Jamie Oliver–Style Spicy Thai Prawn Noodle Soup

This recipe is inspired by Jamie Oliver’s relaxed, flavour-first cooking style. It is not an official Jamie Oliver recipe.

Ingredients

• 200 g raw king prawns, peeled and deveined
• 150 g rice noodles or egg noodles
• 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger, grated
• 1–2 red chillies, finely sliced (to taste)
• 1 tbsp red curry paste
• 400 ml coconut milk
• 750 ml hot vegetable or chicken stock
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• Juice of 1 lime
• Fresh coriander, to serve

How to Make Spicy Thai Prawn Noodle Soup

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic, ginger and chilli, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add the red curry paste and stir well to coat the aromatics. Pour in the coconut milk and stock, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for 10 minutes to develop flavour.

Add the noodles and prawns, cooking for 3–4 minutes until the prawns turn pink and the noodles are tender. Stir in the fish sauce and lime juice, then taste and adjust seasoning.

How to Get Thai Flavour Without Complication

This soup relies on layering simple ingredients rather than long cooking. Ginger, garlic, chilli and curry paste build depth, while coconut milk softens the heat. Lime juice at the end keeps the soup fresh and balanced.

What to Serve With Thai Prawn Noodle Soup

This soup is a complete meal on its own, but it also works well with prawn crackers, a crisp cucumber salad, or steamed greens. It’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or light lunch.

Tips for the Best Spicy Thai Noodle Soup

• Don’t overcook the prawns — they only need a few minutes
• Adjust chilli to your heat tolerance
• Use good-quality curry paste for maximum flavour
• Add lime juice at the end to keep flavours bright

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen prawns?

Yes. Thaw them fully and pat dry before adding to the soup so they cook evenly and don’t water down the broth.

Is this soup very spicy?

It can be as mild or spicy as you like. Reduce the chilli or curry paste for less heat, or add more for a fiery finish.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

The broth can be made ahead, but add prawns and noodles just before serving to avoid overcooking.