Seafood noodle soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the ocean to your bowl. This article of AK Food will walk you through the process of creating delicious dishes in your kitchen.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to expand your culinary repertoire, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to impress your family and friends with your skills.
What is seafood noodle soup?
Seafood noodle soup is a popular and versatile dish that combines the rich flavors of various seafood with comforting noodles in a savory broth. This culinary delight is enjoyed across many Asian cuisines, particularly in Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Singapore.
Seafood noodle soup can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Some versions may include a spicy element, such as chili oil or sliced chilies. In contrast, others might focus on a clearer, more delicate broth.
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a good balance of proteins from the seafood, carbohydrates from the noodles, and vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and herbs.
Seafood noodle soup
More information: Unraveling the secrets of perfect prawn noodles soup
Noodle varieties for seafood noodle soup
Rice Noodles
Thin rice noodles (vermicelli): These delicate noodles absorb the seafood broth well and provide a light texture.
Thin rice noodles
Flat rice noodles: Wider and chewier, these noodles add substance to the seafood noodle soup.
Flat rice noodles
Rice sticks: A medium-width option that balances well between texture and broth absorption.
Rice sticks
Egg Noodles
Thin egg noodles: These yellow noodles offer a slight chew and rich flavor, perfect for seafood noodle soup.
Thick egg noodles: Ideal for heartier seafood soups, providing a more substantial bite.
Egg noodles
Hong Kong-style egg noodles: Their curly texture adds an interesting dimension to the soup.
Hong Kong-style egg noodles
Wheat Noodles
Udon: These thick, chewy Japanese noodles hold up well in seafood broths.
Udon noodles
Ramen: Though typically used in pork-based soups, ramen noodles can complement seafood flavors nicely.
Ramen noodles
Lo mein: These versatile noodles work well in both broth-based and saucy seafood noodle dishes.
Lo mein
Glass Noodles
Mung bean noodles: Translucent and slippery, these noodles absorb flavors excellently in seafood noodle soup.
Mung bean noodles
Sweet potato noodles: Similar to mung bean noodles but with a slightly chewier texture.
Sweat potato noodles
Soba Noodles
Made from buckwheat, these Japanese noodles offer a nutty flavor that pairs well with lighter seafood broths.
Soba noodles
Shirataki Noodles
Low in calories and carbs, these yam-based noodles are a healthier alternative to seafood noodle soup.
Shirataki noodles
Vegetable Noodles
Zucchini noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini can substitute traditional noodles in seafood soup.
Zucchini noodles
Kelp noodles: These sea vegetable noodles add a unique texture and complement seafood flavors.
Kelp noodles
Ingredients of seafood noodle soup
Creating a delicious seafood noodle soup requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each component contributes to the overall flavor profile and texture of this beloved dish. Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients typically used in seafood noodle soup:
Seafood
- Shrimp or prawns
- Fish (such as cod, snapper, or halibut)
- Squid or cuttlefish
- Mussels or clams
- Crab meat
- Scallops
Seafood
Noodles
- Rice noodles (vermicelli, flat rice noodles, or rice sticks)
- Egg noodles
- Wheat noodles (udon or ramen)
- Glass noodles (mung bean or sweet potato noodles)
Broth base
- Seafood stock (made from fish bones, shrimp shells, and heads)
- Chicken or pork bones (for added depth)
- Water
Aromatics
- Garlic
- Shallots or onions
- Ginger
- Lemongrass (in Southeast Asian versions)
Aromatics
Vegetables
- Bean sprouts
- Bok choy or other leafy greens
- Carrots
- Mushrooms (shiitake, enoki, or button mushrooms)
- Celery
Vegetables
Herbs and garnishes
- Cilantro
- Green onions
- Thai basil (for Southeast Asian-style soups)
- Fried shallots or garlic
- Lime or lemon wedges
Herbs and garnishes
Seasonings
- Fish sauce
- Soy sauce
- Salt
- White pepper
- Sugar (to balance flavors)
More information: Spicy seafood noodle soup recipe
Additional flavorings
- Chili oil or fresh chilies (for heat)
- Sesame oil (for aroma)
- Rice vinegar or lime juice (for acidity)
Optional ingredients
- Quail eggs
- Tofu
- Seaweed
- Corn
- Bamboo shoots
Spices (for certain regional variations)
- Star anise
- Cinnamon stick
- Cloves
- Coriander seeds
Spices
Seafood noodle soup recipes
Prepare the seafood (15 minutes)
- Clean and devein the shrimp
- Cut squid into rings
- Cut fish into bite-sized pieces
- Clean mussels, discarding any that don’t close when tapped
- Refrigerate all seafood until needed
Make the broth (1 hour)
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat
- Add fish bones or shrimp shells and fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant
- Add 2L of water and bring to a boil
- Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, skimming off any foam
- Strain the broth and discard solids
- Return broth to the pot and keep warm
More information: Prawn wonton noodle soup: A bowl of Asian comfort
Prepare aromatics (5 minutes)
- In a small pan, heat 1 tbsp oil
- Fry minced garlic and chopped shallots until golden (about 2 minutes)
- Add to the simmering broth
Season the broth (5 minutes)
- Add fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar to the broth
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and white pepper as needed
- Keep the broth simmering
Cook the noodles (5-10 minutes)
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil
- Cook noodles according to package instructions
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking
- Set aside
Prepare the vegetables (5 minutes)
- Wash bean sprouts and leafy greens
- Blanch vegetables in boiling water for 30 seconds
- Drain and set aside
Cook the seafood (5 minutes)
- Bring the broth to a gentle simmer
- Add the prepared seafood
- Cook until just done (about 2-3 minutes for shrimp and squid, 3-4 minutes for fish and mussels)
- Be careful not to overcook
Assemble the seafood noodle soup (5 minutes)
- Place a portion of cooked noodles in each serving bowl
- Arrange cooked seafood and blanched vegetables on top of the noodles
- Ladle hot broth over the noodles, seafood, and vegetables
Garnish and serve (2 minutes)
- Top each bowl with cilantro and fried shallots
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side
Seafood noodle soup
Serving and customizing seafood noodle soup
Seafood noodle soup is a versatile dish that can be served and customized in numerous ways to suit different tastes and occasions. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to serve and personalize your seafood noodle soup for the best dining experience:
Serving suggestions
- Individual bowls
Serve the seafood noodle soup in large, deep bowls to maintain heat and allow easy mixing.
Arrange noodles at the bottom, topped with seafood and vegetables, then pour hot broth over.
Individual bowl
- Family-style
Present components separately: a large pot of broth, platters of cooked seafood and vegetables, and bowls of noodles.
Allow diners to assemble their bowls, creating an interactive dining experience.
- Garnish presentation
Offer a variety of garnishes in small dishes, such as fresh herbs, fried shallots, and lime wedges.
This allows diners to customize the seafood noodle soup to their liking.
More information: The ultimate shrimp noodles soup recipe you need
Customization options
- Broth variations
Clear: A light, refreshing seafood broth
Creamy: Add coconut milk for a richer texture
Spicy: Incorporate chili oil or sambal for heat
Tom yum style: Include lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and Thai chilies
Tom yum style
- Noodle choices
Rice noodles: For a lighter texture
Egg noodles: For a richer flavor
Udon: For a chewy texture
Zucchini noodles: For a low-carb option
- Seafood selections
Shrimp or prawns: A classic choice for seafood noodle soup
Fish: Use firm white fish like cod or halibut
Squid or octopus: For added texture
Mussels or clams: To enhance the oceanic flavor
Crab meat: For a touch of luxury
- Vegetable additions
Leafy greens: Bok choy, spinach, or watercress
Mushrooms: Shiitake, enoki, or button mushrooms
Bean sprouts: For added crunch
Corn: For a touch of sweetness
Serving tips
- Temperature
Serve the seafood noodle soup piping hot to enhance flavors and aromas.
Provide soup spoons and chopsticks for easy eating.
- Accompaniments
Offer side dishes like pickled vegetables or a simple salad to complement the soup.
Provide extra broth on the side for those who prefer a soupier dish.
Pickled vegetables
- Beverage pairings
Light beers or crisp white wines complement seafood noodle soup well.
Light beers and crisp white wines
For non-alcoholic options, try green tea or a refreshing lemongrass drink.
- Dietary accommodations
For gluten-free diets, use rice noodles and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.
For low-carb diets, substitute traditional noodles with zucchini or shirataki noodles.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our comprehensive “Seafood noodle soup guide at home” it’s clear that this versatile and delicious dish is well within reach of home cooks. From selecting the freshest ingredients to perfecting the broth and customizing your bowl, creating a restaurant-quality seafood noodle soup in your own kitchen is an achievable and rewarding culinary adventure.
For any inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us through the following channels:
Anh Kim Food Production Joint Stock Company (AK FOOD)
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Email: contact@akfood.com.vn
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