Coconut Crab Soup with Shrimp

If you’re craving something rich, creamy, and packed with bold, Southeast Asian-inspired flavors, this Coconut Crab Soup with Shrimp is a must-try. Imagine tender crab meat and succulent shrimp swimming in a velvety coconut broth infused with lemongrass, chili, and basil—pure comfort in a bowl.

The blend of creamy coconut milk, nutty peanut butter, and umami-packed fish sauce creates a deeply flavorful broth, while water chestnuts add a delightful crunch. This soup is the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet, making every spoonful absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love Coconut Crab Soup with Shrimp

This dish isn’t just another seafood soup—it’s an explosion of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to a tropical paradise.

Is this Coconut Crab Soup with Shrimp for you? Let’s see. Coconut Crab Soup with Shrimp is…

1. Ultra-Creamy & Indulgent: The coconut milk and peanut butter create a rich, velvety broth.
2. Packed with Bold Flavors: The lemongrass, chili paste, and fish sauce bring a delicious depth of taste.
3. A Perfect Balance of Heat & Sweet: The spice from the jalapeño and chili paste is mellowed by the creamy coconut milk.
4. Loaded with Seafood Goodness: Tender crab meat and juicy shrimp make this a seafood lover’s dream.
5. Quick & Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavors, this soup comes together in under an hour!

Ingredients in Coconut Crab Soup with Shrimp

Here’s what makes this soup so special:

Crab Meat: Sweet, tender, and packed with flavor, crab meat is the star of this soup.

Shrimp: Deveined and cooked to perfection, shrimp add a deliciously juicy bite.

Chicken Stock: Provides a flavorful base and enhances the depth of the broth.

Lemongrass Paste: Adds a bright, citrusy aroma that pairs beautifully with seafood.

Jalapeño: Brings a touch of heat without overpowering the dish.

Coconut Milk: The key to the soup’s creamy, luxurious texture.

Chunky Peanut Butter: Adds a nutty richness that makes the broth extra indulgent.

Chili Paste: Gives the soup a spicy kick and deep red color.

Fish Sauce: A classic umami booster that enhances all the other flavors.

Water Chestnuts: A crunchy contrast to the silky broth and tender seafood.

Basil Leaves: Thai basil is preferred for its slightly spicy, anise-like flavor, but regular basil works too!

How to Make Coconut Crab Soup with Shrimp

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the lemongrass paste and chili paste, stirring until fragrant.

Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Add the jalapeño and let the flavors infuse for a few minutes.

Add the Coconut Goodness: Stir in the coconut milk and peanut butter, whisking until smooth and fully incorporated.

Season the Soup: Add the fish sauce and water chestnuts, letting everything simmer to deepen the flavors.

Cook the Seafood: Gently add the shrimp and crab meat, cooking just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook!

Finishing Touches: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, herby finish.

Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra basil or a squeeze of fresh lime for a pop of brightness.

How to Serve Coconut Crab Soup with Shrimp

• With Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfect for soaking up every drop of that delicious broth.
• With Crispy Baguette Slices: Great for dipping and adding a crunchy element.
• Topped with Crushed Peanuts: For an extra nutty crunch.
• With a Side of Fresh Herbs: Extra basil, cilantro, or mint make a fantastic garnish.
• As a Standalone Dish: It’s hearty enough to enjoy all on its own!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 180mg

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Chop your ingredients in advance to make cooking a breeze.

Adjust the Spice Level: Like it spicier? Add extra chili paste or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Dietary Adjustments: Swap fish sauce for soy sauce if you need a vegetarian version.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the seafood.

Double the Batch: This soup freezes well—just leave out the shrimp and add them fresh when reheating.

Tips & Variations

• For Extra Creaminess: Blend half of the soup before adding the seafood for a thicker consistency.
• Secret Ingredient: A squeeze of fresh lime right before serving brightens all the flavors.
• Make It a Curry: Add a spoonful of red curry paste for an even richer depth of flavor.

Coconut Crab Soup with Shrimp is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a show-stopping soup to serve guests, this one’s a winner. Enjoy!