Spicy Shrimp Soup

This Spicy Shrimp Soup is inspired by the vibrant flavors of Ecuador, combining seafood with warm spices and fresh herbs. It features plump shrimp, jalapeños, garlic, and a hint of lime—all simmered in a comforting broth and served over white rice.

It’s a wonderful choice when you’re craving something cozy yet light, and it comes together quickly without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re looking for a soul-warming meal on a chilly evening or a dinner that dazzles with bold flavor, this dish has you covered.

Full Recipe

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

• 1 cup tomato sauce

• 2 jalapeños, divided (1 sliced from the ribs/seeds, 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)

• Cooked white rice, for serving

• Chopped fresh cilantro, for serving

Directions:

1. Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic, then reduce heat slightly and sauté until light golden, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in flour and cook for 1 more minute.

3. Add tomato sauce and stir well to blend with the flour-butter mixture.

4. Pour in chicken stock, seafood stock, sliced jalapeño (without seeds), bay leaves, oregano, salt, thyme, and white pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium. Partially cover and simmer gently for 30 minutes.

5. Discard bay leaves and jalapeños. Add juice of half a lime (or more to taste) and season with additional salt if needed.

6. Bring soup to a light boil and add shrimp. Cook until pink and opaque, about 1-2 minutes.

7. Serve soup over cooked rice, topped with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños. Offer lime wedges on the side.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 289 kcal per serving
Servings: 4 servings

Origins and Inspiration Behind Spicy Shrimp Soup

Spicy Shrimp Soup is a dish with roots in Latin American coastal cuisine, particularly inspired by Ecuadorian and Peruvian traditions where fresh seafood is abundant and flavor is king. This version is a home-cooked take on the traditional “encebollado de camarón” or seafood stews that blend heat, acidity, and herbs. The recipe balances boldness with approachability, perfect for those who enjoy vibrant, spicy flavors with a comforting, warming finish.

This soup reflects the spirit of dishes typically found in beach towns or coastal homes, where shrimp is often caught fresh and added to a pot of aromatic broth filled with herbs, citrus, and spice. Though it’s tailored to Western kitchens with accessible ingredients and gluten-free adaptability, its soul remains deeply rooted in Latin culinary heritage.

Why This Dish Works

What makes this Spicy Shrimp Soup exceptional is the careful layering of flavors. First, aromatic shallots and garlic create a fragrant base. The broth is enriched with both chicken and seafood stock for depth, then brightened by tomato sauce and lime juice. Jalapeños contribute a dynamic spiciness that can be adjusted based on preference, and the fresh cilantro at the end provides a refreshing counterpoint to the heat.

A key element is the short cooking time for shrimp. They are added at the end to ensure they remain plump, tender, and juicy—never overcooked or rubbery. Combined with the subtle acidity from lime and the richness of the butter base, the result is a well-balanced, multi-dimensional soup that’s exciting yet comforting.

Cultural Relevance of Shrimp Soup

In many Latin cultures, shrimp-based soups and stews are more than just meals—they’re traditional remedies and celebrations. In Ecuador, for instance, shrimp soups are served to help with hangovers, believed to “revive the body” thanks to their spice, salt content, and hearty ingredients. In coastal Mexican cuisine, shrimp soup is a staple during Lent, when seafood replaces meat.

This Spicy Shrimp Soup draws from these cultural notes while offering a globally friendly format. It’s the kind of dish that reminds us how food connects people across geography, bringing stories and traditions to our tables no matter where we live.

Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Notes

Beyond its incredible taste, this soup brings a host of health benefits. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein and essential nutrients like selenium, B12, and iodine. The use of fresh garlic and jalapeños offers potential anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting properties, while lime juice adds a burst of vitamin C.

Importantly, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. By using a gluten-free flour to build the roux and carefully selecting stock brands, the soup avoids common gluten traps without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Additionally, it’s lower in carbohydrates when served without rice or with a small portion. For those on a low-carb or keto diet, you can swap the rice for cauliflower rice or simply enjoy the soup on its own.

Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas

Spicy Shrimp Soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to presentation. Traditionally, it’s served over fluffy white rice which absorbs the rich broth, transforming each spoonful into a satisfying bite. However, it can also be accompanied by crusty gluten-free bread, warm tortillas, or even fried plantains for a more tropical experience.

A side of avocado slices can bring creaminess and a cooling contrast to the heat. For drinks, consider pairing this soup with a light lager, sparkling water with lime, or even a chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño to complement the citrus and herb notes.

For a dinner party, serve it as a starter in small bowls garnished with microgreens, or turn it into the main course with larger portions and hearty sides. The colors and aromas of this dish make it naturally appealing, so minimal presentation effort is required.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This soup stores very well, making it a great meal prep option. The base can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. For best results, store the cooked shrimp separately and add them when reheating to prevent overcooking.

To freeze, cool the soup completely and transfer it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. Again, add fresh shrimp during reheating if freezing the soup base only. This method ensures the integrity of the shrimp remains intact.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is adaptable for a variety of dietary preferences. For a pescatarian version, simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can also add other types of seafood like scallops, clams, or firm white fish chunks for a mixed seafood soup.

If jalapeños are too spicy, substitute with milder green chiles or remove the seeds and membranes. Conversely, if you love heat, try adding habaneros or a splash of hot sauce.

Vegetables like diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even corn can be added to bulk up the dish and increase fiber content. Coconut milk can be stirred in for a creamier, tropical variation reminiscent of Caribbean or Thai soups.

Audience and Occasion Fit

This soup is a crowd-pleaser that suits multiple occasions. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party and fast enough for a weeknight meal. Because it’s naturally gluten-free and easily adjustable for various spice levels, it’s suitable for both adventurous eaters and those with dietary needs.

It’s especially appreciated during cooler months or rainy evenings when something warm, hearty, and nourishing hits the spot. That said, it works year-round due to its bright citrus elements and fresh herb finish. It can be part of a summer seafood night or a cozy winter supper alike.

Cooking Tips from the Pros

• Always use raw, uncooked shrimp. Pre-cooked shrimp will become rubbery if simmered again in soup.

• Don’t skip the lime at the end—it brings the whole dish to life and balances the richness of the broth.

• If possible, let the soup sit for 10–15 minutes before serving. The flavors will deepen and meld beautifully.

• Chop ingredients ahead of time to ensure a smooth cooking process. This recipe comes together quickly once the heat is on.

• If serving to guests, garnish bowls individually with cilantro, lime wedges, and a few jalapeño slices for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Conclusion

Spicy Shrimp Soup is more than a recipe—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, coastal traditions, and adaptable home cooking. Whether you’re inspired by Latin cuisine or simply love a good seafood soup with a kick, this dish delivers on all fronts. It’s easy to prepare yet rich in taste, comforting yet fresh, and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

By incorporating everyday pantry ingredients with fresh produce and herbs, you can transform your kitchen into a vibrant, flavor-filled space. This soup reminds us that cooking doesn’t need to be complicated to be meaningful or memorable. Add it to your recipe box, and it just might become your new favorite.