Spicy seafood noodle soup recipe
When it comes to comfort food with a kick, spicy seafood noodle soup is an unbeatable choice. Bursting with flavors that span savory, spicy, and aromatic, this dish is a testament to the culinary creativity of Southeast Asian cuisine. In this article, AK Food will dive into the origins of this iconic soup, explore the key ingredients that make it so irresistible, and provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating the “masterpiece” at home.
What is spicy seafood noodle soup?
Spicy seafood noodle soup is a bold and flavorful dish that combines an array of fresh seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and fish, with tender noodles in a spicy, aromatic broth. This soup is known for its fiery kick, which comes from the use of chili peppers, chili oil, or spicy pastes like sambal or sriracha.
The spicy seafood noodle soup is often garnished with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or Thai basil, and served with lime wedges on the side for a bright, citrusy note. This dish is a popular choice for those who love bold, spicy flavors and appreciate the delicate textures of perfectly cooked seafood and noodles in a comforting, warming soup.
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Noodle variations for spicy seafood noodle soup
One of the great things about spicy seafood noodle soup is its versatility when it comes to noodle choices. Here are some popular noodle variations that you can use in your spicy seafood noodle soup:
- Rice noodles: Thin, flat rice noodles, such as vermicelli or pho noodles, are a classic choice for spicy seafood noodle soup. They have a delicate texture and absorb the flavors of the broth.
- Egg noodles: Thin egg noodles, like those used in wonton soup, can add a richer flavor and a slightly chewy texture to your spicy seafood noodle soup.
- Udon noodles: These thick, chewy Japanese wheat noodles can provide a heartier base for your spicy seafood noodle soup, standing up well to the bold flavors of the broth and seafood.
- Soba noodles: Made from buckwheat flour, soba noodles have a nutty flavor and a slightly firmer texture that can add an interesting dimension to your spicy seafood noodle soup.
- Glass noodles: Also known as cellophane noodles or bean thread noodles, these transparent, thin noodles made from mung bean starch have a slippery, gelatinous texture that can be a fun addition to your spicy seafood noodle soup.
- Ramen noodles: The curly, springy texture of ramen noodles can be a great choice for spicy seafood noodle soup, particularly if you’re looking for a more substantial noodle option.
Glass noodles also known as cellophane noodles
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Ingredients for Spicy Seafood Noodle Soup
Dive into the rich and bold flavors of spicy seafood noodle soup with this detailed recipe. Combining tender seafood, fragrant aromatics, and a spicy, savory broth, this dish is perfect for warming your soul and exciting your taste buds. Below is a step-by-step guide to creating this flavorful masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Seafood | 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined.
150g squid, cleaned and sliced into rings. 200g white fish fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces. |
Noodles | 200g of your preferred noodle type (rice noodles, egg noodles, udon, soba, glass noodles, or ramen noodles). |
Spicy elements | 2-3 red bird’s eye chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference).
1 tbsp chili oil. 1 tbsp sambal or sriracha paste. |
Aromatics | 2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised and cut into 3-inch pieces.
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced. 4 garlic cloves, minced. 2 shallots, thinly sliced. 4 kaffir lime leaves. |
Broth | 1-liter seafood or chicken stock.
Shrimp shells and fish bones (optional, for enhanced flavor). |
Herbs and garnishes | 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
1/2 cup Thai basil leaves 2 green onions, thinly sliced 1 cup bean sprouts 2 lime wedges 2 tbsp crispy fried shallots |
Seasonings | 2 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce 1 tsp oyster sauce Salt, to taste |
Tips for choosing good seafood
Choosing fresh and high-quality seafood is absolutely essential when preparing a perfect bowl of spicy seafood noodle soup. The freshness of the seafood not only enhances the flavor but also ensures the right texture—tender, sweet, and naturally satisfying. To craft a dish that truly delights, careful attention to the selection process is key.
Shrimp
Fresh shrimp should appear vibrant and free from black spots or discoloration. If the shrimp has an ammonia-like smell or any unusual markings, it’s a sign that the shrimp is no longer fresh. For convenience, frozen shrimp can be a good alternative, but it is crucial to ensure they have not been frozen for too long or show signs of freezer burn, such as dry patches or white spots.
Fresh shrimp should appear vibrant and free from black spots or discoloration
Squid
For squid, look for smooth, intact skin and a slightly firm, elastic texture when pressed. Fresh squid should emit a faintly sweet and pleasant smell, reminiscent of the sea. Avoid squid that feels slimy, sticky, or has turned dull or grayish in color, as these are clear indicators of spoilage.
Fish
If you’re using fish, whether filleted or whole, freshness is key. Fish fillets should feel firm and resilient when touched, with a glossy surface and no browning along the edges. If you’re purchasing a whole fish, check the eyes—they should be clear, bright, and slightly bulging. The skin should look shiny and vibrant without any discoloration or bruises. Lastly, ensure the fish smells clean and fresh, like the sea, without any sour or pungent odors.
Shellfish (if using):
For shellfish like clams, mussels, or oysters, live specimens are best. Their shells should be tightly closed or close promptly when tapped. Open shells that remain unresponsive indicate that the shellfish are no longer alive and should not be consumed. The shells should also be clean and free of cracks, while the meat inside should be plump and moist.
Shellfish should be tightly closed or close promptly when tapped
How to make spicy seafood noodle soup
Creating a delicious and aromatic spicy seafood noodle soup at home may seem like a daunting task, but with the right ingredients and a clear step-by-step guide, it’s easier than you think. This dish brings together the rich flavors of the ocean, the kick of spicy chilies, and the warmth of fragrant herbs and spices to create a truly comforting meal. Follow these steps to create a delicious and aromatic spicy seafood noodle soup in the comfort of your kitchen:
Prepare the broth
- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat.
- Add the bruised lemongrass, sliced ginger, minced garlic, sliced shallots, and kaffir lime leaves. Sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the seafood or chicken stock and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let the broth simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the noodles
- While the broth is simmering, prepare the noodles according to the package instructions.
- Drain the cooked noodles and divide them evenly between two serving bowls.
Prepare the seafood
- In a separate pan, heat some oil over medium-high heat.
- Stir-fry the sliced squid and fish fillet pieces until just cooked through.
- Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque.
Assemble the spicy seafood noodle soup
- Strain the aromatic broth into a clean pot and bring it back to a simmer.
- Add the chili oil, sambal or sriracha paste, fish sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce to the broth. Stir well and adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Place the cooked seafood on top of the noodles in the serving bowls.
- Pour the hot, spicy broth over the seafood and noodles.
Garnish and serve
- Top the spicy seafood noodle soup with chopped cilantro, Thai basil leaves, sliced green onions, bean sprouts, and crispy fried shallots.
- Serve the soup immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
Creating a delicious and aromatic spicy seafood noodle soup at home quite easy
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Cooking tips for spicy seafood noodle soup
To ensure that your spicy seafood noodle soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful cooking tips:
- Don’t overcook the seafood:
- Seafood cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it.
- Add the seafood to the soup just before serving, and cook it until it is done.
- Shrimp should be pink and opaque, while squid and fish should be tender and flake easily with a fork.
- Adjust the spiciness to your taste:
- The beauty of making spicy seafood noodle soup at home is that you can control the level of spiciness.
- Start with a smaller amount of chili peppers, chili oil, or chili paste, and gradually add more as you wait.
- Remember, you can always add more spice to have a better taste.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients:
- The key to a delicious spicy seafood noodle soup lies in the quality of its components.
- Choose fresh, firm seafood and crisp, vibrant vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- Using fresh herbs and aromatics will also make a significant difference in the overall taste of your soup.
- Let the broth simmer:
- To develop a rich, flavorful broth for your spicy seafood noodle soup, allow it to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes.
- This will give the aromatics and spices time to infuse the broth with their flavors, creating a more complex and satisfying soup base.
- Serve the soup hot:
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- Spicy seafood noodle soup is best enjoyed piping hot, as this helps to highlight the flavors and aromas of the dish.
- Serve the soup immediately after adding the seafood and garnishes to ensure the noodles remain tender and the seafood is ready to eat.
Cooking tips for spicy seafood noodle soup you should know
In conclusion, spicy seafood noodle soup is a beloved dish that showcases the bold and vibrant flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine. By following the tips and steps outlined in this spicy seafood noodle soup recipe, you can create your perfect bowl of this comforting and satisfying soup, tailored to your taste preferences. A steaming bowl of spicy seafood noodle soup is just a few simple steps away. Gather your ingredients, let your creativity shine, and savor the delightful flavors of this iconic Southeast Asian classic.
For any inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us through the following channels:
Anh Kim Food Production Joint Stock Company (AK FOOD)
- Phone number: +84 28 3815 9696.
- Email: contact@akfood.com.vn.
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