmeric
2 cups fish stock
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup shrimp, cleaned, peeled, and split
0.5 cup bean sprouts
salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

4 scallions, chopped

How to prepare

Break the rice sticks into a pan and cover them with boiling water for 5 minutes. Then, strain them.
Reserve the rice sticks.
Fry the shallots and garlic in the oil for a few minutes, then add the ginger, coriander, and turmeric.
Pour in the stock, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
When ready to serve, add the reserved rice sticks and the coconut milk. Bring it to a simmer for about 5 minutes. (Note: If you bring the coconut milk to a boil, it will affect the coconut taste.)
Toss in the shrimp and bean sprouts and simmer for 5 more minutes.
Adjust the seasoning, ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with chopped scallions.

Variations

Add vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a different protein option.
Spice up the soup with chili peppers or hot sauce for a fiery kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to develop fully.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.

- Garnish the soup with fresh herbs or lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Indonesian Shrimp Soup can be served as a main dish with steamed rice or crusty bread on the side. It can also be enjoyed as a starter or appetizer before a larger meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering: Simmer the soup gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

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

- Garnishing: Garnish the soup with fresh herbs or lime wedges before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Rice noodles can be used instead of rice sticks.

- Vegetable oil can be used instead of peanut oil.

- Chicken broth can be used instead of fish stock.

Make Ahead Tips

The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in individual bowls garnished with chopped scallions and a lime wedge on the side. - Sprinkle some chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Indonesian Shrimp Soup with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread.

- Pair the soup with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Total Calories per serving: 350

Carbohydrates

- Rice sticks: 0.25 cup

- Coconut milk: 1 cup

- Bean sprouts: 0.5 cup

- Total Carbohydrates per serving: 25g

Fats

- Peanut oil: 2 tbsp

- Coconut milk: 1 cup

- Total Fats per serving: 20g

Proteins

- Shrimp: 1 cup

- Total Proteins per serving: 15g

Vitamins and minerals

Garlic: Contains Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Manganese

- Ginger: Contains Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Iron

- Coriander: Contains Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and Potassium

Alergens

Contains shellfish (shrimp)

- May contain peanuts (peanut oil)

Summary

Indonesian Shrimp Soup is a nutritious dish that is rich in proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Indonesian Shrimp Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this flavorful and aromatic soup with your family and friends today!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Indonesian Shrimp Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village on the coast of Indonesia. My grandmother, who was an amazing cook, had learned the recipe from a friend who had traveled to Indonesia and brought back the flavors of the local cuisine.

I can still recall the scent of the fragrant spices that filled our kitchen as my grandmother prepared the soup. The aroma of lemongrass, ginger, and garlic wafted through the air, mingling with the smell of fresh shrimp and vegetables. It was a scent that instantly transported me to the bustling markets of Indonesia, where vendors sold their wares amid a symphony of sounds and colors.

As my grandmother chopped and stirred, she shared stories of her own travels to Indonesia, where she had sampled the local cuisine and learned about the traditional cooking techniques. She spoke of the vibrant street food stalls that lined the busy streets, offering a tantalizing array of dishes that showcased the rich flavors and spices of the region.

I watched in awe as my grandmother worked her magic in the kitchen, turning simple ingredients into a masterpiece of flavors and textures. She explained the importance of balancing sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors in Indonesian cooking, and how each ingredient played a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of tastes.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I eagerly helped my grandmother prepare the garnishes – fresh cilantro, sliced chilies, and a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors. When the soup was finally ready, we sat down together at the table and savored each spoonful, savoring the complex layers of flavor that danced on our tongues.

From that day on, Indonesian Shrimp Soup became a staple in our household, a dish that we would prepare for special occasions and family gatherings. Over the years, I have made the recipe my own, adding my own twists and variations to suit my tastes and preferences.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of Indonesian cooking that was handed down to me by my grandmother. Each time I make the soup, I am reminded of the joy and love that went into creating it, and the memories of my grandmother that live on in every delicious spoonful.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that brought me to this moment, I am grateful for the gift of cooking that was passed down to me by my grandmother. Through her teachings, I have learned not just how to make delicious meals, but also how to create lasting memories and connections with those I love.

And so, as I prepare to make another batch of Indonesian Shrimp Soup, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of adventure, ready to embark on a culinary journey that will continue to nourish my body and soul for years to come.