Quick Coconut Curry Soup with Dumplings
Table of Contents
There’s something inherently magical about the sound of a bubbling pot on the stove, isn’t there? It transports me back to my childhood, where the kitchen was a warm haven filled with the comforting aroma of my grandmother’s cooking. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that embodies that same comforting warmth: Quick Coconut Curry Soup with Dumplings. This dish is not only a hug in a bowl but also a testament to the joy of homemade comfort food.
As someone who cherishes the moments spent in the kitchen with family, I adore how a simple recipe like this can bring us together. Imagine the laughter as you gather around the table, the steam from the soup swirling upwards as each bite envelops your senses with warmth and flavor. This is what Easy Peasy Recipes is all about—making cooking feel simple and joyful, turning everyday ingredients into dishes that spark joy and create lasting memories.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
Quick and Convenient: With a prep time that fits into any busy schedule, this coconut curry soup is perfect for those cozy evenings when you want something quick yet comforting. You can easily prep the ingredients ahead of time, chopping vegetables and measuring out spices, which can make the cooking process even faster when you’re ready to make the soup.
Family-Friendly: The rich, savory broth combined with tender dumplings is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. Consider making a dumpling bar where family members can add their favorite fillings to the dumplings before cooking.
Versatile and Customizable: Whether you’re a spice lover or prefer milder flavors, this recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your taste. Add more chili oil for heat or a dash of lime juice for zest. For those who enjoy a protein boost, feel free to toss in some cooked shredded chicken or tofu cubes.
Nourishing and Satisfying: Packed with wholesome ingredients like coconut milk and vegetables, this soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body. You can add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to increase the nutritional content.
A Taste of Nostalgia: For many, the combination of curry and dumplings evokes fond memories of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. Let this dish remind you of simpler times and cherished family moments. Customize the dumplings with traditional fillings from your heritage for a personal touch.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Embarking on this culinary adventure requires just a few essential tools that most home cooks already have in their kitchens. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Heavy-Bottom Pot: A sturdy pot is crucial for even cooking, especially when caramelizing onions and simmering the soup to perfection. A Dutch oven works perfectly for this task due to its excellent heat distribution.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for prepping your veggies and garnishes with ease. A mandoline slicer can also be handy for uniformly thin slices.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: To ensure all ingredients are perfectly balanced for that perfect flavor harmony. Having a digital scale can also help with precise measurements, especially for the dumplings.
- Ladle: For serving the soup generously into bowls, ensuring each portion is filled with both broth and dumplings. A slotted spoon can be useful if you want to drain excess broth when serving.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
INGREDIENTS
For the soup base:
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 bag frozen vegan dumplings (12 to 15 pieces)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1 tbsp avocado oil
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 4 scallions
– 1 tbsp minced garlic
– 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for best flavor)
– 1/2 cup chopped cremini mushrooms
– 1 cup diced onion
– 1 tbsp red Thai curry paste (I use Thai Kitchen brand)
For serving and garnish:
– 2 to 3 tsp chili oil
– 1 tbsp chopped cilantro (fresh)
– 1 tbsp sliced scallion greens
– 1 tbsp crunchy garlic
INSTRUCTIONS
- Heat avocado oil in a heavy-bottom pot over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, the white parts of the scallions (finely chopped), and minced garlic. Sprinkle in the salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and begin to caramelize. A pinch of sugar can help speed up caramelization and enhance flavor.
- Add the chopped cremini mushrooms to the pot with the softened aromatics. Sauté until the mushrooms are tender and any released moisture has mostly evaporated. This step intensifies their flavor and adds depth to the soup.
- Stir in the red Thai curry paste, sugar, and soy sauce. Sauté for about one minute to toast the paste and dissolve the seasonings. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, ensuring all the flavors meld together.
- Pour in the coconut milk and stir well until fully combined. Bring the soup back up to a gentle simmer. To avoid curdling, stir continuously as you pour the coconut milk.
- Add the bag of frozen vegan dumplings directly into the simmering soup. Cook over medium-low heat for about 7 minutes, or until the dumplings have thawed and are heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Ladle the hot soup and dumplings into bowls. Garnish each serving with chili oil, sliced scallion greens, chopped fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of crunchy garlic for extra flavor and texture.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 20 minutes • Calories: 320 per serving • Servings: 4
Note: Always taste and adjust seasoning to your liking before serving. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
This coconut curry soup doesn’t just delight the senses—it’s also packed with nutritional goodness:
- Coconut Milk: This creamy, plant-based milk is rich in healthy fats that keep you full and satisfied. It adds a luscious texture and subtle sweetness to the soup. It’s also a great source of iron and magnesium.
- Cremini Mushrooms: Loaded with antioxidants, these tasty fungi enhance the soup’s umami flavor while supporting immune function. They are also a good source of B vitamins.
- Scallions and Garlic: Both are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and are essential for building layers of flavor in the soup. Garlic, in particular, has been linked to heart health benefits.
- Red Thai Curry Paste: This vibrant paste packs a punch of spices and herbs, boosting your metabolism and adding a delightful kick to the dish. It often contains ingredients like lemongrass and galangal, which have additional health benefits.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
While this soup is a meal on its own, pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate your dining experience:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich broth, a slice of freshly baked bread makes a delightful companion. Try a loaf of sourdough for its tangy flavor that complements the soup.
- Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the coconut curry soup. Add some nuts or seeds for crunch.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Serve alongside the soup for a more substantial meal, where the rice absorbs the aromatic broth beautifully. You can also try basmati rice for its fragrant aroma.
For more pairing ideas, check out our Quick Dinner Sides post for inspiration.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
Leftovers of this coconut curry soup are a true blessing, making for a quick and delicious meal in a pinch. Here’s how to store and savor them:
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot. Stir well to ensure the coconut milk is fully reincorporated.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze, do so without the dumplings, as they may become mushy. Freeze the broth in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Add fresh dumplings when reheating to maintain texture.
- Refreshing Leftovers: Brighten up your reheated soup by adding freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice right before serving. A drizzle of chili oil can also add a fresh kick.
As we come to a close, I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen, just as it does mine. Cooking is more than just a necessity; it’s a way to connect with our past and create new memories. So gather your loved ones, share stories, and enjoy the comforts of home-cooked meals that nourish the soul.
Pin this Easy Peasy recipe!
Love this recipe? Pin the image below to your favorite Pinterest boards and bring a little Easy Peasy comfort to your kitchen whenever you need it.
Quick Coconut Curry Soup with Dumplings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat avocado oil in a heavy-bottom pot over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, the white parts of the scallions (finely chopped), and minced garlic. Sprinkle in the salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and begin to caramelize.
- Add the chopped cremini mushrooms to the pot with the softened aromatics. Sauté until the mushrooms are tender and any released moisture has mostly evaporated.
- Stir in the red Thai curry paste, sugar, and soy sauce. Sauté for about one minute to toast the paste and dissolve the seasonings. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Pour in the coconut milk and stir well until fully combined. Bring the soup back up to a gentle simmer. For a richer taste, I always use full-fat coconut milk.
- Add the bag of frozen vegan dumplings directly into the simmering soup. Cook over medium-low heat for about 7 minutes, or until the dumplings have thawed and are heated through.
- Ladle the hot soup and dumplings into bowls. Garnish each serving with chili oil, sliced scallion greens, chopped fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of crunchy garlic for extra flavor and texture.
