Dive into a world of flavor with this vibrant and nourishing Mixed Vegetable Coconut Milk Soup. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or a healthy addition to any meal plan. The creamy coconut milk base beautifully complements the sweetness of the vegetables, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. Imagine the rich aroma of simmering vegetables infused with fragrant spices, all culminating in a bowl of wholesome deliciousness. This soup is not only satisfying but also packed with essential vitamins and nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy preparation times. This Mixed Vegetable Coconut Milk Soup is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. For a step-by-step guide to creating this culinary masterpiece, let's move on to the recipe instructions below. Prepare to be amazed by how quickly and easily you can whip up this flavourful and healthy soup!
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Mortar and pestle
- Pot
Ingredients
- Chinese garlic: 20 cloves
- Dried chilies: 40 (adjust to taste)
- Bitter gourd
- MSG
- Fish sauce
- Tamarind juice or lime
- Cabbage
- Young corn
- Okra
- Bell peppers
- Winged beans
- Cha-om (Acacia Pennata)
- Bamboo shoots (optional)
- Coconut milk: 700ml
- Thai shallots: 6
- Shrimp paste: 1/2 tablespoon
- Salt
- Sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Aromatic Chili Paste
- Fry 20 cloves of Chinese garlic until golden brown. Fry dried chilies (adjust amount to your spice preference). When bitter gourd is slightly yellow, remove and set aside.
- Pound the fried chilies until finely ground. Add the fried garlic and pound until fine.
- Season the chili paste with fish sauce, MSG, tamarind juice (or lime juice), and adjust to taste. Add warm water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Pound 6 Thai shallots and 1/2 tablespoon of shrimp paste.
Step 2. Prepare the Vegetables and Coconut Milk Base
- Cut cabbage, young corn, okra, bell peppers, winged beans, and cha-om into bite-sized pieces. Prepare bamboo shoots (optional) by removing the top and bottom and slicing.
- In a pot, heat coconut milk (700ml). Add the pounded shallots and shrimp paste mixture. Add salt, sugar, and seasoning powder.
Step 3. Boil the Vegetables in Coconut Milk
- Bring the coconut milk to a boil. Add the vegetables that require longer cooking times first (corn, chili, etc).
- Once the bell peppers and corn start to soften, add the remaining vegetables (cabbage, okra, winged beans, cha-om).
- Simmer until vegetables are cooked through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the boiled vegetables in coconut milk hot with the garlic chili paste.
Read more: Thai Beef Stew with Rice: A Melts-in-Your-Mouth Recipe
Tips
- Don't over-fry the garlic in the chili paste; it should be golden brown, not burnt.
- Adjust the amount of chili peppers to your preferred level of spiciness.
- This dish pairs well with boiled eggs or omelets.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy.
- Use freshly pressed coconut milk for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-800
- Fat: 40-55g
- Carbs: 50-70g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of milk instead of coconut milk?
While coconut milk provides the best creamy texture and flavor, you can experiment with other plant-based milks like almond milk or cashew milk. The taste will be different, but still delicious!
2. How can I adjust the spiciness level?
Control the heat by adjusting the amount of chili paste you add. Start with less and add more to your liking. You can also use milder chili paste or add a pinch of sugar to balance the spice.
This simple recipe for Delicious Coconut Milk Boiled Vegetables with Garlic Chili Paste is a testament to how flavorful and satisfying a healthy meal can be. Enjoy the vibrant colors, the rich textures, and the delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors. From now on, make this your go-to recipe for a quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty weeknight dinner!