Thai-Inspired Curried Carrot Soup: A Cozy Maltese Treat

The Ultimate Soup Season Fix: Curried Carrot with a Thai Twist

As the cooler months settle in, there's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of soup to nourish both body and soul. This curried carrot soup with a Thai twist is a vibrant and healthy dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to embrace wholesome eating while enjoying bold, exotic flavors. Whether you're cooking at home or seeking inspiration for a restaurant menu in Malta, this recipe combines the sweetness of carrots with the richness of coconut milk and the complexity of Thai red curry paste for a truly satisfying experience.

Chef and acclaimed food writer Samin Nosrat describes this soup as “spicy, vibrant and inspired by Thai red curries.” The layers of flavor—thanks to the curry paste, creamy coconut milk, and savory fish sauce—create a delicious harmony that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of carrots. But what truly elevates this dish is the crunchy, umami-packed garnish, inspired by miang kham, a traditional Southeast Asian snack featuring peanuts, coconut, and chilies. This topping adds texture and depth, making every spoonful a delight.

Curried Carrot and Coconut Soup

Makes: About 2 liters
Perfect for: Cozy evenings, dinner parties, or a healthy lunch

Ingredients:

For the soup:

• 60ml coconut oil
• 3 shallots, diced
• One 5cm piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 lemongrass stalk, cut into 7.5cm pieces
• Kosher salt
• 1.4kg carrots, peeled and sliced 2cm thick
• 765g coconut milk
• 100g to 130g Thai red curry paste (adjust to taste)
• 3 tbsp fish sauce
• 720ml to 960ml chicken stock or water

For the garnish:

• 115g salted, dry-roasted peanuts
• 55g dried desiccated coconut flakes
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 8 small dried red chilies, such as chiles de árbol, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted
• 1 tbsp minced lemongrass
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 10 makrut lime leaves, thinly sliced (optional)
• Handful of Thai basil leaves
• 2 to 3 limes, quartered

Method:

1. Prepare the soup base:
   Preheat your oven to 150°C. In a large casserole, melt the coconut oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the shallots, ginger, lemongrass, and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the shallots are tender and slightly caramelized—about 18 minutes.

2. Build the flavors:
   Increase the heat to high and add the carrots, coconut milk, curry paste, fish sauce, and 720ml of stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then partially cover and reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook until the carrots are soft and tender, approximately 25 minutes.

3. Prepare the garnish:
   While the soup simmers, combine the peanuts, coconut flakes, fish sauce, chilies, melted coconut oil, minced lemongrass, sugar, and lime leaves (if using) in a medium bowl. Spread the mixture onto a baking tray in a single layer and bake for 18–20 minutes, stirring every 3 minutes after the first 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and transfer to a bowl immediately to prevent overcooking. Stir to combine and set aside.

4. Finish the soup:
   Remove the soup from heat and discard the lemongrass pieces. Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, purée in batches using a blender or food processor. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or curry paste to taste. Thin the soup with additional stock or water if necessary.

5. Serve with flair:
   Arrange the sliced Thai basil leaves, lime wedges, and peanut garnish on a platter. Serve the soup hot, allowing guests to customize their bowls with the crunchy topping and fresh lime for a burst of flavor.

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Why This Recipe Fits a Healthy Lifestyle

Malta’s growing focus on healthy eating and mindful living makes this curried carrot soup an excellent choice for anyone aiming to balance flavor with nutrition. Packed with beta-carotene from carrots, immune-boosting ginger, and the healthy fats of coconut milk, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing. The vibrant Thai spices also provide anti-inflammatory benefits, while the garnish adds protein and antioxidants from peanuts and chilies. Pair this soup with a fresh salad or whole-grain bread for a wholesome meal that aligns with Malta’s Mediterranean-inspired approach to healthy living.

Dining Inspiration for Malta’s Food Scene

Whether you're a restaurant owner or a home chef, consider how this recipe could be adapted to suit Malta's culinary landscape. Featuring fresh, locally sourced carrots and herbs, this dish could easily become a standout menu item or a favorite among health-conscious diners. Restaurants specializing in fusion cuisine might find this soup a perfect addition, offering patrons a taste of Southeast Asia while celebrating the island’s fresh ingredients.

For those exploring plant-based options, substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock and replace fish sauce with a vegan alternative, such as tamari or coconut aminos. This tweak makes the dish suitable for vegetarians and vegans without compromising its bold, layered flavors.

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A Taste of Global Cuisine with a Healthy Twist

From the comfort of your kitchen or the creativity of Malta’s thriving restaurant scene, this curried carrot soup is a celebration of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or enhance your menu with a unique offering, this recipe delivers on taste, health, and versatility. Embrace the soup season and let this dish warm you up in more ways than one.