Khao Soi is a warm and rich Thai noodle soup that makes you feel cozy inside. It’s filled with soft egg noodles, spicy coconut curry broth, and topped with crunchy fried noodles!
This dish is like a hug in a bowl! I love how each spoonful is a little adventure of flavors. Perfect for chilly days or any time you need a little comfort food pick-me-up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: Fresh wide egg noodles are best for this dish. If you can’t find them, dried egg noodles or rice noodles can work as good substitutes. Just cook according to package instructions.
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs give the best flavor, but boneless chicken breasts will also do. For a vegetarian option, use tofu or mushrooms instead!
Curry Paste: Red curry paste adds depth. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use yellow curry paste, or even make your own by blending spices like cumin and coriander.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives a rich taste. If you want to lighten it up, use light coconut milk or a nut milk, but keep in mind it won’t be as creamy.
Fish Sauce: This adds umami to the dish. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, try soy sauce or tamari as a substitute. A sprinkle of sea salt can also add flavor.
How Do You Get the Most Flavor from the Broth?
Making the broth is crucial to the success of Khao Soi. Follow these steps for optimal flavor:
- Start by heating oil and sautéing garlic, ginger, and shallots until they’re soft and fragrant. This builds the flavor base.
- Add the curry paste and spices right after; cook until aromatic, which helps release the oils and flavors.
- When you simmer the chicken, do it slowly to let the chicken absorb the spices. This also creates a rich, savory broth.
Don’t rush the simmering process—aim for a gentle boil so the chicken turns out tender and juicy!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Khao Soi?
Presentation makes a big difference! Here are some tips:
- Serve the noodles in bowls first, then ladle the hot curry broth over the top. This keeps the noodles from getting soggy.
- Finish with a handful of crispy fried noodles for an enjoyable crunch.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, which add freshness and brightness to the dish.
Feel free to mix in pickled mustard greens or sliced onions for additional flavors and textures—this balance enhances your Khao Soi experience!
How to Make Khao Soi (Northern Thai Coconut Curry Noodle Soup)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) egg noodles (preferably fresh wide egg noodles)
- 500g (1 lb) chicken thighs or drumsticks, bone-in and skin-on for more flavor
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 400ml (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 600ml (2.5 cups) chicken stock or water
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- Crispy fried egg noodles (made from fried dried egg noodles or store-bought crunchy noodles)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Pickled mustard greens or sliced red onions (optional)
- Chili oil or chili flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of preparation time and another 40 minutes for cooking. Allow some extra time for cooling and serving, making the total time around 1 hour. Just enough time to enjoy the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broth Base:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced shallots. Sauté them until they become fragrant and soften, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the Curry Flavors:
Stir in the red curry paste, curry powder, and turmeric powder. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes aromatic and the flavors meld together beautifully.
3. Combine the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs or drumsticks to the pot, stirring well to coat the pieces with the curry paste mixture. This helps infuse the chicken with fantastic flavors right from the start.
4. Create the Broth:
Pour in the coconut milk and chicken stock. Give everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
5. Shred the Chicken:
After simmering, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Let it cool for a few minutes then shred the meat off the bones, discarding the bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot with the broth.
6. Season the Soup:
Season your curry soup with fish sauce, palm sugar, and salt to taste. Take a moment to adjust the seasoning balance—make it salty, sweet, and just the right amount of spicy, tailored to your liking.
7. Cook the Noodles:
While the soup is bubbling away, cook the egg noodles in boiling water according to the package instructions until they are just tender. Drain the noodles and divide them into serving bowls.
8. Assemble the Dish:
Ladle the hot chicken curry soup generously over the cooked noodles in each bowl, ensuring everyone gets a good serving of that delicious broth.
9. Add Toppings:
Top each bowl with a hearty handful of crispy fried noodles for a satisfying crunch. This makes your Khao Soi not only tasty but fun to eat!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro and serving lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish. A splash of lime enhances the flavors wonderfully.
11. Optional Serving Ideas:
For an extra flavor boost, consider serving with pickled mustard greens, sliced red onions, or drizzle a bit of chili oil or sprinkles of chili flakes for those who enjoy a spicier kick!
Enjoy your authentic Northern Thai Khao Soi, brimming with creamy coconut curry, tender chicken, and delightful texture contrasts. Each bite is a taste of Thailand!
Can I Use Different Proteins in Khao Soi?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can use beef, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times according to the protein you choose to ensure it’s cooked through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like heat, consider adding chopped fresh chilies to the broth or sprinkle some chili flakes directly into your bowl when serving. You can also use a spicier red curry paste or add a dash of chili oil for extra flavor.
Can I Prepare Khao Soi in Advance?
Yes, you can make the broth and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store the soup and noodles separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and cook the noodles fresh for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Khao Soi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. If the noodles have absorbed too much broth, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen it up.