Name: Spicy Shrimp Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup butter; 1 large shallot, finely chopped; 5 cloves garlic, pressed or minced; 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour; 3 cups chicken stock; 2 cups seafood stock (Imagine brand recommended); 1 cup tomato sauce; 2 jalapeños, divided (1 sliced with ribs and seeds removed, 1 sliced into rings); 3 small bay leaves; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon white pepper; 3/4 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 limes (1 cut in half, 1 cut into wedges); For serving: cooked white rice, chopped fresh cilantro

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup offers a satisfying blend of heat, tanginess, and savory depth, all in a light and nourishing broth. It’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients, yet the flavors are complex and well-balanced. The addition of cooked rice and fresh cilantro makes it a filling and complete meal that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients

1/4 cup butter
1 large shallot, finely chopped
5 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
1 Tablespoon gluten-free flour
3 cups chicken stock
2 cups seafood stock (Imagine brand recommended)
1 cup tomato sauce
2 jalapeños, divided (1 sliced with ribs and seeds removed, 1 sliced into rings)
3 small bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
3/4 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 limes (1 cut in half, 1 cut into wedges)

For serving: cooked white rice, chopped fresh cilantro

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped shallot and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the pressed garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the gluten-free flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and seafood stock, making sure no lumps form.
Add the tomato sauce, jalapeños with ribs and seeds removed, bay leaves, oregano, salt, thyme, and white pepper. Stir well and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the soup to slightly thicken.
Add the jumbo shrimp and lime halves to the pot. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the lime halves and bay leaves.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and jalapeño rings for added heat and color. Squeeze lime wedges over each bowl just before eating.

Servings and Timing

Serves 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 40 minutes

Variations

Heat level: Adjust the number of jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce to increase spiciness.
Seafood: Add crab meat or scallops for a richer seafood flavor.
Vegetables: Include diced bell peppers or corn for more texture and color.
Rice: Substitute cooked rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through. Avoid boiling to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw the shrimp completely before adding to the soup.

What if I don’t have seafood stock?

You can substitute with additional chicken stock or vegetable stock.

Can I make this soup less spicy?

Remove the jalapeño seeds and reduce the number of jalapeños used.

How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?

Add more stock or water to thin the soup to your desired consistency.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Yes, but add shrimp only when reheating to prevent overcooking.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, provided you use gluten-free flour and stocks.

Can I freeze this soup?

It’s best to freeze the soup without shrimp, adding them fresh when reheating.

What can I serve alongside this soup?

Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers with rice?

Store soup and rice separately to keep the rice from getting mushy.

Can I use lime juice instead of fresh lime wedges?

Fresh lime wedges provide better flavor and freshness, but lime juice can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

Spicy Shrimp Soup is a vibrant, warming dish that delivers a perfect balance of spice, tang, and savory seafood goodness. It’s easy to prepare and versatile enough for weeknight dinners or when you want a comforting yet exciting meal. Paired with rice and fresh cilantro, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.