Chilled Coconut Lemongrass Soup

Ingredients

• 2 cans (800ml) coconut milk 2 cans (800ml) coconut milk
• 4 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped 4 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
• 2 inches ginger, sliced 2 inches ginger, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh Thai basil, for garnish Fresh Thai basil, for garnish
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 28g, 24g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 14g, 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, combine the coconut milk, lemongrass, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. 3.
   Remove the pot from heat and let the soup cool to room temperature.
4. 4.
   Once cooled, strain the soup to remove the lemongrass, ginger, and garlic.
5. 5.
   Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and chili flakes (if using). Season with salt to taste.
6. 6.
   Cover the soup and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until well chilled.
7. 7.
   Before serving, garnish with fresh Thai basil and cilantro.
8. 8.
   Serve the Chilled Coconut Lemongrass Soup in chilled bowls for a refreshing experience.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Bruise the lemongrass stalks by lightly pounding them with a rolling pin or the back of a knife to release their flavors.
• Thai basil — Use fresh Thai basil leaves for the best flavor. If unavailable, regular basil can be used as a substitute.
• Coconut milk — Shake the cans of coconut milk before opening to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a few slices of fresh chili to the soup while simmering.
• Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the soup by adding more or less brown sugar and lime juice, according to your preference.
• For a heartier version, add cooked rice noodles or shredded chicken to the soup before chilling.
• Garnish the soup with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
• Serve the Chilled Coconut Lemongrass Soup with a side of steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Chilled Coconut Lemongrass Soup chilled in bowls or small glasses as an appetizer or light lunch. It pairs well with fresh spring rolls or grilled shrimp skewers.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the soup with a drizzle of coconut milk and a sprinkle of chili flakes. Serve it in chilled bowls or glasses, and decorate with a lemongrass stalk for an elegant touch.