Seafood Noodle Soup – Comforting Asian-Style Broth with Shrimp, Squid & Mussels
Introduction Paragraph
If you’re a seafood lover, Seafood Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that brings the ocean to your bowl. This Asian-inspired noodle soup is filled with the briny sweetness of shrimp, the delicate texture of squid, and the bold flavor of mussels, all swimming in a deeply savory, aromatic broth. With soft wheat noodles and fresh herbs rounding out the dish, this soup is nourishing, light yet satisfying, and perfect for chilly evenings, quick lunches, or when you just want something soothing and homemade.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 3–4
Ingredients List
For the Broth:
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt to taste
For the Soup:
- 150g (5 oz) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 150g (5 oz) squid, cleaned and cut into rings
- 8–10 mussels, cleaned and de-bearded
- 200g (7 oz) wheat noodles or rice noodles
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1 cup baby bok choy or napa cabbage
- 2 spring onions, sliced
- 1 fresh chili (optional), sliced
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Chili oil or sriracha, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat sesame and neutral oil. Add garlic, ginger, and onion. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Why this matters: This aromatic base builds layers of flavor and gives the broth a comforting, savory depth.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Pour in seafood or chicken broth. Add soy sauce, fish sauce, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
Why this matters: Simmering helps marry the umami-rich seasonings with the broth for maximum depth.
Step 3: Cook the Seafood
Add shrimp, squid, and mussels. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until seafood is just cooked and mussels have opened. Discard any unopened mussels.
Why this matters: Cooking seafood gently prevents it from turning rubbery and keeps it juicy and flavorful.
Step 4: Add Noodles and Vegetables
Add noodles and carrots. Cook for another 3–5 minutes or until noodles are tender. Add bok choy in the final minute to keep it bright and crisp.
Why this matters: Adding noodles and vegetables last ensures everything is cooked perfectly without becoming mushy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with spring onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, chili slices, and a drizzle of chili oil.
Why this matters: Fresh toppings add brightness, spice, and extra texture—enhancing the overall experience.
Suggested Add-ons or Toppings List
- Soft-boiled egg halves
- Fried shallots
- Enoki or shiitake mushrooms
- Bean sprouts
- Crushed black pepper or toasted sesame seeds
Health Benefits Section
- Shrimp & mussels – High in protein and low in fat
- Squid – Rich in selenium and vitamin B12
- Garlic and ginger – Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting
- Bok choy – Packed with vitamin C and calcium
- Broth-based soup – Hydrating and easy on digestion
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes! Just thaw completely before adding and adjust cook time slightly.
2. What noodles work best?
Wheat noodles, rice noodles, or even udon work beautifully. Use what you have.
3. Is it spicy?
Not by default, but adding chili oil or sliced chilies gives it a lovely kick.
4. Can I make the broth ahead of time?
Absolutely! The broth can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be! Use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Nutritional Information Table (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 410 |
Protein | 28g |
Fat | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 45g |
Fiber | 3g |
Net Carbs | 42g |
Approximate values. Adjust based on noodles and toppings used.
Diet Tags or Labels
High-Protein • Light Meal • Dairy-Free • One-Pot • Asian-Inspired • Pescatarian • Gluten-Free Option
Conclusion
Seafood Noodle Soup is a soul-warming bowl of comfort that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh seafood in a delicate yet flavorful broth. With silky noodles and vibrant garnishes, it’s both satisfying and easy to make at home. Give this recipe a try when you’re craving something healthy, warming, and packed with flavor. Don’t forget to save, pin, or share it with your fellow seafood lovers!