Shrimp soup

Shrimp and Vegetable Soup – An explosion of flavors in every bowl

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 2

If you're looking for a simple yet incredibly tasty recipe, I invite you to discover this shrimp and vegetable soup, which combines the delicate flavors of seafood with the freshness of vegetables. It's a quick recipe, perfect for a light meal that's full of flavor. Here's how to prepare it:

Short history

Shrimp soup is a cherished dish in many cuisines, symbolizing creativity and the joy of experimenting in the kitchen. With deep roots in culinary tradition, this soup can be adapted in countless ways, making it ideal for cooking enthusiasts who want to explore their skills. Over the years, many chefs have learned to combine simple ingredients to create sophisticated dishes, and this recipe is no exception.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious soup, you will need the following ingredients, which are easy to find and add a touch of freshness:

- 200 grams of fresh shrimp
- One-third of a carrot, cut into sticks
- 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh celery root
- One small onion (shallot type)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- One teaspoon of sweet paprika
- One tablespoon of natural vegetable broth (homemade if possible)
- One tablespoon of soy sauce
- One teaspoon of oyster sauce
- Salt, to taste
- A pinch of dried and crushed chili pepper
- 50 ml of dry white wine
- One teaspoon of flour
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped, for serving

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the shrimp: If you have shrimp with shells, start by washing them well. If you have time, you can boil the whole shrimp to extract all the flavors. In this case, leave them with the shell. Start by adding water to a large pot and bring it to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt, paprika, and chili to flavor the water.

2. Boiling the shrimp: When the water is boiling, add the shrimp and let them cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. This process will intensify the flavor of the soup. Once done, remove them from the water and let them cool slightly before peeling.

3. Preparing the vegetables: In the same water you boiled the shrimp, add the chopped vegetables (carrot and celery) and let them boil for about 5-8 minutes until they become slightly tender but still crunchy. It is important not to overcook them to maintain an al dente texture.

4. Adding flavors: Meanwhile, finely chop the onion and garlic. In a separate pan, heat a little olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until golden. Add the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing well to combine the flavors.

5. Combining the ingredients: Add the onion and garlic mixture to the pot with the vegetables, along with the peeled shrimp. Pour in the white wine and let everything boil for 2-3 minutes so that the flavors blend perfectly. Here you can adjust the seasoning by adding salt or pepper to taste.

6. Thickening the soup: Mix one teaspoon of flour with a little cold water to form a paste. Add this mixture to the soup and bring it to a brief boil, stirring constantly. This trick will give the soup a slightly creamy consistency without making it too thick.

7. Serving: Turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley to the soup, stirring gently. Serve the soup hot, with lightly toasted bread slices on the side. You can also drizzle a little olive oil on top for an even more intense flavor.

Useful tips

- Sourcing ingredients: Use fresh shrimp, preferably from local or reliable sources. Frozen shrimp are a good option, but make sure they are of high quality.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the shrimp with tofu or mushrooms and add vegetable broth instead of water.
- Flavor enhancements: Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as basil or dill, to add a unique touch to your soup.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This shrimp soup is not only delicious but also healthy. One serving contains about 250 calories, with low fat content and high in protein. Shrimp are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health, while the vegetables add essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- What can I add for extra flavor? You can add freshly grated ginger or a few slices of fresh chili for a spicier taste.
- How can I store the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It is recommended to keep the shrimp and vegetables separate from the liquid to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Serving recommendations

This shrimp soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a glass of dry white wine, which will complement the delicate flavors of the dish. You can also try adding a few slices of lemon for an even fresher taste.

I encourage you to try this shrimp and vegetable soup recipe, enjoy every step of the process, and experiment with your favorite flavors. It can truly become a beloved dish in your kitchen!