No Bake Chicken Soup
Description
This vibrant soup blends the bright, aromatic notes of lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves with the savory depth of chicken stock. Despite the title, it is a stovetop creation that requires no baking, offering a quick yet sophisticated meal. The broth is infused with fresh herbs and a hint of heat from Thai chili paste, balancing perfectly with the sweetness of shrimp and earthiness of straw mushrooms. Its a comforting bowl that feels both light and satisfying, ideal for busy weeknights or when you crave something with complex, layered flavors. The combination of lime juice and fish sauce adds a tangy umami kick that wakes up the palate, making this dish a refreshing alternative to heavy, creamy soups.Ingredients
Directions
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Wash, peel, and de-vein the shrimp. Save the shells.
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Wash the shrimp again, drain, pat dry, cover, and refrigerate.
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If using fresh lemongrass, cut each stick into three 2-inch pieces starting from the rounded bottom end. Discard the straw-like top. Lightly crush the pieces.
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In a large pot, combine the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chicken stock, and shrimp shells.
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Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Lower the heat and simmer gently for 20 minutes to infuse the flavors.
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Strain the stock into a clean pot, discarding the solids (lemongrass, leaves, and shells).
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Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and Thai chili paste. Adjust seasoning to taste.
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Drain the straw mushrooms and add them to the stock.
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If using fresh mushrooms, quarter them, boil in lightly salted water for 1 minute, drain, and then add to the stock.
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Cut the green chilies into fine rounds. Wash and dry the cilantro.
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Just before serving, heat the soup until it begins to boil.
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Drop the peeled shrimp into the boiling soup.
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Cook on medium heat for 2 minutes, or just until the shrimp turn opaque.
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Garnish with the sliced chilies and cilantro leaves.
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Serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4 servings
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1048.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 45.0g70%
- Saturated Fat 12.1g61%
- Cholesterol 492.9mg165%
- Sodium 883.2mg37%
- Total Carbohydrate 24.6g9%
- Dietary Fiber 7.3g30%
- Sugars 6.7g
- Protein 125.5g251%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: The soup base (without shrimp) can be prepared several hours ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before adding the shrimp.
Ingredient Substitution: If Thai chili paste is unavailable, you can substitute with 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper, 1/4 tsp. sugar, and 1/2 tsp. oil for a similar heat profile.
Tip: Do not overcook the shrimp, as they will become tough. They cook very quickly once added to the hot broth.
Variation: For a richer broth, you can use a portion of seafood stock instead of chicken stock.