If you are craving a warm, comforting bowl that bursts with vibrant flavors and soothing textures, this Asian Style Shrimp and Noodle Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a beautiful harmony of tender shrimp, silky Chinese-style noodles, and an aromatic broth that balances lime, fish sauce, and fresh herbs perfectly. Each spoonful is an invitation to cozy up and savor something nourishing yet exciting. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this soup feels both special and effortlessly doable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Asian Style Shrimp and Noodle Soup Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Every element plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, from the umami-rich fish sauce to the bright, fresh herbs that add freshness and color. Let’s break down what you’ll be working with:
- 6 cups water: The base for a light and comforting broth that lets other flavors shine.
- 2 (10 fluid ounce) cans chicken broth: Adds depth and a savory backbone to the soup.
- Juice of 1/2 lime: Provides a tangy brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce: A salty, savory umami punch that’s essential in authentic Asian soups.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Brings a mild saltiness and color to the broth.
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five spice: Infuses warming notes of star anise, clove, and cinnamon for complexity.
- 1 peeled chunk of ginger (about the size of a teaspoon): Adds a gentle zing and warmth to the soup’s aromatic profile.
- 1 teaspoon chili pepper (optional): Perfect if you want a hint of heat to balance the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped): Introduces a sweet, slightly peppery herbaceous note.
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint (chopped): Adds cool freshness and lifts the overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped): Provides a bright, citrusy edge that complements shrimp beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Imparts a mild pungency and rounds out the taste.
- 1-2 tablespoons spring onions (chopped): Offers a subtle crunch and mild onion flavor as a finishing touch.
- 1/3 lb. Chinese style noodles (I used 1/3 of a package): These noodles soak up the broth perfectly and provide silky texture.
- 3/4 pound medium shrimp: The star protein, tender and quick-cooking to keep the soup light.
How to Make Asian Style Shrimp and Noodle Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
If your shrimp are frozen, just run them under cool water until they thaw quickly—no need to get fancy here. Peel and devein the shrimp to ensure a clean and tender bite every time. Setting them aside now means you can focus fully on building that flavor-packed broth.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Broth
Start by adding water and chicken broth to a large pot along with the juice from half a lime. Toss in the fish sauce, soy sauce, Chinese five spice, peeled ginger chunk, and the optional chili pepper if you enjoy a little heat. Crank the heat to high and watch as the aroma begins to fill your kitchen, promising something delicious.
Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs and Garlic
While the broth is heating up, chop your fresh basil, mint, and cilantro. Add these vibrant herbs directly into the pot, along with the minced garlic. These ingredients bring a fresh, bright layer to the soup that balances out the spice and salty depth of the broth. Set the chopped spring onions aside for garnishing later.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Once the broth starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium and add your Chinese style noodles. Let them cook for about five minutes or until they are delightfully soft but still hold their shape. These noodles soak up all the flavors you’ve layered so far, making every bite a celebration of taste and texture.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
Now it’s time to introduce the shrimp. Add them to the pot and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Because shrimp cook quickly, this step ensures they stay tender and juicy instead of turning rubbery. You want them just right to complement the silky noodles and rich broth.
Step 6: Final Touch and Serve
Remove the chunk of ginger—its job here is to infuse the soup with subtle warmth without overpowering. Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle generously with the chopped spring onions for a little crunch, and if you’d like, garnish with extra fresh mint and basil leaves. Your comforting bowl of Asian Style Shrimp and Noodle Soup Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Asian Style Shrimp and Noodle Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Spring onions are the classic finishing touch, adding not only crunch but a mild onion flavor that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and fresh herbs. Feel free to scatter extra mint and basil leaves over the top to boost the herbaceous notes; a wedge of lime on the side adds freshness and a touch of acidity for anyone who loves an extra squeeze.
Side Dishes
This soup shines on its own but also pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes to round out the meal. Think light and fresh—like a crisp cucumber salad or a small plate of pickled vegetables. Steamed bok choy or snap peas add a nice crunch and complement the Asian flavor palette perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the soup in individual bowls topped with edible flowers or microgreens for a pop of color. Alternatively, serve with a small bowl of chili oil or sriracha on the side so each guest can customize their heat level. You might also serve the noodles and broth separately, allowing everyone to combine ingredients at the table—which turns dinner into a fun, interactive experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Asian Style Shrimp and Noodle Soup Recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the noodles separate from the broth if you can, as they tend to soak up liquid and get mushy over time. Store shrimp and herbs in airtight containers, and combine everything when reheating for freshest taste and texture.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal for the noodles and herbs as their texture changes upon thawing. If you want to freeze, store the broth and shrimp separately without the noodles or fresh herbs. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat broth and shrimp, then freshly cook or add noodles and herbs before serving.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warmth. If the broth has thickened, simply add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. Re-add any fresh herbs and spring onions after reheating to preserve their crisp flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles in this soup?
Absolutely! While Chinese style noodles work wonderfully, rice noodles or even thin egg noodles can be substituted according to your preference. Just adjust cooking times to avoid mushiness.
Is this Asian Style Shrimp and Noodle Soup Recipe very spicy?
The soup is mildly spicy if you add the optional chili pepper, but you can easily control the heat by adjusting or omitting it. It’s designed to be flavorful and warming without overwhelming heat.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
You can make a vegetarian version by swapping shrimp for tofu and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Replace fish sauce with soy sauce or a vegan-friendly alternative to maintain the umami flavor.
How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Shrimp cook very quickly—about 2-3 minutes in hot broth until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking will make them rubbery, so keep an eye on them during the last step.
Can I prepare this soup in advance for a dinner party?
Yes! You can prepare the broth and chop herbs ahead of time. Cook the noodles and shrimp just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful for your guests.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like pulling together a warm bowl of Asian Style Shrimp and Noodle Soup Recipe to make you feel nurtured and satisfied. It’s a recipe that fills the kitchen with wonderful aromas and fills the heart with happy comfort. I encourage you to give this one a try—it’s simple, fresh, and endlessly enjoyable. Once you’ve tasted it, I promise it will become a favorite to come back to again and again.
