Are you looking for a delicious and comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further! Coconut milk-based soups are incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit your taste preferences. From spicy and savory to creamy and sweet, these 18 recipes showcase the incredible versatility of coconut milk as an ingredient.
Whether you’re in the mood for a warm and cozy Thai-inspired soup or a light and refreshing Vietnamese seafood broth, there’s something on this list for everyone. And with flavors ranging from the bold and spicy to the mellow and comforting, you’re sure to find a recipe that becomes your new favorite go-to.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world, exploring different cultures and cuisines through their unique uses of coconut milk in soup recipes. From classic Tom Kha Gai to creamy pumpkin soup, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the rich and creamy texture that coconut milk provides.
Stay tuned for more details on these 18 mouthwatering recipes!
Thai Coconut Milk Soup with Lemongrass and Ginger
This creamy and aromatic soup is a staple of Thai cuisine, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or as a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add coconut milk and fish sauce (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
3. Season with lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Ladle into bowls and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Coconut Milk and Pumpkin Soup
Warm up with this creamy, spicy soup that combines the comfort of pumpkin with the exotic flavors of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeño peppers, chopped (for added heat)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add pumpkin, coconut milk, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer soup to a blender in batches and blend, then return to pot.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add chopped jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Coconut Milk and Mushroom Soup
This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of coconut milk with the earthiness of mushrooms, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 8 minutes.
3. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vietnamese Coconut Milk Seafood Soup
This rich and creamy soup is a popular Vietnamese dish that combines the flavors of coconut milk, seafood, and aromatic spices. With its comforting warmth and vibrant colors, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cleaned and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 can coconut milk
– 4 cups fish stock or water
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the seafood, coconut milk, fish stock or water, and curry powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Coconut Milk and Sweet Potato Soup with Turmeric
This creamy soup combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warmth of turmeric, all wrapped up in a rich coconut milk broth. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little oil until softened. Add turmeric and cook for 1 minute.
3. Scoop cooked sweet potatoes into the pot, add coconut milk and broth. Bring to a simmer and puree with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Indian Coconut Milk and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a staple of Indian cuisine, made rich and creamy by the addition of coconut milk and aromatic spices. Serve warm with naan bread or over basmati rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 4 cups water
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse lentils and soak in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and add lentils to a large pot with 4 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, puree chopped onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using).
4. Add the spice mixture to the cooked lentil soup and stir well.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Coconut Milk and Chicken Tom Kha Gai
A creamy and flavorful Thai soup made with coconut milk, chicken, lemongrass, and galangal. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 piece galangal (or ginger), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal, garlic, curry paste, fish sauce, and palm sugar.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Coconut Milk and Corn Chowder
This rich and comforting chowder is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal. The combination of sweet corn, creamy coconut milk, and aromatic spices will surely become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in corn kernels; cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let chowder simmer for 10-15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk and Butternut Squash Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of sweet butternut squash and rich coconut milk, ideal for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds and pulp.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
5. Add roasted squash, broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
7. Stir in coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Coconut Milk and Spinach Soup with Garlic
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy coconut milk, nutritious spinach, and aromatic garlic. Serve warm as a soothing treat on a chilly day or enjoy chilled as a refreshing summer soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
3. Pour in coconut milk, vegetable broth, and cumin (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Milk and Carrot Ginger Soup
This vibrant orange soup is a perfect blend of warm spices and creamy coconut milk, making it a soothing and satisfying meal for any time of the year. The combination of roasted carrots and fresh ginger adds depth and a hint of sweetness to this comforting soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss carrots with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and grated ginger in 1 tablespoon olive oil until softened.
4. Add roasted carrots, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and blend soup until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Milk and Shrimp Bisque
This creamy bisque combines succulent shrimp with the rich flavor of coconut milk, perfect for a warm and comforting soup on a chilly evening. With its subtle tropical twist, it’s sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Stir in coconut milk, fish stock or water, and paprika. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let bisque cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk and Chickpea Curry Soup
Coconut Milk and Chickpea Curry Soup Recipe
Warm up with this creamy and comforting curry soup that combines the richness of coconut milk with the nutty flavor of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup coconut milk
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
5. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, water or broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk and Lemongrass Broth with Tofu
This aromatic broth is a perfect blend of creamy coconut milk, fragrant lemongrass, and silky tofu. Serve it as a comforting and nutritious meal or use it as a base for your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine coconut milk, lemongrass, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Add tofu and soy sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the tofu is heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Milk and Tomato Basil Soup
Coconut Milk and Tomato Basil Soup Recipe
This creamy soup combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the richness of coconut milk, finished with a hint of basil’s fresh flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes (or crushed canned tomatoes) and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in dried basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Coconut Milk and Broccoli Soup with Lime
This refreshing soup combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the nutty flavor of broccoli, finished with a burst of citrus from fresh lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14 oz) can coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors meld together.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Stir in freshly squeezed lime juice.
7. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of lime zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk and Cauliflower Soup with Cumin
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired flavors, featuring roasted cauliflower, aromatic cumin, and the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little water until softened. Add cumin and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add roasted cauliflower, coconut milk, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Coconut Milk and Red Curry Vegetable Soup
Coconut Milk and Red Curry Vegetable Soup Recipe
This creamy and aromatic soup is a perfect blend of Thai flavors, with the richness of coconut milk and the spiciness of red curry paste. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red curry paste
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes)
– 4 cups coconut milk
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Stir in red curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables, coconut milk, water or broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the creamy goodness of coconut milk soup recipes, perfect for any occasion! From spicy to sweet, this collection of 18 recipes offers a variety of flavors and textures. Discover Thai-inspired soups like Coconut Milk Soup with Lemongrass and Ginger, or try comforting options like Creamy Coconut Milk and Mushroom Soup. Explore international flavors with Vietnamese Coconut Milk Seafood Soup, Indian Coconut Milk and Lentil Soup, and more! With ingredients ranging from sweet potatoes to shrimp, there’s something for everyone in this diverse list of creamy coconut milk soups.
