Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup offers an irresistible combination of rich flavors and fresh ingredients, delivering a vibrant and exciting dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare, perfect for warming you up on a chilly day.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup

Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup is a zesty and aromatic soup that features juicy prawns in a flavorful broth infused with a variety of spices and fresh ingredients. It strikes a beautiful balance between spicy, sweet, and savory notes, thanks to the combination of chili, ginger, garlic, and aromatic herbs like lemongrass. This soup is not just about heat-it’s about a well-rounded flavor profile that excites the taste buds, making it a perfect dish for anyone looking to add a little heat and excitement to their meal.

Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To recreate Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup, here are the key ingredients you will need:

• Prawns (Shrimp): Fresh or frozen, deveined and peeled.
• Coconut Milk: For the rich, creamy base of the soup.
• Chicken or Vegetable Stock: To provide depth of flavor.
• Lemongrass: A fragrant herb that adds a subtle citrus note.
• Chilies: Fresh red chilies (or chili paste), depending on how spicy you want the soup.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and sharpness.
• Garlic: A flavor base that complements all the spices.
• Lime: For a citrusy zing that brightens up the soup.
• Fresh Herbs: Such as cilantro or Thai basil for garnish and added freshness.
• Fish Sauce: For that umami kick, which is characteristic of Southeast Asian cuisine.
• Soy Sauce: Adds saltiness and a deeper savory flavor.
• Onion: Often used as a base for many soups and adds a sweet undertone when cooked.
• Carrot: For a bit of sweetness and texture.
• Spring Onions: To finish the soup and add color and flavor.

Optional:

• Sugar: To balance out the heat with a touch of sweetness.
• Rice noodles or crispy fried onions for added texture, if desired.

Equipment Needed

The equipment required to make Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup is minimal but essential to ensure the soup is prepared properly:

• Large pot or saucepan: To cook the broth and simmer the ingredients together.
• Sharp knife and chopping board: For preparing all the fresh ingredients like garlic, chilies, and lemongrass.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir the soup as it simmers.
• Strainer or sieve: To strain out the solid bits from the broth if you prefer a smoother consistency.
• Ladle: For serving the soup.
• Soup bowls: To serve the soup and enjoy.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup is straightforward but involves layering flavors to ensure every spoonful packs a punch. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Prepare the aromatics: Start by finely chopping the garlic, ginger, and chilies. Bash the lemongrass to release its oils. Slice the carrot and onions into thin pieces for easy cooking.
2. Cook the base: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, chilies, lemongrass, onion, and carrot. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the liquids: Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, followed by the coconut milk. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
4. Season the soup: Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice to give the soup a savory, tangy depth. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.
5. Add the prawns: Once the soup is simmering and the flavors have melded together, add the prawns. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the prawns turn pink and are fully cooked.
6. Final touches: Just before serving, stir in some chopped cilantro or Thai basil for a fresh herbal note.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with additional fresh herbs or lime wedges, and serve hot. Optionally, you can add some rice noodles or crispy onions for extra texture.

Expert Tips

1. Adjust the spice: If you’re not a fan of very spicy food, you can reduce the number of chilies or remove the seeds from the chilies to control the heat.
2. Enhance the flavor: If you want the broth to be even richer, you can add a bit of sugar to balance the heat and acidity, or try a splash of lime zest for an extra citrus kick.
3. Use fresh prawns: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh prawns rather than frozen, as they will impart a better taste and a juicier bite.
4. Infuse longer for deeper flavor: Let the soup simmer a little longer (up to 30 minutes) if you want a deeper, more intense flavor from the aromatics.
5. Make it a meal: If you’d like to make this soup more filling, add some cooked rice noodles or serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup is an exciting, flavorful dish that combines the richness of coconut milk, the zing of fresh lime, and the satisfying heat of chili and ginger. It’s easy to prepare, requiring only a few basic ingredients and minimal equipment. Whether you’re seeking a light, zesty appetizer or a hearty meal to enjoy with family and friends, this soup delivers on taste and comfort, making it a standout choice in any recipe collection.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup

Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup is a flavorful, vibrant dish that combines fresh prawns with aromatic spices, making it a perfect option for a hearty meal. However, there are numerous variations you can experiment with to suit different preferences, dietary needs, or available ingredients.

1. Vegetarian Version: For those who prefer a plant-based meal, you can swap the prawns for a combination of tofu, chickpeas, or lentils. These ingredients add a hearty, protein-packed component to the soup while maintaining its delicious texture. Tofu, in particular, absorbs the spices beautifully, making it an ideal replacement for prawns.
2. Seafood Lover’s Twist: To elevate the flavor profile, consider adding a mix of other seafood such as scallops, mussels, or squid. These ingredients bring even more richness to the soup, and their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spiciness.
3. Spicier Heat: If you enjoy an extra punch of heat, you can increase the amount of chili or add fresh, finely chopped bird’s eye chilies. Another option is to incorporate a splash of hot sauce like sriracha or a spoonful of harissa paste, which would intensify the flavor and create a more fiery broth.
4. Creamy Variation: For a creamier texture, you can introduce coconut milk or cream to the broth. This will mellow the heat slightly while giving the soup a smooth, luxurious finish. The coconut milk pairs beautifully with the spicy, tangy elements and creates a rich and velvety soup.
5. Citrusy Kick: Adding a zest of lemon or lime at the end of cooking brings a refreshing zing to balance out the heat. Additionally, you can use lemon grass for an aromatic touch, enhancing the overall fragrance of the dish.
6. Herb Variations: While coriander is the traditional herb used in this soup, you could switch it up with Thai basil for a slightly different flavor profile or even mint for a more cooling effect to contrast the spice.

These variations allow for creative flexibility, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences or what you have available in your pantry. Each variation brings a new layer of flavor to the soup, ensuring that you’ll never tire of this delicious, versatile dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you have leftover Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup, storing it properly is essential to retain its flavors and ensure food safety. Here are some best practices for storing this dish:

1. Cool It Quickly: Before storing the soup, ensure it has cooled to room temperature. Rapid cooling helps to prevent the growth of bacteria. You can speed up the cooling process by stirring the soup occasionally or placing the pot in an ice bath.
2. Airtight Containers: Store the soup in airtight containers to prevent air exposure, which can affect the taste and texture. Glass containers are ideal as they don’t retain odors and are easy to clean.
3. Refrigeration: The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Be sure to store it as soon as it has cooled to avoid the growth of harmful bacteria. Make sure the soup is sealed tightly to avoid any contamination from other foods in the fridge.
4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you want to store the soup for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some room for expansion. Label the container with the date so you can track its storage time. Frozen prawn soup can typically last up to 3 months.
5. Reheating Tips: When reheating leftovers, do so slowly over low to medium heat on the stovetop. If you’ve frozen the soup, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This ensures even warming and maintains the best flavor and texture. When reheating, taste it again, as you may want to adjust the seasoning or add a little water to loosen up the broth if it thickens too much.

By following these simple practices, you can extend the shelf life of your Spicy Prawn Soup without sacrificing its delicious taste!

What Goes Well With Spicy Prawn Soup?

Pairing the right accompaniments with your spicy prawn soup can elevate the meal to an entirely new level. Here are some fantastic ideas to enhance your dining experience:

1. Crusty Bread or Naan: A thick slice of toasted sourdough or a piece of warm naan bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful broth. The bread provides a satisfying contrast to the heat and adds texture to the meal.
2. Rice: Serve the soup alongside a bowl of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. The rice soaks up the broth, balancing out the spiciness of the soup while making the dish more filling.
3. Crispy Spring Rolls: For an appetizer or side dish, crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp complement the soup beautifully. Their crunch provides a delightful contrast to the smooth soup.
4. Salad: A refreshing, crisp salad can serve as a great counterpoint to the richness of the soup. A Thai-inspired salad with lime, chili, and fresh herbs would pair especially well, balancing out the heat with its freshness.
5. Drinks: To wash down the spicy prawn soup, opt for a cold beverage like a chilled white wine (a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well), a fresh coconut water, or a tangy lime soda. For non-alcoholic options, a chilled iced tea with a dash of lemon is an excellent choice.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Serve a small bowl of pickled vegetables, such as pickled cucumbers or carrots, as a zesty and slightly tangy complement to the soup. The sharpness of the pickles cuts through the richness of the broth.

With these side dishes and pairings, your Spicy Prawn Soup can easily become the star of the meal or an exciting component of a larger feast.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup is a wonderfully versatile dish, brimming with bold flavors and the perfect balance of spice, heat, and depth. Whether you follow the original recipe or choose one of the many variations, the dish offers endless opportunities for personalization to suit your taste. Additionally, knowing how to store leftovers correctly ensures you can enjoy this delightful soup for days to come.

Pairing the soup with crusty bread, rice, or a refreshing salad can elevate the meal even further, making it a satisfying, balanced dish. And with the option to experiment with different proteins, heat levels, and textures, you’ll never get bored of this delicious soup. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable, and, most importantly, full of flavor-a meal that brings both comfort and excitement to the table!

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup?

Jamie Oliver’s spicy prawn soup typically requires prawns, fresh ginger, garlic, red chili, coconut milk, lime, soy sauce, fish sauce, vegetable stock, and fresh coriander. Additional ingredients include lemongrass, onions, and Thai red curry paste to give it a vibrant, aromatic flavor.

Can I Substitute Prawns With Other Seafood In The Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute prawns with other types of seafood such as scallops, squid, or even fish like cod or bass. The cooking times may vary depending on the seafood you choose, so be sure to adjust accordingly.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup Very Spicy?

The soup does have a bit of heat due to ingredients like fresh red chili, ginger, and Thai red curry paste. However, you can control the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of chili or curry paste according to your preference.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup Vegan?

Yes, you can make the soup vegan by substituting the prawns with tofu or other plant-based protein and using vegetable stock. Be sure to replace the fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan alternative.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup?

The soup is quick to prepare, typically taking around 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes prepping the ingredients and simmering the soup to let the flavors meld together.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup?

While you can freeze the soup, the texture of the prawns may change when reheated. If you plan to freeze it, it’s best to freeze the soup base (without the prawns), and add the prawns fresh when you reheat the soup.

What Type Of Side Dishes Go Well With Jamie Oliver’s Spicy Prawn Soup?

Jamie Oliver’s spicy prawn soup pairs well with light side dishes such as steamed jasmine rice, a fresh green salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. You could also serve it with a simple Asian-style noodle dish.

How Can I Make The Soup Less Rich?

To make the soup less rich, you can reduce the amount of coconut milk used or substitute it with a lighter alternative, such as a low-fat coconut milk or vegetable stock. Adjusting the balance of spices and acidity with lime can also help lighten the flavor.

Can I Prepare The Soup In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance. You can make the soup base ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat it up and add the prawns just before serving to avoid overcooking them.

Is There A Way To Make The Soup Spicier?

To make the soup spicier, you can increase the amount of fresh red chili or Thai red curry paste. You could also add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce, depending on how spicy you like it.